Shandong girl shares her love of traditional hanfu in UK

A group of young Chinese ladies, dressed in exquisite hanfu attire – a traditional Chinese style of clothing – added color and style as they paraded in the streets at this year's Lunar New Year Temple Fair in the city of Manchester in the UK, providing an unforgettable experience for the locals.

The group of Chinese women brighten up the streets of Manchester with their colorful and traditional hanfu attire. [Photo by Yao Yuan provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Among them was Yao Yuan, a graduate of Heze No. 1 High School in Heze city, in East China's Shandong province, who is currently studying at the University of Manchester.

Looking serene, Yao Yuan wears an elegant hanfu at this year's Lunar New Year Temple Fair in Manchester. [Photo by Yao Yuan provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Yao's connection with hanfu goes back to her middle school days, when she became interested in the intricate designs and patterns of the traditional Chinese clothing.

Despite not being able to afford her own hanfu at that time, Yao borrowed one from her friend and the experience left a lasting impression on her.

In high school, she saved up to buy her own hanfu and even brought some with her to the UK. As an international student, Yao enjoys sharing her love of Chinese culture and hanfu with her foreign friends.

During major events, such as the Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, she and her friends put on their hanfu outfits and showcase the beauty of these traditional clothes. Yao's displays attract many curious onlookers and often spark conversations about Chinese culture and fashion.

Yao said that she will use her spare time to continue to work with hanfu enthusiasts to promote Chinese culture, making hanfu culture and Chinese culture more and more popular in the UK. (Edited by Jin Yongxue)