In historical dramas like Kill My Sins, we often see actresses like Liu Shishi (刘诗诗) wearing striped dresses that resemble modern fashion. But did such striped dresses really exist in ancient times? Was the Tang Dynasty that ahead of its time? The answer is yes. These narrow-striped dresses were popular from the early Tang Dynasty to the Wu Zhou period, with origins tracing back to the Han and Jin dynasties. Interestingly, these stripes weren’t printed but were meticulously sewn together. This visual technique to elongate the figure wasn’t a modern invention—our ancestors had already mastered it for a sleek, fashionable look. Their aesthetic was truly scientifically slimming. The Art of Poqun (破裙) Poqun doesn’t mean torn dresses but refers to paneled skirts made by stitching separate fabric pieces. These skirts, dating back to the Han and Jin dynasties, were discovered in the Bijiatan Tomb. They could be pleated or layered, showcasing remarkable flexibility in design. Color Combinations Poqun featured both monochromatic and contrasting colors, the latter called Jianse Qun (间色裙). Early Tang murals often depict red - white, black - white, or blue - white stripes, along with red - blue combinations. Ultra - Narrow Stripes By the early Tang…

In ancient Chinese attire, women often adorned their skirts with decorative ribbons, a practice that might seem peculiar to modern eyes. These were not mere ornaments but held significant cultural and aesthetic value. The Origin of the Waist Ribbon Originally known as Shou (绶), these ribbons were used to hang seals, serving as a symbol of status and rank in early Chinese society. Over time, they evolved into fashionable accessories for women, often tied around the waist with intricate knots and paired with jade rings, earning the name Yuhuan Shou (玉环绶). The knots, typically called Cujiangcao Jie (酢浆草结), resembled the cross - shaped petals of the wood sorrel plant. These knots, made from delicate silk ribbons, could be simple or complex, with three or four loops. They were not only decorative but also functional, helping to weigh down the flowing skirts made of lightweight materials like silk and gauze, ensuring graceful movement. Beyond aesthetics, these ribbons carried deep symbolic meanings. The Cujiangcao Jie was considered a lucky charm, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. More elaborate versions, like the Tuanjin Jie (团锦结), represented abundance and perfection. These ribbons were worn in two main styles: either hanging from the waist as a…

In the animated film Nezha: The Devil's Birth, both Nezha and Ao Bing sport distinctive forehead designs. Many of us might recall having a similar dot on our foreheads during childhood. But what's the story behind this shared symbol? The forehead decoration is known as Huadian (花钿), and it's not unique to this film. Historical depictions of Nezha often feature similar designs. In fact, many of us had these dots as children. Huadian has been popular throughout Chinese history, especially among women and children. These decorations came in various styles, colors, and materials, ranging from flat to three - dimensional. During the Song Dynasty, some were even made of pearls for added elegance. Why Do Children Wear Huadian? While it's understandable why women adorned themselves with Huadian for beauty, why did children wear them? One folk belief suggests that marking the center of the forehead symbolizes the opening of wisdom. A traditional rite of passage called Kaibi Li (开笔礼), or "Breaking the Seal," marks a child's entry into learning. Using cinnabar (a traditional protective substance) on the forehead combines the idea of warding off evil with the hope for intelligence. A more plausible explanation ties Huadian to the Dragon Boat…

In the historical drama Palm Heart, Liu Shishi donned a Tang-style shirt paired with an outer vest, sparking discussions among netizens: Isn't this just a vest? And it can be worn outside? This outer garment, known as Beizi (背子), was a popular style in early Tang Dynasty. It came in various designs, including the Tanling (坦领, open-collar), Jiaoling (交领, crossed-collar), and Jixinling (鸡心领, sweetheart neckline). The Tanling design, in particular, resembles modern-day vests, typically worn over long-sleeved inner garments. Though both Beizi and Banbi (半臂, half-sleeved jacket) were outerwear, they differed in sleeve length. Beizi was sleeveless, while Banbi had half-length sleeves, hence the name. Historical records suggest Banbi predated Beizi, with Emperor Gaozu of Tang shortening the sleeves to create the latter. By the Song Dynasty, Beizi evolved into a more generalized term, Beizi (褙子), encompassing sleeveless, long-sleeved, and mid-length sleeve designs. It became a unisex garment, with men's versions featuring Panling (盘领, round collar) for military officials and Dui Jin (对襟, front-opening) or Jiaoling for scholars. Women's Beizi often had front-opening designs, as depicted in The Dream of the Capital (东京梦华录). This fusion of functionality and style made Beizi a practical choice for daily wear, much like Liu…

