袍 usually appears in compounds: 旗袍 (qípáo, cheongsam), 长袍 (chángpáo, long robe), 袍子 (páozi, robe). On its own it sounds literary.
culture
The 旗袍 (qípáo) is one of the most iconic Chinese garments. Originally a Manchu garment, it evolved into the elegant form-fitting dress known worldwide.
