In Malaysia, Chinese weddings are significant occasions for sustaining cultural traditions. Particularly on the wedding day, the Chinese wedding dress of the bride is of paramount importance. The qun kua/kwa, as an iconic piece of traditional Chinese clothing, highlights the solemnity of the ceremony.
The qun kua/kwa is not merely an outfit; it represents Chinese culture, art, and the honour of the family. To ensure perfection on this day, here are 6 crucial considerations when wearing the qun kwa:
Critical Considerations for Wearing the Wedding Qun Kua/Kwa
1. Try on the Qun Kua/Kwa Separately
There is a saying, “Wear once, marry once,” so when trying on at a bridal rental shop, you should try the top and the skirt separately. It is only on the wedding day that you can wear the full set without taking it off and putting it back on, as it is considered unlucky and suggestive of marrying more than once.
2. Do Not Alter the Size of the Qun Kua/Kwa
The qun kua/kwa cannot be resized, it only comes in different models. Altering the kwa equates to altering one’s wedding fate, carrying an inauspicious connotation of “changing marriage”. When custom-making, it is also advised not to tailor the qun kua/kwa too tightly or too short out of respect for the design of traditional Chinese garments.
3. The Qun Kua/Kwa Must Not Be Carelessly Handled
The kwa must be stored properly to prevent contact with pregnant women or those in mourning, as this could lead to unfavourable clashes.
4. Avoid Wavy Designs at the Hem of the Qun Kua
The hem of the kwa should have a simple design. Wavy styles might be too modern and complicated and not in line with the serious atmosphere of a traditional wedding. Additionally, folklore suggests wavy hems symbolize a turbulent marriage.
5. The Qun Kua Should Not Have Pockets
There’s a belief that pockets on the qun kua/kwa can symbolize taking away the family’s fortune, which is deemed unlucky.
6. Avoid Old or Black Shoes with the Qun Kua
Besides the wedding dress from the bridal shop, all other attire on the wedding day should be new, symbolizing a fresh start. The bride should choose matching shoes that complement the color of the kwa, and avoid old or black shoes.
7. Opt for a Qipao or Cheongsam for Remarriage
Since the qun kua/kwa is associated with the saying, “Wear once, marry once,” and as per traditional Chinese “Three Obediences and Four Virtues,” a woman should marry only once and thus wear the kwa only once. For a bride who is remarrying, a qipao is a more understated and elegant choice.
Selecting the appropriate wedding dress, be it a kwa or a cheongsam, is a crucial part of the preparation process for Malaysian Chinese weddings. It involves not just considering the style and aesthetics of the garment but also paying attention to these details and traditional norms. Learn more here!
Choices in Malaysian Wedding Attire: Purchasing or Renting the Qun Kua
In Malaysia, there are various bridal rental stores that offer brides the option to purchase or rent their qun kua/kwa. Whether buying or renting, these considerations are extremely important to ensure that the bride presents herself in the best possible way on one of the most significant days of her life.
The most crucial consideration, however, is that the bride maintains a relaxed mindset while trying on and wearing the wedding qun kua/kwa. She should approach the wedding day with joy and anticipation, avoiding stress and anxiety, for a smooth ceremony and to honour the qun kua/kwa, which symbolizes joy and happiness. Contact us today!