Crowds gathered around to watch a photo shoot of several models adorning Han couture at Xuanwu Lake in Nanjing on March 25. The classical Chinese dresses worn by the models were designed and handmade by designers Xiao Xiong and Jia Tong. The designers publicize their latest designs monthly. But if you want to own one of their creations, be prepared to be on a long waiting list.
Designers Inspired by Traditional Culture and Styles
Xiao said that her passion for traditional Chinese culture and background in costume design allowed is also novelist, attributed her inspiration to classical Chinese literature, especially the works by Li Houzhu. When the two designers first posted photos of a set of simple Han clothing they designed for themselves, they received positive responses beyond their imagination.
With the enthusiasm and support from fans, the designers immersed themselves in researching and studying classical Chinese clothing. Xiao expressed that many of their designs were slowly perfected through painstaking research and brainstorming. Most of their designs are based from the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdom periods as well as the Tang and Ming Dynasties.
Each Ensemble is an Artwork
Xiong described their design production has a very complicated process. It is very difficult to find the same materials nowadays that were used in history, such as natural hemp, silk and specialized cotton.
Since the patterns and color of fabric are very different from ancient times, the designers often design patterns and dye fabrics themselves. The headdresses that compliment the dresses are also handcrafted by Xiong and Jia.
Demand Exceeds Supply
Since they started to sell their designs online a year ago, they have received more orders than they can produce. Their production rate is currently about twenty pieces a month, and the prices rate from 400 to 1000 yuan (US$59 – 146).
In recent years, Han couture has made a comeback. They are often worn for traditional events such as the Chinese New Year, Chinese festivals, Flower Festival, Girl’s Festival, and Shangsi Festival.
Read original article in Chinese.