In the summer of 2025, Chen Feiyu returned to the spotlight with his new drama When Destiny Brings The Demon (献鱼). His role as Sima Jiao shattered the usual image of the flawless male lead in xianxia dramas, immediately stirring heated discussion online. According to data from Detawen, since its premiere on August 16, 2025, When Destiny Brings The Demon has crossed 9700 in popularity on Youku's in-app index. At the same time, the "character contribution rate" for Sima Jiao—essentially measuring how much his presence drives the drama's popularity—soared to a peak of 46%. Chen's performance is widely credited as a key factor behind the show's surging momentum. Social media comments show just how much the role has clicked with viewers: "In this B-king lane, our 'Shizu' (师祖, literally 'ancestral master,' here used playfully to refer to Sima Jiao) has endless tricks up his sleeve." "The unhinged Shizu is crazy but I adore him." "The tsundere Shizu spoiling someone with bossy tenderness? Hot." "Finally, the fantasy of the overworked employee getting pampered by their boss comes true." These reactions highlight more than just a trending character—they also signal Chen Feiyu's progress as an actor. From the inexperienced Ning Que in…

The summer drama battlefield ended with This Thriving Land (生万物), but the second half of the year has only just begun. Every year, once summer vacation is over, the drama market slips into a brief "hibernation." By this point in 2025, most of the heavyweight titles have already been consumed in the first half of the year. Still, the Qixi Festival (Chinese Valentine's Day, usually in August) brought fresh promo pushes: Chasing Jade (逐玉), Blossoms of Power (百花杀), Speed and Love (双轨), Love Beyond the Grave (慕胥辞), Our Dazzling Days (烟花少年), and Banquet at Yong'an (宴遇永安) all dropped new teasers. Rumors suggest many of them are lining up for a Q4 2025 to Q1 2026 release. Looking back at past winter holiday schedules, the family-friendly and comedy slots tend to dominate. Period pieces with an ensemble touch have also done well here—titles like Always On The Move (南来北往), Six Sisters (六姊妹), Perfect Match (五福临门), and Legend of the Undercover Chef II (鹊刀门传奇第二季) all pulled solid ratings in this timeframe. On the production side, platforms aren't rushing into large-scale historical projects just because of the latest supportive policies. They're keeping things steady. Over the past month, most new shoots have been…

My most vivid memory of Yu Menglong (于朦胧) remains the image of him as the young man holding an umbrella in A Umbrella of Misty Rain (一伞烟雨). During a shoot, he wore a light green round-collar robe, a Futou (幞头), and black boots—like a "zanhua shaonian" (簪花少年) stepping out of a classical painting. Zanhua and Youth In the behind-the-scenes footage, he pointed to the Zanhua on his Futou, saying they represented unyielding spirit and hope for the future. "Flowers and youth" are the purest romance, and this set of photos became my ultimate template for the "zanhua shaonian" image. Zanhua is more than an ornament; it's a symbol of hope. As early as the Tang Dynasty (618–907) and popular in the Song Dynasty (960–1279), Zanhua was worn by young talents and successful individuals. At the "Qujiang Banquet" celebrating new Jinshi (进士), youths used Zanhua to express their ambitions and confidence. The tanhuashi (探花使) was a young graduate. He would ride through the capital collecting flowers, and this activity culminated in composing poems at Qionglin Garden to welcome the top scholar. This is what the poet described: "Riding on a galloping horse with spring breeze, seeing all Chang'an flowers in a day." Career…

Many viewers who grew up watching Chinese costume dramas recall the grand Phoenix Hairpins. These are ornate hairpieces made of gold, silver, or velvet flowers, and they often adorned characters like queens or noblewomen. These pieces were so luxurious that people often wondered: Why have such grand hairpins become rare in today’s costume dramas? The answer lies in evolving aesthetics and character design. Each generation has its own taste, but hairpieces must serve character portrayal and match actors’ features. Older Phoenix Hairpins suited the rounder face shapes common among actors in the past, while today’s preference for "white, young, and slim" aesthetics makes such large hairpieces less flattering on modern actors. The Most Memorable Phoenix Hairpin: Wang Xifeng The most iconic Phoenix Hairpin comes from A Dream in Red Mansions (红楼梦). When Wang Xifeng, a feisty noblewoman, first appears in Chapter 3, she wears a "gold-thread eight-treasure pearl bun" and a "sunrise five-phoenix pearl hairpin". Imagine five phoenixes each holding a string of pearls, with a large bead or mirror in front to mimic sunlight — the craftsmanship is breathtaking. The "gold-thread eight-treasure pearl bun" is actually a Diji (䯼髻), a metal hair frame shaped like a steamed bun, often…

