Come with me to Xijiang Miao Village for my first ever touristic photoshoot experience. This was my first time trying the full outfit and make-up experience, and I really didn't expect to enjoy it so much!
Should foreigners wear traditional Chinese clothing? Is it cultural appropriation?
Honestly, these questions plagued my mind for the past 5 years that I've been living in China, but locals seem to have a very different perspective to many of us in the West. Chinese people tend to be really happy and even feel flattered when non-Chinese choose to wear "hanfu" or other Chinese traditional clothing. As long as you show respect and acknowledge that it's Chinese traditional clothing (ie don't confuse it for the Japanese Kimono or Korean Hanbok), it's a great way to participate in cultural exchange and connect with locals. Ultimately, that's what led me to finally try wearing the clothes, and I'm glad I did!
What are your thoughts? Would you try on traditional clothing from another culture?
Alex, a Canadian vegan, explores Xijiang Miao Village in China and experiences a traditional clothing photoshoot. Initially hesitant about cultural appropriation, Alex discovers that locals welcome foreigners wearing hanfu. The vlog documents the makeup process, the photoshoot itself, and Alex's positive review of the experience, highlighting cultural exchange and dispelling misconceptions.
Come with me to Xijiang Miao Village for my first ever touristic photoshoot experience. This was my first time trying the full outfit and make-up experience, and I really didn't expect to enjoy it so much! Should foreigners wear traditional Chinese clothing? Is it cultural appropriation? Honestly,...
