30th Birthday Qipao Dress // Green Lace Dress

Yesterday was my 30th birthday. If you asked me 5 years ago where I thought I would be by the time I turned 30, I definitely would not in a million years have predicted where I am now. The me five years ago would have said that by the time I’m 30, I would be an Account Director at an advertising agency, be either engaged or married, and about ready to settle down and pop out a few kids. The me I am now is a full-time fashion blogger, happily living my boyfriend, and definitely not ready to settle down or have kids anytime soon. It is crazy to think how differently life can turn out if you just follow your heart and let it deviate from your plans. I’ve never been happier than I am now in my life – doing something I love, finally in a happy and healthy relationship, and most importantly really knowing myself. So I would say I am pretty excited to start my 30s and leave my 20s of uncertainty and caring about what everyone else thinks behind! 

This green lace dress is one of my favorite finds from my recent trip to China. It is actually a modern version of a qipao dress, which is a traditional, body-hugging Chinese dress worn in the 1920s and 1930s.  I’ve never owned a qipao dress because many of them are super traditional and can look costume-y, but I liked this dress immediately. The delicate green lace reminded me of a vintage dress, and I was drawn to the sheer neckline with a subtle polka dot print. In fact, the only part of the dress that indicates it’s a qipao dress is the traditional qipao neckline. 

I definitely feel super grown-up and elegant in this dress. It’s the kind of piece that just makes me feel like a woman. For a glam night out, I added a fur bolero and green brocade heels. I also chose a vintage yellow handbag for a pop of color, as well as sparkly disc earrings. I even got my hair done at Facetime Beauty and chose a side braid with waves for a romantic and feminine look.

Shop the Look:

Dress: From China (similar here via RTR)
Fur Jacket: Jocelyn
Shoes: Mari A
Bag: Vintage
Earrings: SEQUIN
Bracelet: SEQUIN 
Watch: Ted Baker

Thanks for reading,

Mary