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When world leaders stepped onto the global stage at the 2014 APEC Summit in Beijing, their attire transcended mere diplomatic protocol. The "New Chinese Attire" (新中装) became an instant cultural phenomenon—a sartorial manifesto that bridged millennia of craftsmanship with 21st-century innovation. This meticulously curated wardrobe did more than clothe dignitaries; it reintroduced the world to Jiangnan's textile heritage while sparking a "Guofeng" (国风) revival that continues to shape China's contemporary fashion identity. Today, as traditional techniques like Su embroidery (苏绣) and Song brocade (宋锦) find fresh relevance in streetwear and haute couture, the South China Museum's exhibition Splendid Jiangnan: The Golden Age of Chinese Textile Art (锦绣江南——中国传统织绣工艺的巅峰创造) revisits this pivotal moment, unpacking how six iconic APEC ensembles became catalysts for cultural reinvention. From Imperial Workshops to Global Runways The Yangtze River Delta's Jiangnan (江南) region, long celebrated as the cradle of Chinese textile excellence, has cultivated textile arts for over 2,000 years. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Suzhou's embroidery ateliers and Nanjing's brocade looms supplied the imperial court with fabrics so exquisite they were deemed "cloth woven by clouds." Yet by the late 20th century, many of these crafts faced extinction, preserved only in museum archives or practiced by…

In the golden age of historical dramas, off-the-shoulder costumes were a staple, often resembling an ancient version of a "deep V." These bold designs captivated audiences with their dramatic flair, but as modern productions strive for greater historical accuracy, such outfits have largely vanished from the screen. Were these revealing styles ever rooted in historical reality? And what led to their decline in contemporary storytelling? The Historical Roots of Off-the-Shoulder Fashion Contrary to the sensationalized portrayals in early historical dramas, ancient Chinese fashion was far more conservative. While certain artworks, such as the murals in the Xu Xianxiu Tomb (徐显秀墓) or figurines from the Wei and Jin dynasties, might suggest the existence of off-the-shoulder attire, these depictions are often misinterpreted. In reality, such outfits were layered with undergarments, ensuring modesty even with a slightly exposed neckline. For instance, during the Northern and Southern Dynasties, a style known as Daxiu ru (large-sleeved robes, 大袖襦) gained popularity. This design featured wide sleeves and a deep neckline, but it was always paired with a circular undergarment or Liangdang (a type of vest, 裲裆) to cover the shoulders. The result was a look that revealed only the collarbone at most—far from the exaggerated "shoulder-baring"…

In the world of historical dramas, few details are as iconic as the sight of characters tying their wide sleeves before engaging in combat. This simple yet practical act, often seen in childhood favorites, is more than just a stylistic choice—it’s a reflection of ancient Chinese ingenuity and functionality. From battlefields to everyday life, the practice of tying sleeves has deep cultural roots, blending practicality with elegance. Sleeve-Tying The tradition of tying sleeves can be traced back to two main purposes: as a simplified version of arm guards in martial contexts and as a practical tool for daily tasks, known as panbo (襻膊). Both uses highlight the adaptability of ancient Chinese clothing to the needs of its wearers. Arm Guards: From Battlefields to Screens The earliest examples of arm guards date back to the Warring States period, where bronze arm guards were used by soldiers. These cylindrical metal protectors were designed to shield the forearm during combat. By the Han Dynasty, arm guards evolved into textile versions, such as the famous "Five Stars Rise in the East, Benefiting China" arm guard, made of intricately woven brocade. These guards were secured with straps, offering both protection and flexibility. In modern historical…

As one of China's most versatile actors, Xiao Zhan (肖战) has carved a unique niche in the world of historical and fantasy serie. His roles often showcase not only his acting range but also the intricate beauty of traditional Chinese aesthetics—from flowing hanfu robes to meticulously recreated imperial settings. Whether you're drawn to epic tales of loyalty and heroism, intricate political intrigues, or soul-stirring romances set against mythical backdrops, Xiao Zhan's dramas deliver unforgettable narratives. This guide will spotlight his most iconic period dramas. Prepare to be captivated by sword-clashing grandeur, poetic storytelling, and a star whose talent shines as brightly as the worlds he brings to life. Cang Hai Zhuan 藏海传 Aired: 2025 (Upcoming) Genres: Historical, Political Intrigue, Revenge Main Roles: Xiao Zhan (Cang Hai), Zhang Jingyi (Xiang Antu) Set in the fictional Great Yong dynasty, Cang Hai Zhuan revolves around the titular character (Xiao Zhan), a survivor of a clan massacre who dedicates a decade to mastering strategy, craftsmanship, and political manipulation. His mission: infiltrate the imperial court disguised as a scholar to unravel the conspiracy behind his family's annihilation. The story intertwines personal vengeance with national salvation as Cang Hai climbs the bureaucratic ladder, forging fragile alliances…

