Makeup & Hairstyle

An online discussion has erupted around the distinctive headwear worn by actor Xu Zhengxi (徐正溪) in the historical drama Yong'an Dream (永安梦). Instead of the typical ornate crowns, his character sports a cap with what appear to be two small, curious eyes peeking out from the top. This unique design has captivated viewers, with many joking that only he could carry off such a peculiar look. The answer to this sartorial mystery lies not in a costume designer's whim, but deep within the fashion history of ancient China. This headpiece is a gateway to understanding the practicalities and social codes of attire during a dynamic period in Chinese history. The Hat's True Identity The cap is known as a Pingjin Ze (平巾帻). A Ze was a type of informal cap worn under more formal headpieces, and its use dates back to the Han Dynasty. It became particularly popular from the Wei and Jin periods through the Sui and Tang dynasties, frequently worn by military officials. The two horizontal protrusions that resemble eyes are not decorative. They are the ends of a horizontal hairpin called a Zan Dao (簪导), which was used to secure the cap firmly to the wearer's hair.…

When Xin Yunlai (辛云来) appeared in behind-the-scenes photos for the new historical drama The Ming Dynasty Youth (明月录), set in Ming Dynasty China, social media erupted with comments about his costume. Many users claimed his wide-brimmed hat resembled styles from Korean historical dramas, igniting a debate over cultural influences. However, this headwear is actually a traditional Chinese item known as Damao (大帽), commonly worn by scholars and officials during the Ming era. This misconception highlights a broader issue where media portrayals can blur historical origins, leading audiences to misattribute cultural elements. As historical shows gain global popularity, understanding the authentic roots of such attire becomes crucial for preserving heritage and fostering accurate cultural appreciation. The drama, starring Xin Yunlai and Wang Churan (王楚然) in their first Ming-era collaboration, serves as a reminder that entertainment can shape perceptions, making it vital to delve into the facts behind the fashion. Hat Origins The Damao featured in The Ming Dynasty Youth is characterized by its broad, straight brim and varied shapes, from tall to short, and round to nearly square. Crafted from materials like bamboo, palm leaves, or felt, it was designed for practicality, offering protection from sun and wind during outdoor activities.…

In ancient China, a luxuriant beard was the ultimate symbol of masculine maturity and charm. Historical portraits and literary classics are filled with descriptions of venerable men distinguished by their impressive facial hair. Yet in contemporary China, from the bustling streets of Shanghai to the screens of popular television dramas, the bearded face has all but disappeared. This shift raises a compelling question about the evolution of male aesthetics. Why has a feature once so central to a man's identity fallen so dramatically out of favor? The answer lies at the intersection of changing beauty standards, media influence, and a fundamental redefinition of what constitutes male attractiveness today. Historical Significance For centuries, facial hair was far more than a simple biological trait; it was a powerful social signifier. In the hierarchy of classical aesthetics, a fine beard indicated wisdom, virility, and social standing. Historical texts and paintings consistently depict revered figures, from scholars to generals, adorned with beards. The legendary warrior Guan Yu (关羽), a central character in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms (三国演义), is famously remembered as the "Gentleman with the Beautiful Beard." His long, flowing beard was an integral part of his formidable and honorable image, a…

In the popular series Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty Ⅲ: Chang'an (唐朝诡事录之长安), the character Xi Jun (喜君) captivates audiences with her charming hairstyle that resembles rabbit ears. This look has sparked curiosity and admiration online, with many viewers wondering about its name and origins. Far from being a modern invention, this hairstyle has deep roots in Tang Dynasty fashion, where it symbolized youth and vitality. It frequently appears in historical dramas, often paired with traditional attire like Qixiong Shanqun (齐胸衫裙), enhancing the playful and innocent aura of female characters. This article delves into the history, variations, and enduring appeal of this distinctive style, revealing how ancient beauty standards continue to influence today's media. Ancient Origins The rabbit ear hairstyle is broadly categorized as Shuangji (双髻), meaning "double bun." This style was especially popular during the early to high Tang period, characterized by two buns positioned on the head, sometimes with a central gap or crossed sections. Historical records, such as those from the Five Dynasties period, note its prevalence among young women, reflecting societal norms where hairstyles indicated age and marital status. For instance, unmarried girls often wore Shuangji to showcase their youth, while mature women opted for more elaborate…