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,…

Did ancient Chinese brides really wear red for marrying down and green for marrying up? The short answer is no. This widespread myth, often perpetuated by historical dramas, has little basis in actual Song Dynasty customs or broader ancient Chinese traditions. Let's debunk these misconceptions and explore what people truly wore for weddings in imperial China. Official Attire Dictated Wedding Outfits During the Song Dynasty (960 - 1279 AD), wedding attire followed strict sumptuary laws rather than arbitrary color rules. Officials wore their rank - appropriate court robes - with green representing the lowest rank for men. The Yan Yi Yi Mou Lu historical records confirm newly appointed jinshi (进士, scholars who passed imperial exams) received green robes. Women of nobility wore qing (青, dark blue - green) ceremonial dresses, considered more prestigious than ordinary green. The Prestige of Qing (Dark Blue - Green) Contrary to modern confusion, qing and lü (绿, ordinary green) were distinct colors in ancient China. As documented in the Wen Xian Tong Kao historical text, the Tang and Song courts used purple, crimson, green, and qing to denote official ranks. Noble women's wedding garments like the ju yi (鞠衣), hua dian li yi (花钿礼衣), and…

In the historical drama 'Guo Se Fang Hua,' many viewers noticed that Dong Jie's character, Feng Xiaoyi, stood out with a unique accessory—a piece of fabric wrapped around her chest, commonly referred to as 'Wei Shang' (围裳). This ancient fashion element, often humorously called 'butt curtain' in modern slang, has a rich history and cultural significance. What is 'Wei Shang'? 'Wei Shang,' which translates to 'surrounding skirt,' was a versatile garment in ancient China. It could be a single piece of fabric, multiple panels sewn together, or even a pleated design, depending on the fashion trends of the time. Scholars also refer to it as 'Yao Qun' (腰裙), described in 'The Dictionary of Ancient Chinese Clothing' as a short skirt worn around the waist. Research by Ruan Li from Shanghai University further defines it as a wide band tied around the hips, often adorned with decorative knots or beads. This accessory was not just for aesthetics; it served practical purposes too. In winter, it could be padded with cotton for warmth, while in summer, lighter fabrics were used for breathability. The 'Wei Shang' added layers and dimension to outfits, much like the tiered designs of Western cake dresses. Fashion Trends…

Did you know that ear muffs existed in ancient times? Recent historical dramas like "Tian Geng Ji" and "Jin Nang Miao Lu" have showcased these fluffy ear coverings, which bear a striking resemblance to the ones we use today. The answer is simple: ancient people naturally didn’t want their ears to freeze in winter, so they invented these accessories—though they were primarily used by wealthier families. Names in Ancient China In ancient China, these ear-warming accessories had various names, such as Er Nuan (耳暖), Er Yi (耳衣), and Hu Er (护耳). During the Tang Dynasty, they were called Er Yi (耳衣), specifically designed to protect ears from winter’s harsh cold. The poet Li Kuo once wrote: "The golden belt is heavy, the iron-sewn Er Yi is cold." The word "iron" here was later annotated as "brocade," suggesting that these ear covers might have been made of luxurious brocade or fur. While their exact design remains unknown, murals and figurines hint at two styles: one with long fur strips hanging from the ears and another with fabric covers tied at the sides. Evolution in the Ming Dynasty By the Ming Dynasty, a new iteration called Nuan Er (暖耳) emerged and was…

Recently, the lead actress's look in Princess Agents 2 was revealed, featuring Huang Yangdiantian wearing a double-loop hairstyle known as Shuang Huan Wang Xian Ji, adorned with golden Buyao (步摇) hairpins. Netizens commented that this might be the only look in the series that closely resembles the historical setting of the story. Although Princess Agents is a fictional tale, its backdrop is closest to the Northern Zhou Dynasty of the Northern and Southern Dynasties period, given the prominence of aristocratic families like the Yu Wen clan. During this era, Buyao hairpins were a symbol of status and nobility, which explains why fans are praising this particular look. Buyao is a general term for hair ornaments that sway with movement. It gained popularity among the upper class during the Han and Jin Dynasties, becoming a signature accessory for noblewomen. Historical texts like Shi Ming · Shi Shou Shi from the Han Dynasty describe Buyao as "hairpins with dangling pearls that sway with each step." The Hou Han Shu · Yu Fu Zhi also mentions Buyao as part of the empress's ceremonial attire. These ornaments varied in design, from standalone hairpins to elaborate crowns, often decorated with motifs like trees, flowers, leaves,…