Have you ever spotted a tiny spoon dangling from a character’s hair in a historical drama and wondered about its purpose? This intriguing accessory, far from being a random prop, is a traditional Earpick Hairpin, a brilliant testament to ancient Chinese ingenuity. Blending everyday utility with elegant adornment, this object reveals a practical and artistic approach to life that resonates across centuries. More Than Decoration The Earpick Hairpin first appeared during the Shang Dynasty and gained widespread popularity from the Song to the Qing dynasties. Crafted primarily from gold, silver, or bronze, and occasionally from jade, it featured a spoon on one end for cleaning ears and a pointed stem on the other to secure it in the hair. This design allowed the wearer to use it conveniently and then return it to its place as a hair ornament. Decoration soon became as important as function. Artisans employed techniques like openwork carving and filigree, sometimes adding jewels or enamel, to transform these tools into exquisite pieces of art. Variations emerged, including hairpins with multiple spoons or additional prongs, clearly intended more for show than daily use, showcasing the wearer’s status and taste. The innovation did not stop there. The Tang…

Walk down a modern city street, and you might spot a figure in flowing robes, hair adorned with Buyao Zhuchai (步摇珠钗), as if stepping out of an ancient painting. That’s Hanfu – a traditional garment making a comeback, but its meaning goes far beyond fashion. It’s a living bridge to China’s thousand-year-old culture, a piece of history worn with pride. Symbols Woven in Threads Hanfu, short for "Han Ethnic Traditional Clothing", is not just fabric stitched together. It’s a cultural symbol, a tangible reminder of who the Han people are. Every line, every fold, carries the weight of centuries. The Zuo Zhuan (左传), an ancient historical text, says: "China is called Xia for its grand rituals; Hua for its beautiful clothing." The very name "Huaxia" – what the Han people call themselves – ties identity to clothing. Hanfu embodies ancient values: hierarchical order, ethical cultivation , and aesthetic ideals. It’s not just clothes; it’s a language of culture. Take the "jiaoling youren" (交领右衽) – the cross-collar that overlaps to the right, forming a Y-shape. This isn’t a random design; it reflects the belief that "right is honorable," a core part of traditional ethics. Ribbons replace buttons, symbolizing harmony and inclusivity.…

The Journey of Legend, a Wuxia drama starring Cheng Yi (成毅) as Xiao Qiushui (萧秋水), reaches a defining turning point in its sixth episode. Xiao Mingming is a modern writer trapped in the game world. Within the story, he goes by the name Xiao Qiushui. The scene where he raises a toast to the Huaan Sect disciples encapsulates a profound shift: he moves from being a "game player" with a god’s-eye view to becoming a true believer in chivalry. This moment not only transforms the protagonist but also plants seeds for another character’s redemption and bridges the gap between fiction and real life. The Protagonist’s Shift For the first five episodes, Xiao Mingming treats the game world as a mere RPG. He stays distant: mocking ancient characters’ choices with modern cynicism, viewing conflicts as "storylines" rather than real struggles. But when he retreats to the Sword Cottage in Episode 6, his father’s words about heroism and his own toast shatter that detachment. "I’ve read countless chivalric tales," he tells the Huaan Sect disciples. "They felt like myths—distant, unreal. But today, you risk your lives for the sect—not for glory, but for belief. This drink is for you." This toast marks…

At first glance, Yang Mi’s latest photoshoot felt like a high-end couture campaign—until you zoomed in on the details. The Qipao she wore, with its ink wash patterns, evoked the exact moment when ink bleeds into rice paper during calligraphy practice: a flow of slate gray on plain white fabric, not a forced vibrant pop but a cool, understated elegance. The frog buttons dangled with tiny tassels, and the slit ran up to her thigh, adding a hint of sexiness that was never crass—just that “everyone gets it but no one can put it into words” kind of sophistication. But what truly set the scene apart was the backdrop: withered trees, bare and lifeless, yet somehow amplifying her presence instead of overshadowing it. Ink Wash Qipao The Qipao’s design is a masterclass in subtlety. The ink wash effect isn’t a bold, manufactured color; it’s a quiet spread, like the way ink seeps into paper when you’re learning to write with a brush pen as a kid. Slate gray on ivory fabric, it carries a “cold” tone—not unwelcoming, but distant enough to feel exclusive. The frog buttons, adorned with delicate tassels, and the high thigh slit balance elegance with allure: every…