In the bustling capital of Chang'an, the latest season of Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty Ⅲ: Chang'an ( 唐朝诡事录之长安) showcases a striking visual choice that has captured audience attention. The character of the Princess appears with an oversized Huadian (花钿), a forehead ornament that spans nearly her entire brow, diverging from the subtle accents seen in other period dramas. This bold aesthetic immediately raises questions about its historical accuracy and symbolic intent. Rather than a mere decorative flourish, this large Huadian serves as a narrative device, hinting at deeper layers of personal identity and political statement within the storyline. As viewers, we are drawn into a world where beauty standards intertwine with power dynamics, inviting us to look beyond the surface. Early Tang Fashion During the early Tang dynasty, particularly in the seventh century, women's adornment practices reflected a period of cultural flourishing and experimentation. The exaggerated Huadian, as depicted in artifacts like the Dancing Maid Painting (舞伎图) from the Astana tombs, often covered most of the forehead and was typically painted with pigments like cinnabar for a vibrant, gradient effect. This style was not just about aesthetics; it symbolized a era of confidence and innovation, where women expressed themselves…

In the recent buzz surrounding actress Ju Jingyi (鞠婧祎) and her role in the drama Veil Of Shadows (月鳞绮纪), a simple head wrap has captured audience attention, sparking debates online. This accessory, far from a random costume choice, echoes a practical tradition from ancient China. Known as Pazi (帕子), it served as a everyday solution for managing hair, similar to modern hairbands or scarves. Its appearance in the show highlights how historical elements can blend seamlessly into contemporary storytelling, inviting viewers to look beyond the glitter of ornate hairstyles and appreciate the simplicity of daily life in past eras. This piece of cloth connects us to a time when functionality and fashion intersected in subtle ways, reminding us that some style solutions are timeless. Historical Roots Long before Veil Of Shadows brought it to screen, the head wrap had deep roots in Chinese history, dating back to periods like the Wei and Jin dynasties. Initially, both men and women used these square cloth pieces, often made from fabric scraps, to bundle their hair and maintain a neat appearance. For instance, men frequently wore a style called Zicuo (缁撮), which involved twisting black cloth into a bun-like shape, commonly seen among…

Why Did Pearl Makeup Styles Vary So Greatly in the Song Dynasty? From royal portraits to modern television dramas, the distinctive Zhenzhu Zhuang (珍珠妆), or pearl makeup, has become an iconic representation of Song Dynasty aesthetics. This facial adornment, featuring pearls strategically placed on the face, appears in countless historical productions and contemporary Hanfu fashion. Yet observers quickly notice puzzling differences: some wearers display sparse clusters of pearls, while others boast lavish arrangements covering entire cheekbones. What accounts for this dramatic variation in application and quantity? The answer reveals a fascinating narrative about personal expression, economic status, and cultural practices that transcended rigid social hierarchies. Social Statements Contrary to popular assumption, pearl placement and quantity never reflected official rank or marital status during the Song period. While court regulations meticulously dictated dragon and phoenix motifs on formal headdresses to indicate hierarchy, no edict governed facial pearls. The widespread belief that lower-status individuals wore fewer pearls represents a modern misinterpretation. Historical evidence confirms that pearl adornment functioned as what we might call democratic fashion—accessible in theory to anyone who could acquire pearls, though practical limitations naturally applied. The face offers limited real estate for decoration, with preferred positions including the forehead…

In the fantasy drama Whispers of Fate (水龙吟), the entrance of actress Chen Yao (陈瑶) was not just seen but felt. It was not her lines or a dramatic action that first defined her character, but a piece of historical fashion: a wide-brimmed hat with a sheer veil. This single item, known as a Weimao (帷帽), immediately established an aura of mystery, elegance, and unapproachable grace. It is a prime example of how costume design can serve as powerful, non-verbal storytelling, conveying a character's status and disposition before a single word is spoken. This particular hat has become a recurring visual motif in Chinese historical dramas, captivating audiences with its poetic blend of concealment and revelation. The Weimao's Evolution The Weimao has a rich and practical history. Its predecessor was the Mili (幂篱), an earlier form of face-covering headwear. The primary distinction lay in their dimensions and materials. The Mili was often made of bamboo and featured a long veil or netting designed to cover the entire body, offering protection from wind and sand during travel. It was used by both men and women for its utilitarian function. The Weimao, typically constructed from cloth or silk, had a shorter veil…

