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Hairstyles for Kids in Historical Cdrama
Finally, in historical dramas like 'Family Business,' 'National Beauty and Fragrance,' and 'Joy of Life,' the appearance of many child characters has sparked netizen discussions: 'So this is how ancient children looked!' Let's start with the conclusion. Ancient children generally went through stages of shaving, growing, and tying their hair. Their hairstyles varied, similar to how kids grow today. Parents, take note: children wearing Hanfu don't need adult hairstyles; it's not awkward at all. Did you also dream of dressing and styling like adults as a kid? But it was just a fantasy. Some historical dramas, for dramatic effect, often give children adult hairstyles and even add crowns, turning them into 'mini - adults' without childlike charm. Ancient children usually tied their hair into buns around ages 15 - 16, when boys reached 'weak crown' (coming - of - age) or girls 'hairpin' (adulthood). Before that, they mostly wrapped their hair in colorful cloth, showing their playfulness and cuteness. Let's explore further. At first, children's hair was mostly fine 'fetal hair.' They often shaved and regrew it, as seen in ancient paintings. The top hair was usually styled into an inverted triangle, called 'tiáo.' You can feel the scene of… -
Yang Mi’s Tang Dynasty Makeup: The Story Behind the Two Red Dots
The Red Dots: More Than Just Decoration In the upcoming drama Lychees of Chang’an, Yang Mi’s Tang Dynasty-inspired makeup has sparked curiosity—particularly the two red dots near her lips. These are no random embellishments. Known as mianye (面靥, pronounced "myan-yeh"), they trace back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) and evolved into a symbol of sophistication during the Tang era (618–907 CE). Historical records, like Shuowen Jiezi (说文解字), define mianye as decorative marks near the dimples. Initially called dì (旳), they later took diverse forms—dots, crescent moons, floral shapes—and materials like gemstones, gold foil, or even dried botanicals. For example, Lingbiao Luyi (岭表录异) mentions using pressed flowers as eco-friendly alternatives. One theory links mianye to palace life. Concubines allegedly used these dots to discreetly signal menstruation, avoiding imperial duties. Over time, the practice trickled down to commoners, transforming into a beauty statement . By the Tang Dynasty, creativity soared: dots expanded to foreheads and temples, morphing into huadian (花钿, floral motifs) and zhenzhu zhuang (珍珠妆, pearl-studded designs). These weren’t just pretty—they softened facial lines, offering a timeless anti-aging hack. Tang women embraced maximalism. Imagine gold leaf swirls, ruby-studded cheeks, or peony-shaped mianye—all while maintaining harmony. Dunhuang murals reveal how…- 0
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The Power of Upward-Sweeping Eyebrows in Ancient Chinese Makeup
In the historical cdrama, actors Chen Jin and Xu Jiao portray characters with distinctive eyebrow styles that exude an undeniable aura of authority. Unlike conventional female characters whose eyebrows taper downward or remain straight, their eyebrow tails sweep dramatically upward. This unique style, known as Hanyan Mei (涵烟眉) or Fuyun Mei (拂云眉), was particularly popular during the early Tang Dynasty through the Wu Zhou period. Characterized by sharp inner corners and finely separated hairs at the tails, this eyebrow style sometimes featured a narrower, more arched peak, also referred to as Yuanshan Mei (远山眉). Ancient Chinese literature, such as the Fengguang Ci by a Tang Dynasty poetess, describes these eyebrows as ethereal as mist or drifting clouds. Their upward sweep not only added a touch of independence and confidence but also became a defining feature in murals and paintings from that era. Compared to the softer Juan Yan Mei (罥烟眉), Hanyan Mei was bolder and more vibrant, leaving a lasting impression. Modern adaptations in film and television have softened its intensity, blending strength with elegance. Modern Applications and Tips This eyebrow style, often seen in strong female roles like those in Zhang Xin, enhances facial structure by filling the temple… -
Lin Yun: The Most Fairy-like Ancient Hairstyle Revealed