In the historical drama Guose Fanghua, the wedding crowns have sparked much discussion due to their opulence and intricate details. While they appear to be modeled after historical artifacts, a closer examination reveals some discrepancies. This article delves into the fascinating world of these crowns, exploring their origins, design, and the historical accuracy behind them. The Prototype: Empress Xiao's Crown The crown worn by the character He Weifang, played by Yang Zi, seems to be inspired by the crown of Empress Xiao from the Sui Dynasty. Over time, the design evolved through the Tang Dynasty, retaining elements like the Chaidian (hairpins) and Bobin (side ornaments) as markers of status. However, the crown's design in the drama doesn't perfectly align with the character's social standing, as historical records indicate that such crowns were reserved for high-ranking noblewomen. During the Tang Dynasty, women favored high buns, with the height and complexity of the hairstyle reflecting their social status. Noblewomen wore elaborate hair ornaments, including gold hairpins, in symmetrical pairs for formal occasions. The number of Huashu (floral ornaments) and Huadian (floral hairpins) varied by rank, with empresses wearing twelve and first-rank noblewomen wearing nine, decreasing by rank. The Components of the Crown…

In the TV series 'Guo Se Fang Hua,' the wedding crown worn by the county princess has sparked heated discussions. While it was directly modeled after the Li Chui Crown from archaeological findings, many netizens question whether it was 'worn incorrectly.' The answer is that the crown referenced in the show might itself be a beautiful mistake in restoration. Nevertheless, the series remains a well - researched production, though some details still require refinement. Restoration isn't about simple 'copy - paste'—many fragmented or incomplete artifacts require contextual understanding of their era and usage. Minor errors are understandable, and viewers shouldn't judge the entire series based on isolated inaccuracies. Unearthed Situation and Replica Controversy Li Chui, the granddaughter of Emperor Li Yuan, gave up her title for love and had no official rank. However, she might still have been buried with corresponding accessories. When the Li Chui Crown was unearthed, both the crown and hair had disintegrated, leading to potential distortions. The reference prototype, displayed at the Shaanxi Archaeological Museum (not a permanent exhibit), is a controversial replica restored by German experts. The crown's discovery was groundbreaking, as relatively intact Tang Dynasty headpieces are rare. While experts initially proposed various theories,…

In various historical dramas like 'Secret Records of the Brocade Bag' and 'Rain Clouds Over Ink', we often see women wearing a piece of cloth over their heads when going out. These women weren't necessarily heading to weddings - so what was the purpose of this head covering? The answer lies in what was known as the 'Gaitou' (盖头) during the Song Dynasty. The Song Dynasty inherited many systems from the Tang Dynasty, including its clothing customs. According to Zhou Hui's 'Qingbo Magazine': 'Scholars wore cool robes when riding horses, while women walking in public places covered half their bodies with square purple silk veils, commonly called Gaitou, which followed the Tang Dynasty Weimao (帷帽) tradition.' This reveals that the Song Dynasty Gaitou evolved from the Tang Dynasty Weimao. However, there were differences between the two. As noted by scholar Shen Congwen: 'The Weimao was a stiff hat with a hanging net curtain,' essentially a bamboo hat with a black net. The Gaitou was simpler - just a square piece of fabric, often made of silk ('Luo'), that could cover half the body. Shen Congwen wrote: 'The Gaitou was indeed a common head covering for Song Dynasty women.' Gao Cheng…

In the Tang Dynasty, it was considered outdated for women not to wear large flowers in their hair. Today, who would dare to wear such big, red flowers? The Tang people's preference for peony hairpins was inseparable from their love for peonies. Because peonies were sufficiently luxurious and gorgeous, and some rare varieties were even more precious, it was necessary to wear a whole flower to display one's status. Moreover, after wearing a peony, other flowers could not be worn, hence the popular custom of wearing a single large flower on the head. Additionally, the Tang Dynasty's "big head" hairstyle left some blank space, making a large flower appear less "flashy." The most famous example is the "Court Ladies Wearing Flowers" painting, which perfectly illustrates this adornment. This custom of wearing flowers reached its fashion peak during the High Tang period. However, as peonies were not easy to obtain, women also adorned their hair with lotus flowers, crabapple flowers, gardenias, and peonies as symbols of wealth and status. Not only women but also men wore flowers, often on their turbans. Some opted for modest small flowers, while others flaunted large blooms. How much did the Tang people love peonies? Every…

