Bringing Cheshire's New Year Qipao look from Azur Lane to life, I wrapped up this project just in time for the Spring Festival. The aim of this styling was to create a cozy and delightfully festive holiday atmosphere, so the primary palette centered on genuine Chinese red within a modified Chinese Qipao silhouette.
The chest is adorned with traditional metallic frog fasteners and black-and-gold patterns; the cut of the neckline and cuffs blends traditional Chinese charm with a 2D anime flair. The most striking element is the white plush shawl draped over the shoulders—soft to the touch, it not only fits the winter holiday theme and creates a lively red-and-white visual rhythm with the red skirt, but also adds structural presence to ensure the upper bodice never looks sparse. The lower half features classic white lace-trimmed thigh-highs with integrated garter straps; the white platform lace-up high heels not only harmonize with the plush fur and White stockings, but also elongate and flatter leg contours for a sleek, slender proportion.
The set design required extensive thought, crafting a studio space rich in classical Chinese elements. Deep crimson drapery served as the foundational backdrop, establishing a warm and celebratory tone. Traditional black-lacquered wooden armchair furniture provided crisp, structured lines that contrasted with soft seated postures. Geometric wooden lattice screens placed behind added depth, while tassel curtains and hanging floral scrolls on the left provided layered foreground framing. Pink-and-white plum blossom branches in a vase immediately elevated the New Year spirit, complemented by retro floor-standing paper lanterns and shimmering gold fabric accents.
The weather was rather chilly on shooting day, making the plush shawl both a stylish accessory and a welcome source of warmth. For makeup, a clean matte base emphasized the brows and eyeliner for a deep, captivating gaze. To complement the cyan-blue highlights along the bangs, subtle cool tones were blended into the eyeshadow, creating a balanced temperature contrast against the warm red backdrop to keep focal clarity on the eyes.
The shoot flowed smoothly thanks to great chemistry with the photographer. Aiming to express the relaxed charm of hosting guests at home during the holidays, movements were kept gentle and unhurried—relying on soft gazes and subtle bodily tilts to convey relaxed confidence. Poses with legs crossed or leaning against the chair back caught lighting and reflections across the white stockings and gold fabrics gorgeously. The rich red background paired with this ensemble, enhanced by subtle post-processing, gave the photos an intensely vibrant color palette, which I hope delivers authentic festive warmth and sincerity to every Commander celebrating this New Year greeting illustration in Cheshire Cosplay.