Chongqing - Hanfu clothes are not officially defined as a general term for all ancient Chinese fashions. Instead, it is more of a common concept that reflects the idealistic styling of the modern Chinese when they understand their historical ancestry. Initially seen as an underground cult in China, what used to be just a bunch of Chinese traditional costume enthusiasts getting together is now growing roots more deeply felt among the younger generation. These young Hanfu enthusiasts tend to design the clothes and promote the culture domestically and abroad. Due to the manufacturing industry and the social media boom, Hanfu creations can be seen in more regions worldwide. They are presented as a strong self-identification with a unique design and character for Asians' figures and qualities.
Hanfu enthusiasts in Huguang Guild Hall\ Photo provided to iChongqing
2022 marks the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between China and the Netherlands. Aiming to develop cultural communication between Chongqing and its sister cities worldwide, Eiko@iChongqing hosted a live stream show in Huguang Guild Hall, a complex of buildings that functioned as a cultural, business, and social center in Chongqing for over 200 years. Two guests also joined the live stream: Li Zewei, who fell in love with Hanfu 13 years ago and now is a founder of the "Hanfengguyun" community to promote Chinese traditional costume and culture in Chongqing, and Liu Liang, a post 90s Chongqing girl who works in Rotterdam and co-founds a traditional Chinese clothes studio with her friend Michelle, as well as her boyfriend Tristan, a Dutch photographer who's getting more influenced by Chinese culture by capturing the beauty of Hanfu. They shared their experiences and insights in their studio and the newly-opened art depot: Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen.
Liu Liang and her friend dressed her own-designed Hanfu in Den Haag \Photo provided to iChongqing
During the live streaming, the amazing contrast between Chongqing's historical sites and Rotterdam's most trendy art building created the feeling of being in a time corridor for the audience. The show presents content with Hanfu lovers dressing up, explaining their different stylings, and discussing the promotion of Hanfu culture.
A couple in Chongqing held the Han-Dynasty-style wedding/ Photo provided to iChongqing
What is the influence of Hanfu overseas, especially in Rotterdam?
What's more important to Hanfu's or Chinese culture's development, inheritance, or innovation?
Watch the live stream, and you'll see these topics discussed between our guests from Chongqing and Rotterdam.
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