Custom Gown for Christine Chiu — The Golden Blossom

Crafted for the 2025 Gold Gala, this one-of-a-kind couture gown is a poetic tribute to strength, grace, and cultural legacy. Inspired by a Qing Dynasty painting by Zou Yigui—where plum blossoms and camellias bloom in early spring, each vying to be the first—this gown pays homage to Christine Chiu’s pioneering voice for the AAPI community.

The entire silhouette brings the painting to life in three dimensions. Cut from soft gold Duchess satin, the structured bodice is hand-painted with delicate strokes, layered with intricate 3D embroidery. A sculptural branch adorned with hand-beaded plum blossoms climbs from the waist toward an asymmetrical neckline—each flower meticulously made by hand, symbolizing beauty in resilience.

A dropped waist flows into a sumptuous silk velvet drape, cinching the figure before unfolding into a richly textured skirt. Hundreds of micro pintucks evoke the texture of aged silk scrolls, while a dramatic train and subtle leg slit add movement and modernity.

This gown is not just a celebration look—it’s a visual narrative of heritage, artistry, and feminine power.

Read the full story here on Who What Wear.