When watching Chinese period dramas, viewers often notice characters wearing elegant gowns with long, flowing trains that sweep the ground. This style sparks curiosity about its origins. Is this a genuine element from ancient Chinese fashion, or has it been influenced by Western costume design? The answer lies in a fascinating journey through history, where clothing served as a symbol of status and cultural identity. This article delves into the evolution of these trailing garments, examining their roots in early Chinese dynasties and how they compare to similar trends in Europe. By understanding the past, we can appreciate the blend of tradition and artistic license in modern storytelling. Ancient Roots In the Warring States Period, early forms of trailing clothing appeared, as seen in silk paintings from Chu State tombs. These garments evolved into more structured robes during the Eastern Han Dynasty, where long trains became associated with formal wear for nobility. Over time, this style adapted, influencing later periods like the Tang Dynasty and Song Dynasty. Artworks such as Admonitions of the Instructress to the Court Ladies (女史箴图) depict women in layered outfits with distinct trailing elements, showcasing how these designs were idealized in court life. The persistence of…

Have you ever been watching a historical Chinese drama and noticed something strange on a character's head? In the series Flourished Peony (国色芳华), the actress Yang Zi, who plays the character He Weifang (何惟芳), is often seen wearing a curious square-shaped hair ornament. It looks so modern and geometric that viewers might mistake it for a pixellated mosaic. This is no costume designer's error, but a revival of an ancient tradition. This distinctive accessory, also spotted on characters of noble birth, is a real historical artifact known as a Sheng (胜). Its journey from a practical tool to a sacred symbol and finally a fashionable hairpin is a fascinating story woven through centuries of Chinese culture. Mythical Origins The story of the Sheng begins not on a dressing table, but in the realm of myth. Its earliest association is with the powerful goddess Xiwangmu (西王母), the Queen Mother of the West. Ancient texts like the Classic of Mountains and Seas (山海经·西山经) describe her appearance: she resembles a human but has a leopard's tail and tiger's teeth, with disheveled hair and a Sheng upon her head. She was a deity who governed celestial punishments and disasters. Later interpretations, however, linked her…

In the captivating world of historical dramas, certain costumes stand out and capture the audience's imagination. One such example is the elegant dress worn by Song Qian (宋茜) in the television series Fight for Love (山河枕), which has garnered attention for its ethereal and fairy-like appearance. Set against a backdrop of ancient China, this attire features a unique decorative element that adds a dynamic flow to the skirt, making it seem almost magical. This accessory, often seen as elongated pendants or knots, plays a crucial role in enhancing the garment's visual appeal. But what exactly is this decoration, and how does it contribute to such a mesmerizing effect? This article delves into the details of this ancient art form, exploring its design, historical context, and the subtle ways it elevates traditional clothing. The Elegant Knot At the heart of this enchanting costume lies a distinctive knot known as the Oxalis Knot. This intricate design typically consists of three or four loops arranged in a pattern reminiscent of a cloverleaf. Crafted from slender silk ribbons, it is often used in combinations, such as double knots, to create a layered effect. When attached to the flowing skirts of characters like those in…

In the historical drama Yummy Yummy Yummy (宴遇永安), actress Ni Hongjie (倪虹洁) portrays a noble princess whose hairstyle has ignited widespread curiosity. Perched high on her head is a spiral-shaped bun that many viewers describe as resembling a conch shell. This distinctive look is not a product of creative fancy but a careful reconstruction of a real historical fashion from the Tang Dynasty. During this golden age, China was a crossroads of cultures, and its fashion scene reflected this vibrant exchange. The princess's striking appearance serves as a gateway into an era where hairstyles were bold statements of identity and cultural fusion, challenging modern perceptions of ancient aesthetics and inviting us to explore the stories woven into every strand. Uyghur Hair Origins The conical hairstyle seen in the drama is known as the Huihu ji (回鹘髻), a term that points directly to its origins with the Uyghur people from China's northwestern regions. During the early Tang period, sustained contact through trade and diplomacy allowed Uyghur customs to filter into central Chinese society. This hairstyle involved gathering hair into a tall, pointed bun that could be worn plain or lavishly decorated. Its dramatic silhouette broke from traditional Han styles, immediately marking…