The Evolution of Shuang Huan Wangxian Ji The hairstyle, known as Shuang Huan Wangxian Ji (双鬟望仙髻), has been hailed as the most iconic and popular fairy-like hairstyle, transcending age and time. Originating from the Shuang Huan Ji (双环髻), this hairstyle was initially designed for young girls. However, its ethereal beauty made it a frequent feature in divine paintings, such as the renowned Luoshen Fu Tu (洛神赋图) and the Eighty-Seven Immortals Scroll (八十七神仙卷). Over time, it evolved into a cultural phenomenon. During the Wei, Jin, and Southern and Northern Dynasties (魏晋南北朝), the high bun with double rings was prevalent. By the early Tang Dynasty (初唐), the Shuang Huan Wangxian Ji began to take shape, characterized by its round and full appearance. The hairstyle ranged from modest daily buns to exaggeratedly large ones, sometimes even matching the length of a face. By the mid-to-late Tang Dynasty (中晚唐), the contours of the hairstyle became wavy, adding a dynamic charm to its otherwise simple form. Popularity Across Dynasties In the Song Dynasty (宋代), this hairstyle became a fashion trend among commoners. Women adorned it with pearl accessories and simplified its originally exaggerated height, making it more wearable for daily life. However, by the Ming… -
The Mystery of the Hairpin Flower in Court Ladies
The Court Ladies Adorning Their Hair with Flowers painting has inspired numerous costume dramas, including Dream of Splendor, National Beauty and Fragrance, and Peaceful Year. But how accurate are these adaptations? Let's delve into the authentic portrayal of court ladies from the Five Dynasties period. The Iconic Hairstyle and Its Origins The hairstyle seen in these dramas is inspired by the noblewomen depicted in Zhou Fang's (disputed authorship) Court Ladies Adorning Their Hair with Flowers. Characterized by towering buns adorned with hairpins and floral decorations, it exudes elegance. However, the clothing patterns and styles suggest a late Tang or Five Dynasties origin rather than the Tang Dynasty. Floral Patterns: Tang vs. Five Dynasties There's a noticeable difference between the floral patterns of the High Tang and late Tang/Five Dynasties. High Tang designs feature clustered, cohesive flowers, while late Tang/Five Dynasties styles are more scattered with paired flowers and leaves. This distinction helps date the painting to the late Tang or later. The Hairpin Flower Controversy Shen Congwen speculated that the prominent hairpin flowers might have been added by Song Dynasty artists. The painting shows women with loose, cloud - like hair adorned with golden hairpins, making the addition of large…- 0
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The Art of Ancient Chinese Yunbin Hairstyles
In modern times, people often think of bangs as the only way to decorate the forehead. However, in ancient China, there were various methods such as sticking Huadian (花钿), wearing forehead scarves, headbands, or applying forehead decorations. Today, let's talk about Yunbin (云鬓), a hairstyle made directly from one's own hair to cover the hairline. Yunbin, commonly seen in the Song Dynasty, is also known as Yun Jian Qiao E (云尖巧额). It involves curling a few strands of hair on the forehead or temples to create a layered, cloud-like effect. This not only helps to cover the hairline and temples but also adds a touch of elegance and grace to a woman's appearance. As described in The Ballad of Mulan: "She combs her cloud-like hair by the window and adorns her forehead with yellow flowers." According to Feng Chuang Xiao Bu from the Song Dynasty, "During the Chongning period, people preferred large bangs and square foreheads. By the Zhenghe and Xuanhe eras, tight buns hanging to the shoulders were in vogue. After the Xuanhe period, Yun Jian Qiao E and golden phoenix hairpins became popular." This shows how ancient Chinese used their own hair to create various styles, including Yunbin,… -
The Makeup and Costumes in Five Blessings
Fans have pointed out that it's hard to distinguish characters in the drama 'Five Blessings' due to the overly similar makeup and costumes. Despite the actors' good looks, the lack of individuality in their styling makes them blend together, leading to visual fatigue. The issue isn't just limited to facial features; even from a distance, characters are indistinguishable because of their nearly identical outfits and hairstyles. The female characters, without exception, sport center - parted bangs with either a single or double bun, occasionally varied by additional hair accessories. Their eye makeup, eyebrows, and lip colors are almost identical. The costumes predominantly feature Beizi (褙子) from the Southern Song Dynasty, with occasional Northern Song - style cross - collar robes and wide - sleeved gowns. The fabrics and color schemes are so uniform that even changes in a character's marital status—like switching from loose hair to an updo—fail to make a noticeable difference. This problem isn't unique to 'Five Blessings.' Many modern historical dramas prioritize template - based styling over character - specific designs, reinforcing cultural stereotypes. Unlike dramas such as 'National Beauty' or 'Pearl Curtain,' where each character's makeup and costumes evolve with their roles and settings, 'Five Blessings'…- 0
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Why Nezha Always Has Bun Hairstyle?
