Chasing the Chinese period drama look: Singapore's growing makeover photo shoot trend

Singapore's vibrant cultural scene is embracing a unique trend: makeover photo shoots steeped in the opulent aesthetics of Chinese period dramas. From the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty to the intricate styles seen in popular C-dramas, locals are seeking to capture these historical looks through professional photography. Homemaker Cynthia Hou, inspired by the Tang Dynasty's renowned prosperity and fashion, found the experience available locally after considering a trip to China.

“

I was especially drawn to its aesthetic richness. And on a slightly cheeky note, since I’m not exactly a standard-sized Asian, I like to think I might have fit the beauty ideals of that era quite well.

Hou's family outing, which included her sister and 74-year-old mother, highlights the intergenerational appeal of this trend. The seven-and-a-half-hour session involved dressing in Tang Dynasty-inspired hanfu, complete with elaborate updos and accessories. Hou noted the meticulous attention to detail, from outfits to hairstyles, emphasizing the immersive nature of the experience. This growing appetite for Chinese-inspired makeovers reflects a broader cultural shift, moving away from past perceptions of Chinese culture being less "cool" to a renewed appreciation for its aesthetic richness and identity.

“

The whole experience was such a joy. I didn’t realise how much thought went into every single detail – the outfits, colours, fabrics, hairstyles, accessories.

Local photography studios are capitalizing on this surge in interest. Dressed Up Dreams, where Hou had her photos taken, has seen a roughly 20% rise in demand for hanfu photo shoots in the past year. Sharon Ling, the studio's creative director, observes a noticeable shift in attitudes, with clients now actively seeking to connect with traditional Chinese aesthetics. Similarly, LunarWorks Studio introduced an oriental-themed backdrop four years ago, coinciding with the rise in C-drama popularity, offering a setting with traditional Chinese furniture, wooden screens, and lanterns to enhance the immersive experience. This trend showcases how popular culture, particularly C-dramas, can significantly influence local consumer behavior and cultural expression in Singapore.

“

When I was younger, China-related culture wasn’t always seen as ‘cool’. Now, it’s almost the opposite. There’s a renewed interest in the aesthetics and identity behind it, and that’s definitely reflected in what clients are asking for today.