Another weekend, another Chinese fantasy drama binge. This time, it was When Destiny Brings The Demon (献鱼), a show that initially promised a delightful escape but ultimately delivered a frustratingly familiar letdown. The series began with an engaging and humorous dynamic between its two leads, offering a fresh take on the well-trodden trope of a modern person transported into a fantasy world. Their chemistry was palpable, their banter witty, and their growing affection felt organic. For the first ten episodes, it was a genuine pleasure to watch. Yet, this promising setup soon unraveled, devolving into a messy spiral of overused clichés and melodramatic excess that left viewers wondering why so many Xianxia (仙侠) dramas follow this same disappointing path. A Promising Beginning The early success of When Destiny Brings The Demon hinged on its charismatic leads and their genuinely funny interactions. The female lead's modern sensibilities clashing with the ancient, mystical world created a fantastic source of comedy. The male lead, a powerful yet aloof figure, found himself constantly bewildered by her unconventional behavior. This "odd couple" formula worked exceptionally well, providing countless moments of levity and charm that hooked audiences immediately. It felt like a breath of fresh air…

Who hasn’t been mesmerized by Tian Xiwei’s (田曦薇) stunning looks in the hit drama Moonlit Reunion (子夜归)? From the flowing Qixiong Shanqun (齐胸衫裙) to the intricate updos adorned with hairpins, let’s uncover the Chinese aesthetic secrets behind these viral styles that have taken the internet by storm. Clothing: Timeless Hanfu Silhouettes Qixiong Shanqun is a signature skirt style for women during the Sui, Tang, and Five Dynasties. Its defining feature is an extremely high waistline—usually positioned above the chest—which elongates the figure and creates a graceful, flowing effect when walking. Tanling Banxiu (坦领半袖) is a standout short outer layer in the Hanfu system. “Tanling” refers to its wide, curved or square neckline, which gracefully reveals the neck and collarbone, while “Banxiu” denotes short sleeves that end at the elbows. Worn over a short inner shirt, it adds depth and layers. Its origins trace back to the upper jacket of the Wei and Jin dynasties, evolving over time into its current form. Duopo Jianse Qun (多破间色裙) gets its name from the number of fabric panels—terms like “six-panel skirt” or “twelve-panel skirt” highlight its complex sewing technique. In the Sui and Tang dynasties, multi-panel skirts were all the rage with high-chest long…

In the fantasy world of Moonlit Reunion (子夜归) , where humans and demons coexist, Wu Zhen’s (武祯) growth isn’t a sudden “power-up” story—it’s a gradual, cat-like transformation: shedding the fragility of a kitten to grow sharp claws and unwavering resolve. From hiding behind a facade of recklessness to facing her identity crisis, from evading responsibility to embracing it, she finally finds balance between her human and banyao (半妖) selves. Once a girl hiding in armor, she becomes a light for herself and others. Hiding in Dual Lives Wu Zhen’s early self was fragmented and vague. As the second young lady of the Yu State Duke’s Mansion, she faced the constraints of being a “proper lady.” As the Mao Gong (猫公), she bore the responsibility of protecting demons. The conflict between these two identities made her use pretense as armor. By day, she was the famous “reckless county lord” of Chang’an—wearing men’s clothes, visiting music halls, teasing her husband—using irreverence to rebel against the expectation that “women must be dignified.” “Since they think I’m reckless, I’ll play the part so no one forces me to do what I hate,” she thought. This facade protected her from societal pressure but blinded her…

When a star steps onto the red carpet in vacation clothes, it does more than surprise—it challenges an entire culture of glamour. On September 7, Chinese actress Jin Chen (金晨), affectionately known as Da Xi (大喜) to her fans, made headlines not for a designer gown but for her ordinary outfit at the closing ceremony of the Waves Film Week in Aranya. Unlike other celebrities who spent hours preparing, she appeared in a casual crop top, jeans, flat shoes, and a simple LV scarf tied around her waist. Her makeup was light, almost bare-faced, as if she had just been strolling along the beach. The reason? She wasn’t even scheduled to attend. She was there as a tourist, invited last minute to walk the carpet. Her unpreparedness became her greatest asset. The Unplanned Walk Jin Chen’s team responded with humor and honesty. Her studio posted on social media, “The red carpet was a last-minute decision, and so was our notification. This is so Da Xi!” Instead of hiding behind excuses, Jin Chen embraced the situation. She joked that she was her own stylist, photographer, and makeup artist that day. A video of her leaving the event went viral—she was seen…