The recent release of 'Nezha: The Devil Boy's Havoc' (Nezha 2) has reignited discussions about the iconic bun hairstyle that seems to define Nezha's appearance across various adaptations. Is it a coincidence or a stereotype? Netizens joke: 'Nezha can change his fate, but not his hairstyle.' The origin of the 'bun hairstyle' can be traced back to ancient China, where it was one of the many hairstyles popular among women. Its roots lie in the 'double bun' style, which was highly fashionable during that era. Excavated pottery figurines vividly depict the societal admiration for delicate feminine beauty. This trend even influenced ancient Japanese fashion, particularly during the Nara period. Historical dramas like NHK's 'The Great Buddha Opening Eyes,' set in Nara, showcase characters adorned with Tang Dynasty - inspired double - bun hairstyles. In Chinese history, children's double - bun hairstyles were referred to as 'Zongjiao.' Ancient texts emphasize the importance of preserving one's hair as a sign of filial piety. From around eight or nine years old, Han children, regardless of gender, would part their hair into two small buns resembling horns, hence the name 'Zongjiao.' Girls' buns were often styled like branching twigs, known as 'Yaji,' which led…- 0
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Wang Churan's Hanfu Style Sparks Debate on Traditional Hairstyle
During the CCTV program 'Golden Snake Dance • Chinese New Year Flavor,' Wang Churan appeared in traditional Hanfu attire, but her hairstyle raised eyebrows among some netizens. They questioned whether the two strands of hair in front resembled the Japanese 'hime cut.' To clarify, this hairstyle, known as 'Chuixiao Ji,' can be traced back to ancient Chinese paintings like 'The Admonitions Scroll' and 'The Wise and Benevolent Women.' It was popular during the Han and Jin dynasties, with origins dating back to the Warring States period. The hairstyle features neatly trimmed bangs that reach the eyebrow line, with strands hanging down the sides, a style also referred to as 'Fenxiao.' Historical artifacts, such as the jade dancer figurine from the Jin Village Tomb in Luoyang, depict this hairstyle, showcasing its cultural significance. Wang's headpiece, a gold 'Buyao' (hair ornament) from Liangzhou, Gansu, is styled as 'One Sparrow, Four Flowers,' symbolizing nobility during the Han Dynasty. The Buyao was typically worn in pairs, swaying with movement, embodying the elegance of noblewomen from the Han to Wei - Jin periods. The Chuixiao hairstyle not only framed the face but also reflected the ethereal aesthetic influenced by Confucian and Daoist ideals. However, modern…- 0
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The Tang Dynasty Hairstyles: Hair Buns Wrapping Face
Have you ever wondered why women in Tang Dynasty-themed films and TV shows often appear 'top-heavy'? It's not an illusion! In classical makeup and styling, the hairstyles of the mid to late Tang Dynasty are famously referred to as 'big heads.' But why? Just take a look at the number of hair buns atop their heads. The trend of 'big heads' actually began to emerge as early as the late Eastern Han Dynasty, when noblewomen started favoring high buns, considering them a mark of beauty. The Tang Dynasty took this trend to its peak, leading to the creation of various types of artificial hairpieces (Yiji) specifically for high buns. What did women do if they wanted to achieve this look but lacked enough hair? They simply wore artificial hairpieces. Common materials for Yiji included real hair or wooden substitutes. For example, this spiral-shaped Yiji was made from 'fake hair,' lined with hemp cloth, wrapped with palm fibers, and dyed to create a spiral shape. It could be easily pressed onto the head, showcasing both antiquity and craftsmanship. The materials for Yiji were diverse, not limited to real hair. Thin wooden pieces were also used. One such example is the lacquered…- 0
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The Ancient Hairstyles of Young Maidens in Historical Dramas
