Splendid Miao clothes and jewelry star in Hunan festival

Dazzling traditional exaggerated silver jewelry won the warmest applause. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

The theme of the two-day activity was "Glamour of Miao dress, fine scenery of Fenghuang ancient town". In addition to the opening ceremony, there was a float parade, Miao beauty contest, several outdoor performances of Miao songs and dances, an exhibition of Miao traditional dress and ornaments and a photographic exhibition of Miao culture.

Miao people, mainly living in Southwestern China, are very skilled at handicrafts, such as embroidery, paper-cutting, batik and jewelry casting. Miao embroidery and silver jewelry are delicate and beautiful. From hats, collars, and cuffs to skirts and baby carriers, the patterns on their clothes are extremely colorful, complicated but with clean lines. Girls of around seven will learn embroidery from mothers and sisters, and by the time they become teenagers are quite deft.