The finale of the romantic fantasy drama Shadow Love (与晋长安) has sparked heated discussions among viewers, not for its grand romantic resolution, but for its perplexing character arc for the female lead. The series, starring Song Yi (宋轶) and Cheng Lei (丞磊), follows the story of a formidable female general whose identity and autonomy are systematically dismantled, all in the name of love. This narrative choice has left many audiences questioning the underlying message it sends about female empowerment in contemporary historical fantasies. A Warrior's Diminishment For the overwhelming majority of the series, Song Yi's character, General Li Shuang (黎霜), is a respected and capable military leader. She commands troops, strategizes in battle, and embodies strength and resilience. Her identity is firmly rooted in her duty to her country and her prowess as a warrior. The audience invests in her journey as a powerful woman navigating the complexities of war and political intrigue within the kingdoms of Yao (姚) and An Nan (谙南王). However, the narrative takes a sharp turn in the final act. After being captured in battle by Duan Aodeng (段敖登), her gradual shift from prisoner to love interest begins. Despite a brief period of harsh interrogation, she…

Have you ever wondered how a single piece of amber jewelry can transform your entire look? Amber, a gemstone as ancient as time itself, carries a warm, organic energy that resonates deeply. Unlike heavier gemstones, it is remarkably lightweight and versatile, making it a favorite among jewelry enthusiasts. Its most common hues are varying shades of yellow and white, though the pristine white amber is a rare and costly find. This article will guide you through innovative ways to style this beautiful resin, moving beyond conventional pairings to create stunning, personalized statements that are uniquely you. Bold Color Clash For those who love to make a statement, the color clash technique is a powerful tool. This approach relies on pairing amber with gemstones in contrasting colors to create a dynamic and eye-catching visual impact. The goal is to achieve a balance where the warmth of the amber is both complemented and challenged by cooler or more vivid tones. Selecting the right companion beads is crucial for this style to work effectively and harmoniously. Excellent choices for this bold style include deep reds like Nanhong agate (南红玛瑙) or Zhanguohong (战国红), rich blues from Lapis Lazuli, and vibrant greens from turquoise or…

Why do so many Chinese historical dramas insist on giving their female characters modern-looking bangs? This stylistic choice, frequently seen in everything from palace intrigues to Wuxia (武侠) adventures, often creates a jarring sense of anachronism for viewers. While intended to beautify the actors and perhaps conceal hairlines, these bangs frequently pull audiences out of the story, reminding them of contemporary fashion rather than immersive historical storytelling. This reliance on a modern aesthetic overlooks a rich tapestry of authentic, elegant hairstyling traditions from China's past that prioritized clean, expansive foreheads and sophisticated updos, proving that true classical beauty doesn't need to hide behind a fringe. The Bangs Anachronism Walk through any streaming platform's historical section, and you will be met with a parade of fringe. The flat bangs, side-swept bangs, wispy "baby hair" bangs, and airy bangs are all direct imports from modern-day hairstyling manuals. Their primary function in these dramas is to soften an actor’s features or mask a perceived high forehead, a concern rooted entirely in contemporary beauty standards. This creates a subtle but persistent dissonance; the elaborate costumes and sets aim for a historical feel, but the hairstyle instantly signals the 21st century. This trend is not…

When actress Tan Songyun (谭松韵) appeared in the new historical drama Against The Current (兰香如故), audiences were stunned. Her look wasn’t just different—it felt like a revelation. Gone were the structured, heavy styles of her previous Ming-era roles. In their place was something lighter, more poetic, and deeply rooted in classical Chinese aesthetics. This transformation wasn’t accidental. It was the result of deliberate, historically-informed styling centered around an ancient Han Dynasty hairstyle known as Ji Huan (髻鬟). This style did more than just change her appearance—it redefined her character’s grace, elegance, and inner strength, proving that sometimes, the smallest details carry the deepest meanings. The Ji Huan Ji Huan is a traditional hairstyle where hair is arranged into hollow, ring-shaped buns secured at the crown. The term breaks into two parts: Ji, meaning a coiled knot of hair, and Huan, referring specifically to the circular, ringlet form. Unlike solid buns, the hollow design of the Huan creates a sense of volume without weight, giving the hairstyle a floating, almost ethereal quality. This style became popular from the Han Dynasty onward and is frequently depicted in classical court paintings. Its beauty lies in its versatility. It could be worn as a…