In the historical drama 'Guo Se Fang Hua,' the portrayal of Yulu's maid has left a deep impression on viewers. Many netizens have humorously remarked, 'Did this hairstyle escape from a museum?' Indeed, the double - bun hairstyle, a signature look for young maidens in ancient times, holds a special place in traditional aesthetics. This hairstyle, known as Shuang Ji (双髻), was commonly worn by unmarried women, palace maids, and young servants, symbolizing youth and innocence. The Shuang Ji can be further categorized based on its shape and drooping style, such as Shuang Huan Ji (双鬟髻), Shuang Luo Ji (双螺髻), and Shuang Ya Ji (双丫髻). The foundational feature of this hairstyle is the division of hair into two equal parts, creating a symmetrical look. Each side is meticulously coiled into a small bun, typically positioned on either side of the head. The drooping version is poetically referred to as 'Shuang Chui Ji' (双垂髻). Additionally, variations like the Mao Ji (卯髻), characterized by its crescent shape, and the Huan Ji (鬟髻), featuring ring - like buns, add diversity to this traditional style. The Huan Ji often appears in pairs but can also be seen in multiples, with three or more buns… -
The Ancient Chinese Drunk Blush Makeup Trend
Have you ever wondered why some classical Chinese portraits depict women with strikingly red cheeks that almost look like bruises? This distinctive look is actually an intentional and celebrated makeup style from ancient China called Jiuyun Zhuang (酒晕妆), or "Drunk Blush Makeup." This bold cosmetic trend originated during the prosperous Tang Dynasty (618 - 907 AD), particularly popular during Empress Wu Zetian's reign. The style involved applying vibrant red pigment across large portions of the face - not just the cheeks, but often extending to the eyelids, jawline, and even ears. Historical records from the Zhuangtai Ji (妆台记), an ancient Chinese cosmetic manual, describe three intensity levels of this look: the most dramatic Jiuyun Zhuang (Drunk Blush), the softer Taohua Zhuang (Peach Blossom Makeup), and the subtle Feixia Zhuang (Flying Sunset Makeup). Beauty Standard of the Time What modern eyes might perceive as excessive was actually a sophisticated beauty standard of its time. The warm Wozhe (渥赭) hue - a traditional pigment made from cinnabar and ink - served multiple purposes: enhancing healthy complexion, creating facial dimension, and projecting an image of vitality. During mid - Tang period, women often paired this look with bold eyebrows for an even more…- 0
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The Art of Huadian in Ancient Chinese Beauty
Have you ever thought that Huadian (花钿) were merely painted on? Sharp - eyed netizens have discovered that the Huadian in the drama 'Guo Se Fang Hua' are actually three - dimensional. Compared to painted ones, these gemstone Huadian showcase more intricate details and textures. To begin with, the Huadian worn by ancient Chinese women were not only vibrant in color but also diverse in materials. Beyond the traditional cinnabar outlines, they included gold foil, gemstones, pearls, and kingfisher feathers. During the Tang Dynasty, it was quite common for women to adorn their foreheads with Huadian. Historical records, such as Tang Li Fuyan's 'Xu Xuan Guai Lu·Ding Hun Dian,' mention Wei Gu's wife who 'always wore a Huadian between her eyebrows, never removing it even during baths or leisure.' By the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, some women even covered nearly their entire faces with Huadian, reflecting the trend's popularity. For instance, red Huadian, outlined with cinnabar, were so vividly colored that Tang poet Bai Juyi wrote in 'Banquet at Zhou Hao's Guangfu Residence': 'Red cherries pale in comparison to the Huadian's brilliance.' Gold foil Huadian, also known as 'Jindian' (金钿), were so delicate they resembled cicada wings, earning…- 0
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Ancient Chinese Lipstick: Beyond the Paper Stunt
In countless historical dramas, we often see female characters pressing a red paper to their lips for instant color. This raises an intriguing question: Was this actually a historical practice? The answer reveals far more sophistication in ancient Chinese cosmetics than modern audiences might assume. Ancient China developed lip color products called Kouzhi (口脂) or Chunzhi (唇脂) as early as the Northern Wei Dynasty. Agricultural scientist Jia Sixie documented their production in Qimin Yaoshu: "When marrow is scarce, blend with beef tallow. Without marrow, tallow alone suffices. Steep cloves and patchouli in warm wine. Simmer with equal parts moisture - retaining agents, adding artemisia for color enhancement. Filter through silk into porcelain or lacquerware to solidify. For lip balm, mix with vermilion and wrap in green oil." Historical lip colors included: 💄 Jiangse (绛色): The quintessential "China red" described in Shuowen Jiezi as "grand crimson," immortalized in poetry like "Silent are the crimson lips and beaded sleeves." 💄 Zhuhong (朱红): A red - orange hybrid resembling imperial palace walls, praised as "Fragrant balm precedes vermilion lips' movement." 💄 Tanse (檀色): A light mauve akin to modern nude shades, depicted as "Delicate green imprints eyebrow traces, while pale tan tints fading…- 1