Imagine wandering through mist-shrouded mountains where immortal cultivators duel with spells, or bustling Tang Dynasty markets humming with Silk Road traders and political conspiracies. This is the world of Wang Yibo's Period dramas—a gateway to China's mythic past, where history and fantasy collide in breathtaking spectacle. Wang Yibo (王一博), a rising star with over 40 million Instagram followers, has become an unlikely ambassador of Chinese culture. His roles—whether as a stoic swordsman, a rogue prince, or a genius scholar—transcend language barriers, blending Confucian ideals with modern charisma. Below is a curated guide to his Top 3 Period Dramas. The Untamed 陈情令 Aired: June–August 2019 Period Background: Fictional ancient China, inspired by the Five Great Clans system. Genres: Fantasy, Xianxia (immortal heroes), Mystery, Bromance Main Roles: Wang Yibo as Lan Wangji (蓝忘机), Xiao Zhan as Wei Wuxian (魏无羡) Adaptation Source: Based on Mo Xiang Tong Xiu's novel Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation At its core, The Untamed is a story of defiance and devotion. Set in a world where powerful clans cultivate spiritual energy to combat supernatural evils, the series follows two contrasting souls: Lan Wangji, the icy yet righteous heir of the Gusu Lan Clan, and Wei Wuxian, a free-spirited prodigy…

The recently premiered historical drama Si Jin (思锦) has captivated audiences with its compelling narrative of personal awakening and growth, seamlessly woven into the exquisite aesthetic of Song Dynasty culture. Adapted from the novel of the same name by Dong Tian De Liu Ye, Si Jin is helmed by artistic director and lead producer Yang Xiaopei. The series follows the journey of Jiang Si, the fourth daughter of the Dongping Marquis household, who is betrayed and seemingly perishes at the hands of her lover, Yu Qi (also known as Yu Jin). However, fate grants her a second chance—this time, she is determined to seize control of her destiny. By reinterpreting a classic "rebirth" trope with a fresh perspective, the series not only explores a nuanced portrayal of female agency but also introduces a more immersive engagement with traditional aesthetics—giving historical elements a more dynamic role in the storytelling rather than treating them as mere decorative backdrops. A New Take on Female Strength While rebirth and revenge narratives are hardly new in historical dramas, Si Jin breaks away from the conventional "black lotus" trope, which often portrays female protagonists as extreme avengers. Instead, the show emphasizes intelligence and strategy as the…

Why should hanfu makers turn to thrift stores? For the deals, of course!

Peony Perfume Persists: The New Frontier of Scented Garments In the heart of China's Shandong province, a quiet revolution is taking place. The ancient city of Heze (菏泽), long renowned for its peonies, is now at the forefront of a technological breakthrough that's set to redefine the intersection of tradition and innovation in the world of fashion. At a recent women's handicraft exhibition, all eyes were drawn to an extraordinary display from Cao County, Heze. The star of the show? A skirt that seemed to bridge centuries, combining the timeless elegance of traditional Chinese hanfu with cutting-edge textile technology. This wasn't just any skirt - it was a garment woven from peony fibers, infused with a fragrance that could last for two years. Yao Chihang, the visionary behind the "Luo Ruyan" hanfu brand, beamed with pride as she explained the intricate process behind this marvel. "We've developed a new technique to extract fibers from peonies," she revealed. "During the weaving process, we embed the peony fragrance into the fabric itself, ensuring the scent remains for at least two years." This innovation isn't just a novelty; it's a testament to the potential of merging ancient craftsmanship with modern technology. The skirt itself…

From Niche to Billions: The Explosive Growth of Hanfu Industry In the heart of bustling Shanghai, amidst the gleaming skyscrapers and neon lights, a curious sight unfolds. A group of young professionals, dressed not in Western suits or casual wear, but in flowing robes with wide sleeves and intricate embroidery, make their way through a high-tech office park. This is not a historical reenactment or a costume party - it's a typical workday in 2024 China, where the ancient meets the ultramodern in a phenomenon known as the "Hanfu Renaissance." The resurgence of Hanfu, the traditional clothing of the Han Chinese, is more than just a fashion trend. It represents a seismic shift in cultural identity, economic opportunity, and national pride that is reshaping the landscape of modern China. What began as a niche interest among history enthusiasts has exploded into a multi-billion yuan industry, with ripple effects touching everything from tourism to technology. In 2023, the Hanfu market in China reached a staggering 14.47 billion yuan (approximately $2.24 billion USD), with projections suggesting it could nearly double to 24.18 billion yuan by 2027. This growth is not just in sales figures - the number of Hanfu-related businesses registered in…

