Zhang Miaoyi

Costume design in Chinese historical fantasy dramas has transcended mere aesthetics, becoming a powerful narrative force. Recent leaks from New Tales of Liaozhai (聊斋新编) showcase this evolution, with actresses Zhang Miaoyi (张淼怡), Ju Jingyi (鞠婧祎), and Chen Duling (陈都灵) redefining the iconic fox spirit archetype. Their radically different interpretations—Zhang’s ethereal fragility, Ju’s doll-like perfection, and Chen’s chilling duality—ignite debates on whether transformative makeup elevates artistry or obscures identity. These visuals don’t just adorn characters; they rewrite folklore for the digital age. Zhang Miaoyi’s Ethereal Metamorphosis Zhang Miaoyi’s fox spirit in New Tales of Liaozhai shatters expectations. Clad in windswept white robes, she embodies fractured elegance. A single leaf clenched between her teeth becomes an organic accessory, contrasting with the character’s supernatural essence. This marks a stunning departure from Zhang’s prior roles criticized for lacking dimension. The genius lies in contemporary styling techniques. Delicate hairpieces and gradient makeup sculpt her features without drastic alteration. Diffused lighting enhances her porcelain skin, creating a ghostly luminescence. Where Zhang once blended into ensembles, she now commands them through nuanced vulnerability. Fragility defines this interpretation. Her posture suggests weightlessness, as if a breeze might dissolve her form. Wide-eyed glances convey ancient sorrow, transforming traditional fox…