Lifestyle
Weird ‘Facekini’ Fashion is Taking Over China’s Beaches
Would you be caught dead on the beach wearing one of these?
China has long been known as an imitator of everything, from technology to gadgets, and from world-famous brands to even destinations. On many instances, these shanzhai, or fakes, look as good as the real thing.
One particular fashion statement, however, is becoming singularly known as a Chinese original. Dubbed the “facekini,” it has become a staple on the beaches of China’s Shandong province.
The Facekini.
Facekinis aren’t a new trend, however. They began appearing way back in 2004, and it appears its a fad that isn’t likely to die down. At least not in China.
How did this bizarre fashion statement take flight? No one knows. There may be several theories why China’s beachgoers acquired this penchant for resembling multicolored aliens with their latex face masks.
To protect their face from the sun’s UV rays?
But what about the rest of their swimsuit clad bodies?
As a tribute to their favorite superheroes?
As an additional accessory to the latest in fashionable swimwear?
To cover up a “fugly” face on the seashore?
Or to hide one’s identity when wearing this outlandish beach getup?
And to look like a fashion forward bank robber, perhaps.
Maybe even to rob a bank for real.
The list is endless, but the “facekini” is reportedly used as a shield when a straw hat and sunglasses just won’t cut it under the glare of the merciless sun.
Although with China’s heavily polluted air, how the sun can manage to shine through the soupy smog is open to question.
In the event the sun does manage to shine through, Chinese beach lovers can still enjoy the sea and sand without damaging their much-touted porcelain skin.
Despite looking like one of the villains from the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.
On the other hand, if some people want absolute anonymity while hobnobbing it on the seashore, these facekinis are just the thing. Especially if they discover someone else wearing the same swimsuit.
At least they have different colored latex masks to tell them apart.
These facekinis are so popular, enthusiasts are wearing them for other sun-baring activities, as well.
Like working out at the poolside, for instance.
Or to go skiing.
Or to frighten everyone within glancing distance to stay the heck away.
Because let’s face it, people do need some sweet solitude to relax every now and then.
Say what you will about this unconventional #OOTD…
Facekinis, a versatile Chinese original, are likely here to stay.