In modern historical dramas, it's common to see characters wearing skirts with extravagant long trains. This naturally raises questions: Are these designs purely for cinematic effect, or were they practical in daily life? Did ancient people really wear such garments without worrying about dirt? Some netizens humorously remark that these skirts could double as mops. Not All Hanfu Had Long Trains First, let's clarify that not all Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) features long trains. While there are indeed styles with trailing hems, these were typically reserved for formal occasions or ceremonial wear, not everyday attire for commoners. Even nobles didn't wear such cumbersome skirts daily—they were reserved for grand, formal events. Exceptions Due to Fashion Trends However, there were exceptions driven by fashion trends. During certain periods, especially in the mid - to - late stages of dynasties, affluent families in society embraced extravagant styles, including wide - sleeved robes and floor - length skirts. This phenomenon, often associated with the 'decadent luxuries' of a dynasty's decline, involved garments worn infrequently, frequently changed, and maintained with the help of servants—thus minimizing concerns about cleanliness. Practicality in Daily Wear For daily wear, practicality was key. Historical artifacts reveal that the average…

Bilibili has become a hub for high-quality Chinese animation, offering diverse genres and fresh storytelling. This list highlights standout titles that resonate with both casual viewers and anime enthusiasts, prioritizing engaging plots and unique styles over abstract praise. The Outcast 一人之下 The Outcast (2016-present) is a Chinese animated series blending urban fantasy, dark comedy, and martial arts. With 5 seasons so far, it follows Zhang Chulan, a college student dragged into the hidden world of "Heteromorphs"—people with supernatural abilities—after his estranged grandfather’s death. Teaming up with the enigmatic, deadpan Feng Baby (who wields kitchen knives and an immortal past), he uncovers family secrets while dodging rival factions seeking ancient power. The show stands out for balancing gritty action with quirky humor. Fight scenes mix traditional Chinese martial arts (like Baguazhang) with creative superpowers—a villain manipulates chess pieces as weapons; another controls paper. The animation, while not ultra-polished, delivers kinetic choreography and distinct character designs, especially in later seasons. Character dynamics drive the story. Zhang Chulan evolves from a cynical slacker to a cunning strategist, using wit rather than brute strength. Feng Baby’s emotionless demeanor hides tragic depth, and villains like the scheming Wang Ye feel layered—driven by ambition, not pure…

Love and Destiny (宸汐缘) is a sweeping celestial romance where gods and mortals clash in a world of divine law, ancient prophecies, and love that defies fate. At its core is the slow-burning relationship between Jiu Chen, a war-weary god bound by cosmic duty, and Ling Xi, a spirited fairy whose very existence threatens to awaken a long-dormant evil. As their bond deepens, loyalties shift, and the cost of love becomes a question not of happy endings, but of whether the world can survive their connection. Can their love endure across three lifetimes—or will it unravel the very heavens? Chapter 1: The Spark of Fate (Episodes 1–10) "A Peach Blossom, a God's Oath, and the Apocalypse in Disguise" Love and Destiny opens not with thunderous wars or grand deities, but with a world haunted by the past. Jiu Chen (played by Chang Chen), the solemn God of War, has returned to the heavenly realm after centuries of sleep following his defeat of the Dark Lord. Though restored in body, he remains emotionally distant, weighed down by the cost of war and the fragility of peace. Enter Ling Xi (played by Ni Ni), a carefree and optimistic fairy living a quiet…