In 2016, Lin Yun (林允) became an overnight sensation as the lead in The Mermaid (美人鱼), cementing her status as a “Stephen Chow Muse.” But in an industry where fame fades fast, the 31-year-old recently reclaimed the spotlight—not with a new movie, but a live stream look that’s been dubbed “custard bun sweet.” Raw photos and unfiltered moments have left netizens asking: “Is this really the same Lin Yun? She looks 10 years younger than her age!” The “Custard Bun” Aesthetic Lin’s live stream was a burst of spring warmth. She chose a satin dress in a soft yellow shade—shiny, smooth, and nearly identical to a freshly steamed custard bun. Her hair, styled in a half-up “princess do” with loose, face-framing waves, added to the dessert-like charm. Netizens flooded the chat: “She’s not a custard bun—she’s a custard fairy!” The look was youthful without being cloying, a balance many of her 30-something peers struggle to achieve. The dress itself stole the show. A light luxury brand’s fall new arrival, its satin texture caught the studio lights perfectly, making Lin look like she was wrapped in sunlight. “Even the fabric glows for her!” one user joked. “I’d never wear this color—I’d…

In the historical drama Serenade of Peaceful Joy (清平乐), actress Wang Churan (王楚然) sparked online buzz with a headpiece that viewers likened to a lavish cream cake. This striking ivory crown, worn by her character Zhang Meihan (张妼晗), is far more than a stylistic whim. It is a meticulous recreation of the Chonglouzhi Guan (重楼子冠), a headdress whose design and name were inspired by a prized peony species recorded in the Song Dynasty text Record of Luoyang Flowers and Trees (洛阳花木记). This dramatic accessory opens a window into the sophisticated world of Song aesthetics, where fashion, botany, and social hierarchy intertwined to create some of history's most elegant and meaningful headwear. A Crown Fit for a Flower The real-life inspiration for the crown was the Chonglouzhi peony, cultivated by skilled gardeners to grow over two feet tall with layers of petals that resembled a stacked pavilion. Artisans, captivated by this natural wonder, translated its form into an exquisite headdress. The drama highlights the strict sumptuary laws of the era through a plotline where Emperor Renzong of Song punishes an official for presenting the crown, underscoring how such items were governed by status and regulation. The crown was not merely decorative;…

When watching Tang Dynasty-set dramas, have you ever wondered why some female characters wear hats with long veils covering their faces—or even their entire bodies? These headpieces, often called "face-covering hats" in period shows, come in varying styles: some veils drape to the shoulders, others sweep down to the ankles. But what lies behind these differences? Were ancient women truly hidden so thoroughly, or was there more to these hats than meets the eye? Let’s uncover the stories woven into Tang Dynasty headwear—Weimao (帷帽) and Mili (羃篱). Weimao vs Mili: Fabric, Length, and Timeline First, a quick clarification: Weimao and Mili are distinct, though often confused. Weimao, made of cloth or thin silk, features a wide brim with short veils that typically reach the neck—just enough to "lightly cover" the face, as Tang records describe. Mili, by contrast, is crafted from bamboo with longer veils that can shroud the entire body. Their popularity also shifted over time: Mili dominated in the early Tang (618–649 CE), while Weimao rose to fame during Empress Wu Zetian’s reign (690–705 CE) before fading in the Kaiyuan era (713–741 CE). For example, Yang Zi’s Weimao in the drama Flourished Peony (国色芳华) aligns closely with historical…

Why is Liu Xueyi (刘学义) wearing a red velvet drape in his wedding scene? This question has sparked curiosity among viewers of the period drama Against the Current (兰香如故), where the actor’s costume features a striking crimson cloth over his left shoulder. Rather than a costume mishap, this detail is deeply rooted in historical tradition—a symbol of celebration known as Pihong (披红), or “draping red.” Symbol of Achievement During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Pihong was predominantly worn by scholars who had passed imperial examinations. Achieving the title of Zhuangyuan (状元) or Jinshi (进士) was met with great honor, and the draping of red cloth symbolized joy and intellectual triumph. The phrase “spring breeze” captures this euphoric moment—a scholar riding through the capital, admired by all. The fabric used for Pihong was typically lightweight silk, brocade, or fine satin, avoiding bulkiness. In Against the Current, the velvet-like material may seem unusual, but it stays true to the concept of ceremonial draping. Originally reserved for academic achievements, the practice gradually extended to other significant life events. Historical records, such as the Ming novel Joyful Feuds (欢喜冤家·二十三回), describe scholars wearing Pihong with floral headpieces—a duo of honor. This combination highlighted one’s social…