Monday, February 3, 2025
While chatting with a young relative about online shopping, I mentioned that I had also shopped at 东京网站 (Dōngjīng Wǎngzhàn). Seeing where I was at, he quickly responded that he trusted 京东 (Jīngdōng) more than other sites. It was then that I realized my mistake. Such a simple slip-up might have invited mockery from some relatives, but instead of laughing, he gently corrected me by repeating the word correctly.
Growing up with limited oral communication skills, I’ve often faced ridicule for making minor mistakes like this—so much so that I developed the habit of speaking slowly, carefully monitoring my words. But this young relative, instead of embarrassing me, chose kindness. His quiet correction, free of judgment, was a rare gesture in my experience—one that will stay with me for the rest of my life.
Last year, I stumbled upon videos of Chinese influencers donning traditional costumes while traveling abroad. Their goal was to promote an appreciation of Chinese culture. These influencers shared their experiences on Douyin, the Chinese equivalent of TikTok, and their videos often garnered massive attention, quickly going viral.
What struck me most was the confidence these young people exuded. They were not afraid to stand out in foreign settings, proudly showcasing their cultural heritage. Inspired by their enthusiasm, I decided to delve deeper into this phenomenon and explore its broader implications.
The revival of hanfu and other traditional attire among young Chinese people has evolved into something more than just a fashion trend. It’s deeply tied to cultural pride and a desire to reconnect with the past.
Social Media & Aesthetic Appeal – Platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu have facilitated and fueled demand for visually striking outfits. Traditional attire has become an ideal choice for travel photography and social media content, thanks to its unique aesthetic appeal.
Cultural Reconnection – For many young Chinese, wearing hanfu is a way to celebrate their historical heritage, express national pride. It also represents an attempt to break free from the dominance of Western fashion trends and reclaim their cultural identity.
Economic Impact – The growing hanfu market demonstrates that this trend is more than a niche interest. For instance, the surge in sales of horse-face skirts (马面裙, mǎ miàn qún) during the Double 11 shopping festival reflects its mainstream appeal.
Local Tourism Boost – Cities like Xi’an and Beijing, home to rich cultural histories, have embraced this trend. Tourists can now explore ancient landmarks while dressed in hanfu, enhancing their cultural experience.
It’s fascinating to observe how this movement weaves together history, commerce, and digital culture, creating a vibrant fusion of the past and present.