So the Mamianqun, or 馬面裙, or horse-faced skirt, has been blowing up lately especially because of the Dior controversy—here's an in-depth dive into the history, construction, and features of the famous horse-face skirt.   A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE MAMIANQUN The mamianqun or horse-faced skirt is a skirt that first originated somewhere close to the Song dynasty worn by high-class courtesans (who were like celebrities and fashion icons tbh) in the form of colorful pleated silk. It’s named this way because of its resemblance to the mamian fortress, which has stairs on either side (like the pleats) and a door in the front and back (like the skirt doors). The ‘doors’ sides of the fortress were known as the *horse faces* or mamian/馬面 because these were the faces of the fortress where the horses would pass through. It became extremely popular in the following Ming dynasty and stayed popular through the Qing dynasty through Manchurian rule—it’s been around for a long, long time! Mamianqun are more convenient for movement and offer a regal, classy aesthetic as well as a very recognizable and unique silhouette. Even Princess Diana wore one once! BASIC CONSTRUCTION OF A MAMIANQUN The Skirt Doors From the…

2021 can be considered a prolific year for Chinese hanfu costume related programs. In addition to the familiar Henan TV, which presents a wonderful tour series on the occasion of Chinese traditional festivals, there are also a number of hanfu programs based on Chinese hanfu, traditional dance, and traditional sports events. This article sorts out these programs for you and will continue to update the latest ones. In chronological order by program broadcast.   2022 24节气系列 · 24 Solar Terms   2022 端午奇妙游 · The Marvelous Tour of the Dragon Boat Festival Broadcast time: June 2, 2022 Type: Gala Duration: 56 minutes https://youtu.be/-qtMsHX86x8 2022 The Marvelous Tour of the Dragon Boat Festival is a Duanwu Festival program produced by Henan TV and co-produced by Youku. The program tells the multiple origins of the Dragon Boat Festival by expanding from the commemorating Qu Yuan to knowledge about astrology and solar terms.   2022 元宵奇妙游 · Lantern Festival Wonderful Tour Broadcast time: February 14, 2022 Type: Gala Duration: 52 minutes https://youtu.be/nnVdmtrbNLo "Lantern Festival Wonderful Tour" is a series of "Chinese Festivals" produced by Henan TV and co-produced by Youku. Through 3 chapters, the audience can feel the hope of "Yuan", the romance of…

The history of Chinese women's make-up is very long. After the rotation of dynasties, the traditional Chinese makeup has changed with the development of the times, reflecting the changes in customs and thoughts in each era. We will prepare a series of articles to introduce traditional Chinese makeup.   Ancient traditional Chinese makeup Throughout the ages, women have different ways and methods to make themselves more beautiful. Compared with the modern, ancient women are more conservative and implicit, but they also have their own set of "secret weapons". As early as in the cultural relics unearthed in the Warring States period, it can be seen from them that at that time, women had the habit of thrushing and use rouge. That is to say, more than 2000 years ago in China, cosmetics had appeared. Of course, ancient China was an agricultural society, always in a state of self-sufficiency, and cosmetics were no exception. At that time, cosmetics were mainly made of pure natural plant and animal oils, and some natural spices were added. The general production process includes boiling, fermentation, filtration, etc. compared with the modern cosmetics production process, it is still relatively simple. Therefore, compared with modern women, ancient…

Last Friday 3/17 I was invited to a local Chinese school to give a small talk on hanfu! The aim was to share hanfu culture with more people here and to present an example to the kids of what doors can be opened to you by maintaining language skills. A little background—I myself attended this once-a-week school from kindergarten up until 6th grade, upon which I pulled out of the school to invite the Chinese teacher that taught me in 6th grade to tutor me at home privately. She was a great tutor and a key part of inspiring my interest in ancient Chinese culture through poetry, history, and more, keeping me engaged while analyzing Tang Dynasty shi and Song Dynasty ci. As I got busy, I stopped the tutoring when I was in 10th grade—and I was introduced to the concept of hanfu not even a few months later! I’ve kept up communication with this teacher for a while (whose name I won’t disclose for privacy reasons) and visited her in Taiwan throughout the years. This year she came back to teach at the local chinese school and invited me to give a talk on hanfu there. For the…

I made my first real Hanfu based on patterns from this website. First outing at the beach, with dragons and all. Here is an article with much details on my sewing journey.

