Lan Xi

When actress Lan Xi (斓曦), celebrated for her role as Shen Meizhuang (沈眉庄) in the television series, recently shared images of herself dressed as Lin Daiyu (林黛玉) from the classic 1987 adaptation of The Dream of Red Mansions (红楼梦), she ignited a fervent discussion among fans. Paying homage to the iconic wedding look of the character made famous by Chen Xiaoxu (陈晓旭), Lan Xi expressed that portraying the ethereal Lin Daiyu was a long-held personal ambition. Yet, while many admired her dedication, a significant number of viewers voiced a different opinion: her dignified aura might be a better fit for another character from the epic tale, the tragic You Erjie (尤二姐). This debate does more than just compare actresses; it opens a fascinating window into the intricate world of traditional Chinese costume and its powerful role in shaping a character's identity on screen. The Beizi's Timeless Grace The most striking element of Lan Xi's portrayal is the Beizi (褙子), a long, elegant outer garment that defines Lin Daiyu's visual identity in the 1987 series. This particular style of robe, which gained prominence during the Song and Ming dynasties, is characterized by its straight collar, front opening, and long, narrow sleeves.…