What if your family stood at the peak of honor—only for you to watch it collapse from within? What if the legacy you're meant to carry… is a trap? Would you carry a legacy that could kill you? Welcome to Nirvana in Fire II: The Wind Blows in Changlin—where loyalty bleeds, power devours, and every smile could hide a blade. Chapter 1: The Shadow of the Past (EP 1–10) The story begins not with triumph, but with absence. Years ago, the flames of political treachery consumed the Chiyan Army—an elite force wrongfully condemned for treason, only to be posthumously exonerated through the sacrifice and strategy of Lin Shu, also known as Mei Changsu. His quiet war of wits reshaped the imperial court, dethroned a corrupt crown prince, and placed a young, idealistic emperor on the throne. It was a new beginning—or so it seemed. Now, nearly two decades later, the scars of that past still linger beneath the surface. The once-glorious Changlin Army, formed in the aftermath of Chiyan's tragedy, stands as the empire's last great shield. Led by Prince Xiao Tingsheng—Lin Shu's uncle by blood and brother in arms—the Changlin banner represents discipline, justice, and unwavering loyalty to the…

Before Michelle Yeoh—Michelle Yeoh (杨紫琼)—became a global icon, she was already a standout presence in Chinese-language costume films. While most international fans know her from films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, her roles in historical TV films are just as revealing. These films show a different side of Yeoh: not just a martial artist, but a storyteller navigating dynastic intrigue, loyalty, and sacrifice. Her work in costume films isn't extensive, but it's meaningful. Each project—whether based on classic wuxia novels or original scripts—places her in morally complex roles shaped by tradition, power, and personal duty. She's played warriors, nobles, and strategists, all grounded in different periods of Chinese history. This article highlights some of her most notable films—both mainstream and lesser-known—where history meets performance with striking results. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 卧虎藏龙 Released: 2000 Period Background: Set during the Qing Dynasty, but in a fictionalized jianghu world Genres: Wuxia, Historical Fantasy, Action, film Main Roles: Michelle Yeoh as Yu Shu Lien; Chow Yun-fat as Li Mu Bai; Zhang Ziyi as Jen Yu Adapted From: The fourth novel in the Crane-Iron pentalogy by Wang Dulu The film tells the story of Li Mu Bai, a legendary swordsman who plans to retire…

Fan Bingbing (范冰冰) , known for her magnetic presence in historical dramas, Fan doesn't just act—she resurrects legends. Take The Legend of Wu Mei Niang, where she transforms into Wu Zetian, the Tang Dynasty's ruthless empress. In one scene, Fan's character coldly outmaneuvers a rival, her gaze sharp as the ceremonial dagger she wields. Moments like these—raw, tense, and steeped in history—define her roles. From mischievous maids to cunning monarchs, Fan's performances bridge centuries, offering viewers not just entertainment but a visceral connection to China's dynastic sagas. The Legend of Wu Mei Niang 武媚娘传奇 Aired: 2014–2015 Period Background: Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) Genres: Historical, Political Drama Main Roles: Fan Bingbing as Wu Zetian (武则天), Zhang Fengyi as Emperor Taizong Adapted From: Historical accounts of China's only female emperor Spanning 80 episodes, the series chronicles Wu's ascent from a curious palace maid to China's only female emperor, a journey Fan embodies with striking nuance. Her performance captures both the vulnerability of young Wu Ruyi, who defies court norms by refusing to kneel during her first encounter with Emperor Taizong, and the calculated ruthlessness of the ruler who later dismantles political rivals. A standout moment occurs when Fan's Wu, wielding a ceremonial…

Jackson Yee (易烊千玺) isn't just a pop idol turned actor—he's a master at breathing life into historical roles. From strategists to poets, his costume dramas blend sharp storytelling with meticulous period details, making history feel urgent and relatable. Take The Longest Day in Chang'an, where he plays Li Bi, a Tang Dynasty genius racing against a 12-hour terrorist plot. The series doesn't just showcase palace politics; it thrusts viewers into dusty market alleys and smoke-filled war rooms, with Yi's calm intensity anchoring every scene. Or consider Hot Blooded Youth, where his character A Yi evolves from a revenge-driven orphan to a revolutionary hero, mirroring China's turbulent shift from dynasty to republic. These roles aren't pageantry—they're about flawed, thinking characters navigating crises that still echo today: corruption, identity, and sacrifice. Here are 3 Historical Series with Jackson Yee that you'll love watching over and over again. The Longest Day in Chang'an 长安十二时辰 Aired: 2019 Period Background: Tang Dynasty, during the Tianbao era under Emperor Xuanzong's reign, a golden age marked by cultural prosperity and political intrigue. Genres: Costume suspense, political thriller, action Main Roles: Lei Jiayin as Zhang Xiaojing, a disgraced detective-turned-prisoner; Jackson Yee as Li Bi, a prodigious young strategist.…