Fourth generation of 'face-kini' soon to hit beach in Qingdao
Updated: 2015-05-24 10:00
(CRIENGLISH.com)
|
||||||||
The face-kini is a nylon face mask that covers the head and neck, leaving holes only for the wearer's eyes, nose and mouth. The mask is primarily worn to block out the sunshine, but some swimmers say they are also using the masks to protect themselves from jellyfish stings.
This protective head mask has prevailed on beaches in eastern coastal resort city Qingdao for years. Middle-aged women, well known as Chinese "Dama", are the major fans of the product.
Zhang Shifan, a woman in her late fifties, is the inventor of the face-kini. Zhang said that she has been promoting the fourth generation of face-kinis, which will resemble Beijing Opera face masks.
Zhang added that her product has evolved over the years. The first generation of face-kinis was of relatively poor craftsmanship and did not fit the face so tightly; this was changed in the second generation. The third generation added a triangle design on the top of the mask to make it more comfortable. The coming fourth generation of the face-kinis carries ornamental designs.
According to Zhang, the fourth generation of face-kinis will be unveiled at the 13th China International Marine Fair (CIMF) and China International Boat Show, which opens at the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center on May 22. The new product would be put into mass production this July.
Since its debut in 2006, face-kinis have enjoyed wide popularity among China's beach-goers. Last year, a photo series on face-kinis published by French Fashion Magazine 'CR FashionB ook' made people outside of China take notice of the unique piece of swimwear.
Most Viewed
Editor's Picks
Premier Li embarks on Latin America visit |
What do we know about AIIB |
Full coverage of Boao Forum for Asia |
Annual legislative and political advisory sessions |
Spring Festival trends reflect a changing China |
Patent applications lead the world |
Today's Top News
Chinese premier arrives in Chile for official visit
John Nash: A life of great struggle and even greater success
Cleveland police say 71 people arrested overnight in protests
US charges a reflection of 'anxiety'
Expansion of free trade possible on Chile visit
Chilean president sees promising prospects for relations with China
Mathematician John Nash killed in car crash
Chinese premier encourages firms to upgrade cooperation with Peru
US Weekly
Geared to go |
The place to be |