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Zhao Lusi's Tang Style Evolution in Pearl Curtain and Jade Screen
Zhao Lusi's latest Tang Dynasty-inspired look in 'Pearl Curtain and Jade Screen' has fans reminiscing about her iconic Le Yan (乐嫣) character from 'The Long Ballad' (长歌行). While both styles draw from the Tang Dynasty aesthetic, there are notable differences that showcase her versatility in portraying historical roles. Le Yan's Hairstyle in 'The Long Ballad' In 'The Long Ballad', Zhao's Le Yan character sported the classic 'Bunny Ear' hairstyle, known as Baiheji (百合髻) or Lily Bun. This double-bun style, often with a center part or crisscross design, was popular during Emperor Taizong's reign (627 - 649 AD). Historical records from Ma Gao's 'Notes of Past and Present China' describe it as one of the signature hairstyles of early Tang Dynasty, perfectly complementing Zhao's sweet and youthful appearance. Hairstyle in 'Pearl Curtain and Jade Screen' The 'Pearl Curtain and Jade Screen' presents a more mature interpretation of Tang fashion. Zhao's character wears a single bun hairstyle, reminiscent of the Qiu Ji (囚髻) or Prisoner's Bun popular in mid - late Tang Dynasty. The styling features thinner, more voluminous sideburns creating a 'Chan Bin' (蝉鬓) or Cicada Wing effect - a delicate framing technique that mimics the transparency of cicada wings using… -
Ren Min's Eyebrow Transformation in Splendid Peace
In the popular drama 'Splendid Peace,' Ren Min's makeup has garnered significant attention, particularly her eyebrows, which dramatically enhance her facial features. In traditional Chinese makeup, the 'Emei' (蛾眉) or 'Moth Eyebrows' have been a long - standing trend. Described in ancient texts like 'Chu Ci' (楚辞) and 'Li Sao' (离骚), these eyebrows are slender, curved, and long, resembling the antennae of a silkworm moth. Historically, silkworm farming was a vital agricultural tradition, and even empresses participated in sericulture rituals, making the moth - inspired makeup unsurprising. Over time, the term 'Emei' evolved from a specific style to a general reference for various eyebrow shapes. For instance, during the Tang and Song dynasties, styles like 'Echi' (蛾翅) or 'Chuizhu Mei' (垂珠眉) emerged. In 'Splendid Peace,' Ren Min sports the 'Yueleng Mei' (月棱眉), also known as 'Qu Yue Mei' (却月眉), which resembles a crescent moon with a sharp upper edge and a softly blended lower edge. Other similar styles include 'Lianjuan Mei' (连娟眉), 'Liu Ye Mei' (柳叶眉), and 'Yuanshan Mei' (远山眉). These curved, elongated eyebrows suit most face shapes but are particularly flattering for round or broad faces, adding a sense of space and layered beauty reminiscent of Chinese ink paintings.… -
The Revival of Authentic Child Hairstyles in Period Dramas
A Shift Towards Historical Accuracy For years, historical dramas have enchanted audiences with their lavish costumes, intricate sets, and grand storytelling. However, one aspect often overlooked is the accuracy of children’s hairstyles. Many period dramas have traditionally styled young characters with adult-like hairdos, giving them a "miniature adult" appearance that lacks the playful authenticity of childhood. Recently, however, a shift has begun, and productions like Jia Ye (家业), Flourished Peony (国色芳华), and Joy of Life (庆余年) are finally embracing historically accurate child hairstyles, leading viewers to exclaim: "So this is what ancient children really looked like!" The Evolution of Child Hairstyles in Ancient China Ancient Chinese children's hairstyles were far from uniform; they evolved through different stages as the child grew. Similar to modern times, children in historical China had distinct hair grooming traditions, beginning with shaved heads in infancy, moving to partially grown and styled hair, and eventually progressing to more formal hairstyles in adolescence. The idea that children must wear miniature versions of adult hairstyles is a modern misconception that certain period dramas are now correcting. Infancy: The Shaved or Minimal Hair Phase In early childhood, many children had their heads shaved regularly to promote hair growth, a… -
Ming Dynasty Jewelry in "Nirvana in Fire 2"
