I'm taking a break from my stories of Shenyang to show you two recent purchases. Marcy and I went to Er Chi Square to shop for traditional Chinese goods. She bought a beautiful green silk blouse with a bamboo pattern on it, which I will post a picture of as soon as she sends it to me.
When we went to pick it up, I saw several gorgeous Mandarin jackets for men. I couldn't resist ordering two of them. The woman took my measurements and sent me on my way. The cost for two tailor-made silk jackets, including material and labor: $75.
I wore the gold one to class today. My students audibly responded when I walked into the room. None of my students said anything out loud, but as I was walking down the hall a student pointed at the jacket and said "It's very wonderful!"
Here is the other one. I can't decide which I like better.
From the pictures, I prefer the Gold one. Do you feel any animosity for being a gringo with the audacity to wear 'their' clothing? Do 'they' even wear 'their' clothing?
ReplyDeleteChinese people seldom wear distinctively Chinese clothing, and indeed it was difficult to find silks in the huge indoor market near Er Chi Square. I've noticed a few people looking at me with hostility, but vastly more who smile excitedly to see me dressed in Chinese-style clothing.
ReplyDeleteyou are a lovely foreigner in china,robert
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