China, Fashion

The Clever Solution of Wing Flaps on Song Dynasty Hats

Why were the ministers of the Song Dynasty required to wear hats with wide wing flaps? The reason Song Dynasty hats featured protruding side flaps is surprising. The founding emperor, Zhao Kuangyin, also known as Emperor Taizu, came up with the idea to solve a problem. After ascending to the throne, Zhao was concerned that ...

Jack Roberts

Portrait of Chinese Emperor Zhenzong of the Song Dynasty.

6 Clothing Classics by French Designers

Justine Leconte is a French blogger who has an online channel that talks about style and beauty and clothing classics from the perspective of a French woman. Many of her videos promote natural beauty, minimal makeup, understanding color to dress, understanding what fabrics to buy, how to wash clothes properly — with the environment in ...

Jessica Kneipp

A man in a cowboy hat looking at a rack of suits.

How Ancient Chinese Clothing Indicated Rank and Status

Ancient Chinese clothing worn by emperors, noblemen, and officials used color and pattern to signify rank. The association of rank to a particular color and pattern was known as the Regulation Attire System. In accordance with the yin-yang and five element theory, blue, red, white, black, and yellow represent East, South, West, North, and Central, ...

Nspirement Staff

Qing Dynasty imperial clothing.

Why Chinese Women Wear Jade Bracelets

Chinese women love their jade bracelets, and they always look stunning wearing them. The simple elegance of a green jade bracelet seems to perfectly match Asian features and skin tones. Jade bracelets can be dressed up or down easily. To dress down: add leather, earthy tones, and casual dress. To dress up: wear with gold, ...

Nspirement Staff

An Asian woman holding a jade bracelet and necklace.