In an interview, Zhao Lusi explains why she decided to take complete control of her character’s clothes and makeup.

Zhao lusi: “I enjoyed each styling because it was precisely arranged by me. Why am I doing this? Many people were saying, “Let the professionals handle the professional matters.”

“Of course, I am aware that there are many talented costume designers and makeup artists. However, I wanted to emphasize that I know what I should wear for each scene based on how I feel as an actress. When Xu Yan is not expected to look glamorous, she should not seem glamorous. When she is intended to be dazzling, she should look it!”

“This is also my first time attempting current Chinese style. There’s also a storyline in which my character becomes involved in intangible cultural heritage. I believe this is quite significant, and it will introduce many younger people to handcrafted things manufactured by the Yi ethnic community. I believe it’s wonderful! So I went looking for those accessories everywhere, even buying clothes to make costumes. Many of the costumes I wear in the show are handcrafted, therefore they are rare to be available on the internet.”

“I’ve been planning my character’s wardrobe since before we even started filming. I also have a personal stylist who will assist me in acquiring the outfits that I want. I’ll also have to consider the differences in her attire between the beginning and end of the story.” -Zhao Lusi