Wearing armor, riding a horse, holding a traditional weapon, fighting on the battlefield. Such a scene may have appeared in the dreams of many people when they were young. But there is a person who turned the traditional Chinese armor in the dream into reality, he is the first person to restore the ancient armor of the Tang and Song dynasties, Wen Chenhua (温陈华). He has highly restoration the armor of the Song dynasty, which has been lost in China for 700 years, after 6 years. He founded the Lian Kai Tang (炼铠堂), and with his own strength, he promoted the obscure armor restoration craft, and let Chinese armor on the world-class combat stage.   #01 The first person in traditional Chinese armor restoration There are only about 1000 armor restorers in China, 90% of them are Wen Chenhua's students, and for 40 years, he has been restoring Jiazhou (甲胄, traditional Chinese armor) to the extreme. On Wen Chenhua's social platforms profile, there is only a simple sentence "Top Chinese Jiazhou maker" as an introduction. However, he has shared a lot of armor design drawings and finished armor photos, all revealing his deep love for Jiazhou. Traditional armor restoration and…

In the celestial hierarchy of Journey to the West (西游记), divine mounts (神骑) occupy a paradoxical role: they are both exalted and enslaved. Lions, elephants, and golden-haired beasts—once fearsome demons—are collared, neutered, and pressed into service by bodhisattvas and sages. Their domestication symbolizes Heaven's power to redeem chaos into order. Yet one figure stands apart, unbroken and unbridled: Wukong, the Monkey King. The Anatomy of a Divine Mount Heaven's stables are not filled by chance. To qualify as a mount, a creature must meet strict criteria—criteria Wukong shattered with every swing of his staff. The Biology of Submission Divine mounts are almost exclusively quadrupeds: lions, elephants, oxen, or horses. Their four-legged stance signifies stability, a biological pragmatism for carrying gods across realms. Wukong, however, is a bipedal primate—a mimic of humans who stands upright, wields tools, and laughs at gravity. His very anatomy rebels against the concept of being "ridden." In Chinese symbolism, monkeys represent the restless "heart-mind" (xinyuan), a metaphor for desires that resist control. To mount him would be to tame the untamable, a paradox even the Jade Emperor's bureaucracy couldn't resolve. The Politics of Punishment Divine mounts are not born—they are made. Take the Nine-Headed Lion, a…

How a Brush Transforms Glass into Art In the quiet corners of Zibo (淄博) City's Boshan District, Shandong Province, an 81-year-old master named Zhang Guangzhong bends over a worktable, his hands steady as he guides a hair-thin brush through the narrow mouth of a snuff bottle. Inside this "bean-sized" aperture, mythical beasts gallop across miniature landscapes, and 500 arhats (Buddhist saints) gather in silent contemplation—all painted in reverse. This is the elusive craft of Lupai Neihua (鲁派内画), or Shandong-style inner-bottle painting, a national intangible cultural heritage that turns humble glass vessels into portals to China's artistic soul. For Zhang, this ritual is more than a vocation—it's a lifelong meditation. Since 1964, when he joined Boshan Art Glass Factory's inner-bottle painting division, he has spent over 60 years refining his technique under masters like Zhang Wentang and Xue Jingwan. Unlike Western miniature painters who work on flat surfaces, Lupai artists must visualize their compositions backward, their brushstrokes defying gravity as they paint on the inner walls of bottles. The tools themselves are marvels: custom-made brushes with curved bamboo handles and resilient weasel-hair bristles, designed to navigate the glass labyrinth. Zhang's works, such as Hundred Beasts and Five Hundred Arhats, are celebrated…