As someone deeply passionate about historical clothing and accessories, people often ask me: "Does your knowledge of ancient fashion ruin your enjoyment of period dramas?" The answer is—quite the opposite! In fact, it adds another layer of enjoyment, turning each viewing into a treasure hunt for accurate details (or amusing anachronisms). Take "Nirvana in Fire 2" (琅琊榜之风起长林), for example. The series boasts stunning visuals, but as I watched, I couldn't help but notice a curious detail—the jewelry worn by characters like Empress Xun (荀皇后) and the Grand Lady of Laiyang (莱阳太夫人) bore striking similarities to Ming Dynasty designs. However, their application in the drama was... unconventional, to say the least. It appears that the production team sourced historically inspired pieces but missed the mark on how they were actually worn. Filigree Gold Phoenix Hairpins One of the most eye-catching pieces worn by Empress Xun is a set of three gold phoenix hairpins (累丝嵌宝石金凤簪). These exquisite accessories have a real-life counterpart: they are modeled after jewelry unearthed from Ming Dynasty imperial tombs in the western suburbs of Beijing. These tombs, unfortunately looted and excavated long ago, left behind only fragments of their once-lavish burial artifacts, yet what remains showcases remarkable craftsmanship.… -
The Misunderstood Beauty of Li Jingxun’s Golden Moth Hairpin
In the world of ancient Chinese jewelry, few pieces have captured the imagination of modern enthusiasts quite like the so-called "Moth Crown" attributed to Li Jingxun (李静训), a young noblewoman from the Sui Dynasty. However, recent scholarly insights reveal that this exquisite artifact is not a crown at all, but a hairpin—a detail that has been overlooked in popular reproductions and adaptations. This revelation not only corrects a historical misconception but also deepens our appreciation for the intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance of this remarkable piece. The Misidentified "Crown" The hairpin, often mistaken for a crown, is a stunning example of Tang Dynasty jewelry. It belongs to the category of buyao (步摇, step-shaking ornaments), which were designed to sway gently with the wearer’s movements. Shen Congwen (沈从文), in his seminal work Research on Ancient Chinese Clothing (中国古代服饰研究), refers to it as a "moth-and-flower hair ornament," (闹蛾儿扑花首饰) while archaeological reports describe it simply as a "hair accessory." The confusion likely stems from the fact that most images of the artifact show only a partial view, leading many to assume it was a crown. However, crowns typically have a base structure, which this piece lacks. Instead, it is a multi-pronged hairpin, a… -
The Art of Ancient Chinese Masks: From Rituals to Cinema
In recent years, intricate half-face masks have become a popular accessory in historical dramas, leaving many viewers wondering: how did these delicate ornaments stay securely on the wearer’s face? The answer lies in the ingenious design of ancient Chinese masks, which have evolved over millennia, blending functionality with artistry. These masks, far from being mere decorative items, hold deep cultural significance and offer a fascinating glimpse into China’s rich heritage. The Mechanics of Ancient Masks At first glance, these masks appear to float effortlessly on the face, but a closer look reveals their practical design. Typically, they are secured by ties at the sides, fastened at the back of the head. A subtle groove along the nose bridge ensures the mask stays in place, preventing it from slipping. This clever combination of ties and structural support allowed wearers to move freely without fear of their masks falling off. Masks in Ancient China While some might associate such masks with Western traditions, China boasts a long history of intricate mask-making, dating back to the Shang and Zhou dynasties. The most iconic examples come from the Sanxingdui and Jinsha archaeological sites, where gold and bronze masks were unearthed. These masks, often depicting… -
Song Dynasty Fashion: The Truth About Pearl Makeup
The Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD) is often romanticized for its elegance and sophistication, particularly in fashion. One of the most iconic beauty trends of the era was the "pearl makeup," where women adorned their faces with tiny pearls. But did the number and placement of these pearls signify social status or rank? The answer, surprisingly, is no. Pearl Makeup: A Universal Trend Contrary to popular belief, the use of pearls in makeup during the Song Dynasty was not regulated by social hierarchy. While the imperial court had strict rules for official attire and ceremonial dress—such as the number of dragons or phoenixes embroidered on robes—there were no such guidelines for pearl makeup. Pearls were a universal fashion statement, embraced by women across all social strata. The pearls were typically applied to specific areas of the face: between the eyebrows, along the temples, and on the cheeks. These placements were not arbitrary but followed aesthetic principles that highlighted the natural contours of the face. However, the number of pearls used was entirely a matter of personal preference and financial means, not rank. Pearls as a Symbol of Wealth While the number of pearls did not denote social status, their abundance often…- 1
