“Dream Factory:
Cantopop Mandopop 1980s–2000”

Modernize Tailors recreated three most iconic outfits Canto Pop history for the “Dream Factory: Cantopop Mandopop 1980s–2000” exhibition at Chinese Canadian Museum in Chinatown, Vancouver.

One recreation is the stunning dress worn by Taiwanese singer Teresa Teng (鄧麗君) during one of her concerts in the 80s. It is a black velvet cheongsam with hand-embroidered phoenixes. Another one is the “King of Cantopop”, Leslie Cheung’s (張國榮), iconic white feather suit, designed by Jean Paul Gaultier, and worn during the opening of his 2000 “Passion Tour” concert. Finally, the last piece is Roman Tam’s (羅文) golden beaded black tailcoat tuxedo, which he wore for the 1989 “Just For You” concert.

TECHNIQUES WE USED

For Teresa Teng’s black cheongsam, our talented tailors used a beading technique called “Tambour” to crochet the beads and sequins onto the black velvet fabric. We fixed and stabilized the fabric to the wood frame to help speed up the process. Felt material also raises the surface to make the embroidery three-dimensional.

The tailors used the same technique on the beading on Roman Tam’s black tailcoat. However, during the process, we faced a significant challenge when searching for the identical beads. Instead of copying the exact design, the tailors came up the solution: putting each original beading blocks into sections to suggest the original design.

In order to attach the feathers to the sleeve of Leslie Cheung’s white feather suit. The tailors started by attaching a piece of tulle on top of the sleeves, which created a secure layer. Following that, hundreds of feathers got sewn and affixed to the layer of tulle.

THE EXIBITON

Creating these beautiful garments was an honor, stirring childhood memories in many. We appreciate people who value our tailors’ dedication and workmanship since the launch.

The exhibition also includes a mix of installations by Chinese Canadian artists, vintage album art, music videos, and fan memorabilia. It features hundreds of artists in various ways throughout, including music legends Teresa Teng, Anita Mui and Faye Wong and the Four Heavenly Kings of Cantopop, Jacky Cheung, Andy Lau, Leon Lai and Aaron Kwok.

The exhibit runs until May 31st, 2026.

The exhibit runs until May 31st, 2026.