At a recent Vogue event, actress Liu Yifei captivated audiences with an elegant gown and a hairstyle that sparked both admiration and a sense of déjà vu. Her look featured two symmetrical bundles of baby's breath flowers arranged on either side of her head, creating a soft, ethereal version of a classic form. This was not a simple updo; it was a modern, weightless interpretation of a traditional Chinese hairstyle known as Shuang Huan Ji (双鬟髻), a double-knot style historically worn by young, unmarried women. Its immediate appeal lies in this clever fusion—using a contemporary, delicate material to evoke a silhouette deeply rooted in the past, making it feel both fashionable and timelessly beautiful. Historical Roots The double-knot hairstyle has a long history in China. During the Tang Dynasty, a version called the Shuang Chui Ji, or double drooping knots, was popular, often worn by young maids. Positioned near the cheeks, this style naturally conveyed a playful and youthful energy. There were no strict rules for its size or exact placement, allowing it to be adapted to flatter different face shapes. It evolved into variations like the Bang Zhu Tou (蚌珠头), or "clam pearl head," a name that poetically suggested…

In a world where bold, full lips often dominate beauty trends, the ancient Chinese approach to lipstick offers a surprising contrast. For centuries, Chinese cosmetics emphasized subtlety and precision, with lip colors designed to enhance natural features rather than overwhelm them. This philosophy dates back over two millennia, evolving through dynasties like the Tang, where lipstick became both an art form and a cultural symbol. Unlike Western styles that prioritize volume, Chinese traditions focused on delicate shapes and a rich palette of hues, each with its own story. From romantic exchanges in classical literature to economic insights, lipstick in China has always been more than mere decoration—it's a window into societal values and personal expression. Ancient Beginnings The origins of Chinese lipstick trace to the Warring States period, where early forms were derived from natural sources. Yan Zhi (燕支), as it was known, started as a plant-based product made from the juice of red and blue flowers, often mixed into pastes. Historical texts like Essential Techniques for the Welfare of the People (齐民要术) detail recipes blending ingredients such as cloves and animal fats with pigments like cinnabar. This innovative use of organic materials allowed for versatile applications, where the same…

In the quiet halls of the Datong Museum (大同博物馆), a pair of earrings whispers tales from a millennium ago. Crafted during the Northern Wei Dynasty, these ornaments are more than mere jewelry; they are portals to an era of vibrant cultural exchange. Discovered in a tomb along Heng'an Street, the earrings feature intricate designs that blend local artistry with distant influences. Their modern appeal is startling, with clasp mechanisms and elegant chains that mirror contemporary fashion. Yet, they hail from a time when the Silk Road connected empires, and craftsmanship was a language of power and identity. This piece, attributed to a woman named Han Farong, encapsulates a story of fusion and elegance, waiting to be unraveled. Artisan Craftsmanship The earring's design begins with the Linked Bead Pattern, a motif of small, connected circles symbolizing celestial bodies and divine authority. Skilled artisans carved this into the gold ring, framing two dragons that coil around a central lotus. Within the lotus, a serene human face peers out, a detail that merges spiritual symbolism with artistic grace. Below, teardrop-shaped gems—agate, turquoise, and pearls—dangle from finely worked gold settings. Each element, from the millet-grain textures to the circular turquoise mounts, showcases a hands-on…

In a recent television series, actress Dong Jie (董洁) sparked curiosity with her striking hairstyle, adorned with oversized U-shaped hairpins that echo ancient traditions. This visual choice isn't just a random aesthetic; it taps into a rich history of hair accessories from dynasties like Wei, Jin, Tang, and Song. As viewers marvel at how these simple pins transform her look, they uncover a narrative where functionality meets artistry. This article delves into the evolution of these hairpins, their cultural roots, and how they bridge past and present in modern storytelling. Ancient Origins Long before modern beauty tools, ancient China developed the Zhegu Chai (折股钗), a hairpin resembling today's U-pins. Used from the Wei-Jin periods through the Tang and Song dynasties, it served to secure buns and style hair. The term "Zhegu" refers to its prongs—single for a hairpin, double for a Chai, akin to a fork. Early versions were crafted from bone or jade, but as metalworking advanced, gold, silver, and copper became common. These initial designs were minimalist, with smooth surfaces and no elaborate decorations, prioritizing practicality over ornamentation. Over time, the Zhegu Chai evolved to include intricate patterns and three-dimensional shapes. Artisans employed techniques like Leisi (累丝), where…