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58-Year-Old Carmen Lee Stuns in Hanfu
Carmen Lee (李若彤), the actress best known for her iconic role as the "Dragon Girl" in Return Of The Condor Heroes (神雕侠侣), has once again captured the public’s attention—this time, not for her acting, but for her breathtaking appearance in Hanfu, traditional Chinese clothing. At 58, Lee’s grace and poise have left fans in awe, proving that true beauty transcends age. Whether in modern attire or ancient garments, she exudes a blend of elegance and strength that continues to inspire. A Perfect Match for Song Dynasty Style Lee’s recent Hanfu looks draw inspiration from the Song Dynasty, a period renowned for its understated yet sophisticated fashion. Her outfits typically feature a cross-collar blouse paired with pleated skirts, a classic combination that reflects the refined taste of noblewomen from that era. The addition of a pibo (披帛, a long silk scarf) adds a touch of fluidity and grace, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Her makeup, reminiscent of the Tang and Song dynasties’ Feixia style (飞霞妆), involves a light layer of rouge topped with white powder, creating a delicate, rosy glow. This technique, also seen in Liu Yifei’s (刘亦菲) portrayal in A Dream of Splendor (梦华录), complements warm skin tones beautifully, making it…- 0
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Exploring the Historical Context and Makeup Trends of Huadian in Cdramas
Have you mesmerized by the makeup of "A Journey to Love"? The beauty level is comparable to the grand award of Huadian in ancient costume dramas. BAZAAR brings you a look at the use of the Huadian in recent Chinese TV dramas and its history. As the chosen one of ancient times, Liu Shi Shi made a graceful appearance with a transcendent snow dance, dressed in a flowing red gown, with a graceful figure. The red of the Huadian between her eyebrows and the white of the snow complemented each other, making her as beautiful as a painting. After entering the palace, she abandoned her fierce killer aura and her presence became gentle and hazy. Her usual elegant attire, paired with the Huadian, exuded a cool and charming aura. The costume and makeup of other characters are also praiseworthy. He Lan Dou, who plays Princess Yang Ying, went from being overlooked to becoming the empress, and the appearance of the Huadian perfectly corresponded to her growth trajectory. Chen Xiao Yun's Huadian makeup in the role of noble consort Chu emanated a pure and captivating charm, making her beauty irresistible. Chen Du Ling, who caused a stir with her appearance, portrayed…- 1
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Chinese Beauty Secrets and Ancient Skincare Methods
Without a doubt, China has some of the most convenient and effective skincare culture and products in the beauty industry. Just like AKT’s eco-friendly deodorant collection, traditional Chinese beauty products are made from ingredients straight from the bosoms of Mother Nature. Because China is rich in culture, many of their skincare practices date back to centuries ago and the routines we adopt can be traced back to them. Their beauty rituals have been passed down through generations like an heirloom. So, if you want to have flawless glass-like skin like the Chinese, we’ll let you in on some of their beauty secrets. 1. Jade Rollers and Gua Sha Stone for Face Sculpting Face sculpting is one of China’s oldest beauty practices. Jade rollers and Gua Sha stones were used to target acupuncture points and allow for better blood circulation. But it goes way deeper than that. In China, having a v-shaped or egg-shaped chin is the beauty standard. So, people use jade rollers and the gua sha stone as face sculpting tools that also help with lymphatic drainage. To them, a less puffy face is more attractive than full lips and doe eyes. Today, these face-sculpting tools are used all…- 3
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