Fashionista NOW: Mandarin Collar Trend For CNY 2015 Fashion Inspiration

Credit | Uli C.

Something about the mandarin collar captivates me. With the lunar new year in the horizon, now is the perfect time to hunt for the perfect cheongsam/qipao dress or blouse to don on the auspicious occasion. Find our shopable picks below!

Did you know that H&M will be launching its second Chinese New Year collection exclusively in Malaysia, China, Singapore and Hong Kong? The new faces of the CNY campaign are the newlywed cuties Zhou Xun and Archie Kao! According to the Swedish label, the collection will be made available from January 29th, 2015.

Closer to home, Melinda Looi will be officially launching yet another eclectic CNY collection collection on January 19th!

Sneak peeks of the never-seen-before collection can be viewed on Melinda Looi’s official facebook here.

I admit I’m pretty excited about ML’s anticipated CNY collection as I was practically head over heels with her Raya Collection which featured Diana Danielle back in 2014. Her delightful emel collection can still be shopped here if you’re interested.

Moving on to the topic of mandarin collars; which if you must know are a favorite detail on a top/dress that I’m always on a look out for. The elegant elongating neck collar style is without a doubt a feature you’ve seen on the cheongsam/qipao.

What is a mandarin collar?

Manchurian in origin, the collar is typically short, unfolded stand-up collar with rounded or straight edges at the top of the middle front. The collar’s edges barely meet in the middle or may have a slight overlap. The part where the collars meet may be secured with an embroidered knot.

I have in my possession a sweet powdery pink cheongsam blouse that has a side neck slit secured with an embroidered button-like knot. The fabric is light and airy that I only wear them out on hot and humid days. The blouse lends a certain feminine appeal that is also semi dressy even when paired with casual jeans.

Did I tell you that I raided my mom’s closet to find this gem? The treasures we find in our parents/grandparents’ closets are endless!

If you’re a bit of a mandarin-collar fanatic yourself and have a need for something modern and minimalist with a touch of the oriental style to wear this Lunar New Year, I hope the selection of dresses/tops with the charming collar below will be worth considering:

From the Zalora label:

♥ mandarin collar cutout dress ← SHOP HERE (available in blue)

This fit and flare dress has the much loved mandarin collar and a cold shoulder feature. You’ve got to love how the little details like that make a red dress POP with a distinctive character. A fool-proof party dress, for sure.

♥ lace mandarin collar cut-in top ← SHOP HERE (available in white and red)

This elegant top carries a romantic floral-inspired lace overlay with a curved hemline. The slim-fit shape helps to accentuate the waist. The mandarin collar is a winner in my book!

♥ The brilliant red version ← SHOP HERE

What do they say about the color red? Yup, it makes any wardrobe many times dressier!

♥ mandarin collar floral top ← SHOP HERE (available in blue/black)

This stunning top carries a porcelain-inspired design with floral prints. The neckline is everything to me.

From Inner Circle:

simple sparkle cheongsam

Here’s a cheongsam dress that is rendered in a colorblock style. A superbly modern interpretation of the classic cheongsam that is perfect for those that have appreciation for the past and present. Instead of the traditional elaborate motif, the top is in solid red while the skirt features sweet polka dots.

The dress has a mandarin collar neckline and a decorative front button closure.

red rich moonlight cheongsam

The contrasting side panels on this cheongsam dress are a modern feature. They give the impression of a slim figure. The front decorative button closure draws from the traditional dress while the abstract motif is current. This dress features a slim-fit shape and is fully-lined. Another version of it in a dreamy green color below:

green rich moonlight cheongsam

Before you even ask: YES! These items are all shopable now on Zalora Malaysia.

For the best lunar new year deals so you may shop without going broke, get up to 80% OFF on your order of any items HERE! This offer is valid through January 31st, 2015.

First time shoppers, don’t forget to type code ZBAPedJ to get 15% OFF on your purchase. (Applicable for those in Brunei/Malaysia)

Do you like the charming mandarin collars as much as I do? What outfits do you see yourself wearing for the upcoming Chinese New year? Share below and let us know!

“As a man cannot be known by his looks, neither can the sea be fathomed by a gourd.” — Chinese Proverb

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Here on Fashionista NOW, our one and very own Miss Reverie showcases the latest in fashion trends and its various social implications in our everyday lives. You may read more of her at REVERIE SANCTUARY.