What Makes a Hero? Heroes, as the Chinese saying goes, are "the unyielding spine that never bends with time"—a force that courses through the blood of mountains and rivers, igniting generations with its fervor. This eternal inquiry lies at the heart of Qin Yin (琴吟), a hauntingly powerful ballad released in March 2024 as part of a collaborative project by China National Radio and NetEase Cloud Music. More than a song, it is a bridge spanning millennia, weaving the valor of Jin Dynasty (晋朝) generals Zu Ti (祖逖) and Liu Kun (刘琨) into a modern anthem that asks: How does heroism shape a civilization's soul? Set against the backdrop of China's Spring Equinox—a time of renewal—Qin Yin emerges as both a tribute and a challenge. Its lyrics, penned like ink brushed onto silk, retrace the footsteps of two fourth-century warriors whose camaraderie and sacrifice became legend. Through ethereal zither melodies and thunderous orchestral swells, the song distills their spirit into a single refrain: "Let the zither's notes be our ink; together, we'll paint the rivers and mountains of Huaxia." But why resurrect these figures now? In an era of fleeting digital trends, Qin Yin dares to anchor itself in China's…

Horse-face skirts, also known as "Mamian Skirts," are a timeless and iconic part of traditional Chinese clothing. Originating from the Song Dynasty and popularized during the Ming Dynasty, these skirts have evolved from simple functional garments to sophisticated fashion statements that blend cultural heritage with modern style. Whether you're a seasoned Hanfu enthusiast or just starting your journey into the world of traditional Chinese attire, this guide will help you navigate the intricacies of choosing the perfect horse-face skirt. Understanding the Structure and Design A horse-face skirt consists of two main pieces that overlap at the front, creating four skirt doors (two on each side). The outer skirt doors are often decorated, while the inner ones may have minimal or no embellishments. The sides of the skirt are pleated, and the waistband is typically made of white fabric, symbolizing longevity and marital bliss. This design not only adds aesthetic appeal but also provides practicality, allowing for ease of movement. Key Features to Consider Skirt Length Shoe-On Style: Ideal length is leg length + 7 cm, ensuring a balanced look without compromising mobility. Long Style: Opt for leg length + 9-10 cm for a more flowing silhouette that complements various occasions.…

At Fujian Museum’s latest exhibition, visitors aren’t just seeing artifacts—they’re meeting fashion. Four reconstructed outfits from Huang Sheng, a Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279) noblewoman, have taken center stage, merging historical accuracy with runway-ready appeal. These garments, originally featured in National Treasure Season 4, reveal how designer Zhang Ting reimagined 800-year-old textiles for modern audiences. The exhibition coincides with the popular Chinese cultural series’ new season, showcasing garments worn by actress Chen Duling during her portrayal of Huang Sheng. From indigo-dyed floral patterns to gold-accented embroidery, each piece tells a story about how Song aristocrats dressed—and how contemporary designers interpret their legacy. The Closet Time Forgot Discovered in a 13th-century tomb in Fuzhou, Huang Sheng’s wardrobe became a sartorial Rosetta Stone. Her 354 burial garments revealed unexpected details: lightweight floral silks, metallic threadwork, and color palettes that defied the "muted antiquity" stereotype. Zhang Ting’s reconstructions highlight three key pieces: A blue camellia-patterned Beizi (褙子, a traditional Song Dynasty outer garment) with embroidered lotus borders A purple peony-and-crabapple Daxiu Shan (大袖衫, wide-sleeved robe) featuring gradient dye techniques A pink peony-and-osmanthus Chang Beizi (长褙子, long outer coat) using replicated Song-era brocade "These aren’t costumes—they’re wearable archaeology," explains museum curator Lin Wei. "Zhang’s team studied fabric samples under microscopes to match weaving…

The clock struck 9 PM in Beijing, but inside Paris's Palais de Tokyo, the night was just beginning. Editors from Vogue, influencers clutching their iPhones, and celebrities like Liu Yu and Yuan Shanshan buzzed under the cavernous ceilings, their eyes fixed on towering embroidered tapestries depicting mythical butterflies, celestial cranes, and love stories woven into silk. This wasn't just another Paris Fashion Week spectacle—it was SHIATZY CHEN's Fall/Winter 2025 collection, a masterclass in bridging 1,000-year-old Miao traditions with the pulse of contemporary luxury. For founder Shiatzy Chen (Wang Chen Tsai-Hsia), this show wasn't merely about aesthetics; it was a manifesto. "When I first started, department stores told me, 'No one wants Chinese styles—give us international,'" she recalls, her voice steady yet charged with defiance. Nearly five decades later, her brand stands as a beacon of neo-Chinese chic, proving that heritage isn't a relic—it's a revolution. Ancient Stitches and Avant-Garde Craft The collection, titled Far&Near, hinged on a radical proposition: What if Miao embroidery—a UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritage—could speak the language of modern urbanites? To answer this, Chen and her team embarked on three pilgrimages to Guizhou's remote Miao villages, collaborating with seven intangible cultural heritage artisans. Their mission? To decode…