National ICH: Hui'an Maiden's attire

Hui'an Maiden's attire, originating in Fujian province's coastal Hui'an county, is a distinctive blend of Baiyue culture, Central Plains culture, and maritime culture. Evolving over a millennium, the style of Hui'an Maiden's attire solidified during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and matured by the Song Dynasty (960-1279). The early Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) witnessed significant changes, giving rise to its distinct designs, intricate decorations, harmonious colors, and vibrant patterns.

Today, the fishing women of towns like Chongwu, Xiaohu, and Jingfeng along the eastern coast of Hui'an county, as well as women from Dongling and Shanxia, preserve this tradition.

The iconic conical hat, predominantly bright yellow, stands out as a recognizable element of Hui'an Maiden's attire. The headscarf, a distinctive aspect, is square in shape (approximately 66 cm) with different patterns, each unique and pleasing to the eye.

The attire's defining feature is the short top. Waist adornments come in colorful plastic bands or silver, while black trousers exude a dignified and versatile tone to fit various fabrics and accessories.

The coordination of colors, styles, lines, and patterns in Hui'an Maiden's attire exudes a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Adhering to the principles of suitability, timeliness, and convention, the attire adapts to life and labor while upholding aesthetic ideals.

With dwindling numbers embracing this traditional attire due to lifestyle changes, this richly distinctive style of attire still need continued preservation and development to uphold its local charm and legacy.

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