Picture this: you’re strutting down the street, turning heads left and right, as you rock a stunning, unique accessory inspired by the enchanting world of Chinese flowers. Talk about flower power! Delving into Chinese flower meanings not only adds a touch of sophistication to your style but also opens up a treasure trove of symbolism and cultural charm.
So, let’s embark on this blooming adventure together and discover the secrets of Chinese flowers and how to make them the pièce de résistance of your fashion statement!
Popular Chinese Flowers and Their Meanings
Peony - wealth, prosperity, and honor
Often hailed as the “King of Flowers,” the peony is the national flower of China. The peony is native to China and boasts a rich history spanning thousands of years. Its large, colorful, and fragrant blossoms are not only visually stunning but also hold high Chinese medicinal value. Since being featured in the ancient Chinese medical book “Shennong Ben Cao Jing” during the Qin and Han dynasties, the peony has been celebrated in countless works of literature and art throughout the ages.
Plum Blossom - perseverance, hope, and beauty
Exuding nobility and integrity, the plum blossom symbolizes a gentleman who remains steadfast in the face of adversity. This traditional Chinese flower blooms in winter and spring and is renowned for its cold resistance. Alongside pine and bamboo, it forms the “Three Friends of Winter.” As the plum blossom bravely blossoms amid harsh conditions, it has become a symbol of hope, good news, and perseverance.
Chrysanthemum - longevity and vitality
The chrysanthemum, which flowers in autumn, is often associated with its blossom season. Based on historical records, September was known as “Chrysanthemum Month” in ancient China. The chrysanthemum symbolizes longevity because “nine” (number of September) shares the same sound as “long-lasting” in Chinese.
Orchid - integrity, nobility, and refinement
The orchid stands out among Chinese flowers for its unassuming beauty and quiet elegance. The meaning of the orchid includes integrity, nobility, and refinement. Flourishing in deep valleys and remote mountains, the orchid embodies qualities such as detachment from politics and the preservation of one’s inner goodness.
Lotus - purity, enlightenment, and rebirth
Chinese culture revered the lotus as a symbol of purity and serenity. In Hinduism and Buddhism, the lotus represents life and rebirth, often adorning the seats and surroundings of deities. The lotus’s ability to thrive and bloom in murky environments demonstrates its remarkable resilience. At the same time, its emergence as a beautiful flower symbolizes rebirth.
Chinese Flowers-Inspired Accessories
Huasheng
Huasheng, also known as flower adornments, is a general name for all decorative hair accessories featuring Chinese flower designs. Placed on the hair or forehead, these floral accessories often accompany stunning gold leaves or kingfisher feathers, known as “tiecui” in Chinese.
Buyao (Stepshake)
Buyao is a type of decorative ornament worn in the hair, featuring dangling adornments that sway with the wearer’s movement, hence the name “Stepshake.” Generally, there are three styles of Buyao: “flower tree shape,” “flower top shape,” and “flower vine shape.” All styles are made of gold.
Huadian
Huadian hairpins emerged during the Han Dynasty. It comes in two primary forms: one with a short handle to be inserted directly into the hair bun, and another that attaches to the hairpin with a hole. Huadian hairpins are often placed symmetrically in the front and on top of the head, creating an eye-catching display of Chinese flowers’ meanings and beauty.
Zan Hua
Add a touch of natural beauty to your hairstyle with Zan Hua, the practice of adorning the hair or headdress with fresh flowers. Popular since the Qin and Han Dynasties, Zan Hua features vibrant flowers like plum blossoms, roses, and jasmine. Chinese women will choose different flowers based on seasons and occasions to showcase the best of nature’s beauty.
Armlet
Chinese armlets, circular jewelry worn on the upper arm, were always gold and silver. It showcases traditional patterns and flowers with special meanings. Popular since the Western Han Dynasty, armlets come in various styles, including adjustable designs that can fit the wearer’s arm.
Pendant
Chinese traditional flower filigree inlay art dates back over 4,000 years and features intricate gold wire flower designs. Today, skilled artisans still create exquisite pieces, mostly pendants, with this ancient technique. They are popular in the modern Chinese market and common to see in ceremonies and banquets.
Shopping for Authentic Chinese Floral Accessories
Navigating the world of Chinese floral accessories can be a delightful adventure, especially when you know where to find genuine, high-quality items. So let’s see some famous Chinese jewelry brands that you can trust for their quality and skills.
Lao Feng Xiang (老凤祥)
Chow Tai Fook (周大福)
Founded in 1929, Chow Tai Fook is a renowned Hong Kong-based jewelry brand with a wide range of exquisite gold, jade, and gemstone pieces inspired by Chinese culture.
Chow Sang Sang (周生生)
Another Hong Kong-based brand, Chow Sang Sang, offers a variety of modern and traditional jewelry designs that fuse Chinese aesthetics with contemporary trends.
King Fook (景福珠宝)
With a history dating back to 1949, King Fook is another Hong Kong-based jewelry brand. It offers a range of traditional Chinese-inspired pieces, as well as modern and stylish designs.
The Forbidden City on Taobao (故宫淘宝)
Yes, you didn’t mishear it. The Forbidden City has a retail store on Taobao. They don’t sell high-quality gems, but feature their traditional craftsmanship and innovative designs. As a famous brand and well-established store, their craftsmanship is reliable.
Some Products on Etsy and Amazon
Conclusion
In conclusion, the intricate symbolism of Chinese flowers weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of culture, history, and artistic expression. As we’ve explored, Chinese flowers like peonies, plum blossoms, and chrysanthemums carry significance that extends beyond their physical beauty, providing a glimpse into Chinese culture. From their profound meanings to their captivating appearances in traditional Chinese accessories, these floral motifs have flourished in the hearts of fashion aficionados and nature lovers.
So, take the plunge and let your style bloom with the charm of Chinese flowers. If you want to learn more about traditional Chinese dresses, welcome to our “Chinese Dress” channel! Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions or ideas about fashion ~ We are always here to exchange brilliant thoughts!