Why do so many historical dramas get the hairstyles completely wrong? Viewers often see characters with long, flowing locks in settings where this would have been historically inaccurate. From palace halls to battlefields, loose hair dominates the screen, creating a visually striking but historically questionable aesthetic. This stylistic choice raises questions about the balance between creative freedom and cultural authenticity in period storytelling. Hair and Adulthood In traditional Chinese society, hair management marked the transition to adulthood. When young men reached twenty years, they participated in the Guan Li (冠礼), a ceremony where they received their first adult hairpiece. Women underwent a similar ritual called the Ji Li (笄礼) at fifteen. During this ceremony, family members would gather to twist her hair into a mature style secured with hairpins. This transformation signaled her readiness for marriage and adult responsibilities. These ceremonies carried deep social meaning. A person's hairstyle communicated their understanding of social order and personal discipline. The famous saying from The Analects about being "left with disheveled hair and folded garments" illustrated how hairstyles distinguished civilized society from what was perceived as barbaric cultures. Maintaining proper hair arrangements demonstrated respect for the community's values. Contrary to what many television…

At a recent glamorous event, the young musician and actress Ouyang Nana (欧阳娜娜) made a striking departure from the sea of strapless gowns. She opted for an elegant ensemble featuring a cloak, a choice that was both seasonally appropriate and visually captivating. This look, celebrated by fans online, sparks a simple question. How did this ancient garment transition from pure practicality to a timeless fashion statement? The answer lies in a journey that spans centuries and continents, revealing a story of adaptation and enduring style. Ancient Beginnings The cloak's origin is rooted in universal human need. Across different civilizations, people developed simple, oversized garments to shield themselves from harsh weather. The earliest versions were essentially large pieces of material, sometimes with a tie, designed to be draped over the body. Their primary function was straightforward: to block rain and retain warmth. In ancient China, one of the earliest forms was the Suo Yi (蓑衣), a cloak woven from grass or straw. These early designs often separated the hood from the main garment. This separation was a practical consideration, allowing for versatile use. The core design principle was efficiency. For rainwear, the sloped shape allowed water to run off easily. For…

In today's fashion landscape, where body-hugging outfits and defined waistlines dominate, many people feel pressured to conform to restrictive clothing standards. Traditional Chinese attire, however, offers a refreshing alternative by prioritizing natural movement and ease over constriction. Rooted in historical practices, this approach uses intelligent design principles to ensure garments adapt to the wearer, not the other way around. By exploring concepts like added fabric space and fluid silhouettes, we can uncover a philosophy that values comfort and elegance equally. This perspective challenges modern norms and invites us to rethink how clothing should make us feel—empowered, comfortable, and authentically ourselves. As we delve into specific elements, it becomes clear that this isn't just about aesthetics; it's about fostering a healthier relationship with what we wear every day. The Fangliang Principle At the core of traditional Chinese clothing is Fangliang (放量), which involves intentionally adding extra space to garments beyond basic body measurements. This design choice ensures that clothes move with the wearer, allowing for a full range of motion without sacrificing style. For example, sleeves are often extended by at least 10 centimeters past the fingertips, enabling them to drape gracefully or cover hands during formal occasions. This not only…

When Guan Xiaotong (关晓彤) appeared on the variety show Ace vs Ace (王牌对王牌) wearing a delicate headpiece and flowing robes, social media buzzed with admiration. Viewers praised her outfit as more striking than many red-carpet looks, noting its fresh, elegant appeal. This style drew from Song Dynasty fashion, featuring a blue-and-white color scheme that evoked clarity and grace. The ensemble included a long-sleeved robe and a cape, but the standout was a lightweight, intricate crown adorned with peony motifs. Unlike heavier historical versions, this modern interpretation used contemporary materials for comfort, making it a hit among audiences. This revival isn't just about aesthetics; it reflects a growing interest in blending traditional elements with today's trends, showing how ancient designs can feel both timeless and new. Historical Roots During the Song Dynasty, women from all social classes embraced ornate headwear, as documented in texts like Dreams of Splendor of the Capital City (东京梦华录). These records describe bustling markets where vendors sold hair accessories, including various crowns, highlighting their popularity. One common type was the Tuanguan (团冠), a round crown often made from bamboo, leather, or metal, and sometimes decorated with pearls or floral patterns. Its circular shape symbolized harmony and was…

