Grace Pei:

"I never imagined my path would lead from numbers to needles, from finance to fashion. With two degrees from two top English universities and a promising career in finance, my future seemed set. Yet, deep inside, I felt a tug—a longing for something more meaningful.

So, I took a leap into the world of bridal couture. For over ten years, I've been creating custom wedding dresses. But it wasn't just about making pretty gowns. I wanted to understand the stories behind them—the families, the cultures, the traditions.

In the world of weddings, I found storytellers. Each dress I made held a piece of someone's history. I learned about blending customs, passing down traditions, and celebrating love through generations.

As I worked, I realized how important each tradition is. They're like the threads that weave us together, connecting past and present. So, I dove into learning more—about different cultures, their customs, and their values.

In the depths of my closet lies a treasure—an heirloom passed down through generations: my great grandmother's Qipao. Crafted from vibrant green silk, adorned with delicate gold trim and hand-beaded peonies, it exudes timeless elegance. This priceless garment, with its side slits and intricate embroidery, encapsulates the essence of my family's history.

My connection to this Qipao grows stronger day by day. Growing up, I knew my great grandmother only through a faded photograph cherished by my grandparents. Her entire wardrobe vanished during the war time, leaving behind only this precious relic. She departed this world at a young age, clutching the solitary watch she managed to keep—a poignant reminder of her fleeting existence.

My grandmother, with her gentle touch and jasmine-scented memories, kept alive the spirit of her mother. Sitting by the lotus pond, she wove tales of love and resilience, adorning my neck with freshly picked jasmine flowers. These moments,  linger in my heart long after her passing.

In homage to these childhood memories of mine and the legacy they left behind, I embarked on a personal quest—to design my own version of the Qipao. Drawing inspiration from jasmine blooms and the tranquil lotus pond, I crafted a modern interpretation—a jumpsuit adorned with hand-embroidered motifs. This creation intertwines the threads of my family's past with my aspirations for the future.

In my journey as a designer, I've come to realize the profound significance of custom clothing. Beyond mere fashion statements, each piece bears the weight of personal narratives—marking milestones, preserving heritage, and fostering connections. Through collaborative designs with clients, I've witnessed the transformative power of couture—empowering individuals to reveal their truest selves and honor their heritage and family traditions.

With every dress, I uncovered new stories—tales of strength, resilience, and love. And I felt honored to be a part of it all. That's why I started sharing these stories with others, especially young kids in schools. I want them to know about the beauty of different cultures and traditions.

In this ever-changing world, I'm on a mission—to celebrate our shared heritage, to cherish the stories that make us who we are. Because in the end, it's not just about the dresses we wear, but the stories they tell and the traditions they honor.

This is my story—a testament to the enduring legacy of family, tradition, and craftsmanship. But it doesn't end here. I invite you to share your own tales—of resilience, love, and the garments that weave them together. For within each stitch lies a story waiting to be told—a story of strength, beauty, and the timeless bond of kinship."

Introducing our skilled team, the creative force behind your custom Qipao. Each member brings their unique talents to the table, ensuring your garment is crafted to perfection.

At JINZA Oriental Couture, our design philosophy is deeply rooted in the essence of artistry and beauty. To us, being an artist means dedicating ourselves entirely to the craft of creating exquisite garments. Our inspiration comes from a profound study of religious and cultural texts, and a commitment to purifying our hearts, all in pursuit of producing garments of unparalleled quality.

Whether it's cooking, painting, or tailoring, each act of creation is a reflection of the artist's soul - a blend of strength and vulnerability, passion and humility, memories cherished and lessons learned.

We believe that true perfection lies in embracing imperfection, a principle embodied in our understanding of Wabi-Sabi. It's in the spaces filled with love, surrounded by those who inspire and uplift us, that our creativity truly flourishes. This philosophy guides every stitch we make, infusing our garments with not just beauty, but the very essence of life itself.

Be more specific, the mere aesthetic to touch the very core of what it means to be human. Each garment we create is unique, not only in its design but in its ability to reflect the wearer's humanity - a tapestry of perfection and imperfection, and the compromises made with oneself.