In the historical drama The Prisoner of Beauty (折腰), actress Song Zuer (宋祖儿) portrays a character whose hairstyle features an elegant hair comb, sparking curiosity about ancient customs. This accessory is not merely decorative; it represents a practice with roots stretching back over five millennia. Throughout Chinese history, combs transitioned from simple tools to sophisticated ornaments, reflecting changes in society, fashion, and personal expression. The sight of a comb nestled in a hair bun invites questions about how daily objects became symbols of beauty and status, weaving functionality with artistry in ways that still captivate today. Early Origins The journey of hair combs began in the Neolithic period, as early societies sought ways to manage hair for practical reasons. Initially, people may have used their fingers or rudimentary implements, but over time, dedicated combs emerged. Archaeologists have uncovered combs made from bone, wood, and stone at ancient sites, indicating their widespread use. These early versions were likely designed to prevent hair from obstructing tasks like hunting or farming, but they soon took on greater significance as personal grooming evolved. By the Warring States period, combs started serving decorative purposes alongside their practical functions. Excavations from this era reveal combs with…

Why does this actress radiate such noble elegance? In the television drama Love's Freedom (许我耀眼), the character of Sister Lan (岚姐), portrayed by actress Wen Zhengrong (温峥嵘), has captivated audiences with her poised and aristocratic demeanor. Her roles often depict matriarchs from influential families, leading many to wonder about the origins of this refined aura. The answer lies not just in stellar acting, but in the meticulous recreation of historical attire and adornments, where every accessory tells a story of status, culture, and artistry. Jade's Timeless Allure In Love's Freedom, Sister Lan's wardrobe is defined by minimalist, solid-color outfits that allow her jewelry to command attention. A prominent feature is her magnificent Feicui (翡翠) jade pendant. In ancient China, jade was far more than decoration; it was a definitive marker of a woman's family background and social standing. The quality of a piece was judged rigorously on its color saturation, translucency, and the absence of flaws. Wearing high-quality jade was a silent, powerful statement of nobility and refined taste. The history of the term "Feicui" is fascinating. Its earliest mentions, such as in the Han Dynasty text Huainanzi (淮南子), refer not to the green stone we know today, but to…

When a recent photo of Liu Yifei wearing a stylishly knotted scarf surfaced online, it sparked a wave of nostalgia and curiosity. Many fans were quick to note how her fashion choice seemed to mirror ancient Chinese aesthetics, leading to questions about whether this was a mere coincidence or a subtle nod to historical traditions. This connection highlights a fascinating aspect of fashion history that often goes unnoticed. Long before scarves became global accessories, they had a rich legacy in China, where they were known as Lingjin (领巾). These items were not just for adornment but served practical purposes, blending seamlessly into daily life across various dynasties. The resemblance between modern scarf styles and those depicted in ancient artworks is striking, suggesting that some elements of fashion are timeless. This article delves into the evolution of the scarf in Chinese culture, exploring its origins, transformations, and enduring appeal in contemporary times. Historical Origins In the Northern and Southern Dynasties, early forms of scarves began to appear in artworks and texts. One notable example is the painting Northern Qi Collating Classic Texts (北齐校书图), which depicts women wearing Lingjin tied in simple knots at the chest. These accessories were shorter and wider…

In recent online trends, a luxurious fabric called Fuguang Jin (浮光锦) has captured public imagination, often described as a shimmering, rain-resistant textile worth fortunes per meter. Its mentions in popular historical dramas like Empresses in the Palace (甄嬛传) and Legend of Zang Hai (藏海传) have fueled curiosity, portraying it as a coveted material in imperial courts. However, digging deeper reveals a tangled web of historical fiction and modern marketing. This fabric, praised for its mythical properties, might be nothing more than a cleverly spun tale from ancient literature. As we sift through facts and folklore, the true story behind Fuguang Jin emerges—one that challenges our perception of cultural authenticity and the allure of ancient craftsmanship. Historical Sources The primary reference to Fuguang Jin comes from the Tang Dynasty text Du Yang Za Bian (杜阳杂编), a collection of stories blending reality with fantasy. This book describes the fabric as a tribute from the Gaochang (高昌) Kingdom in 825 CE, noting its dazzling appearance under sunlight and remarkable water resistance during a rainstorm. According to the account, it was woven with silk that resisted dyeing and adorned with pearls, creating a garment that left onlookers in awe. Yet, the narrative lacks specifics…