#AP Chinese Exam Study Guide: Beauty, Fashion & Pop Culture

Hey there! Let's get you feeling super confident for your AP Chinese exam. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the test. We'll break down everything you need to know in a clear, engaging way. Let's do this!

#1. Chinese Beauty Ideals

#1.1 Beauty Standards and Fashion

This section is super important because it covers cultural values and societal norms, which are often tested in both MCQs and FRQs. Make sure you understand the underlying reasons for these preferences, not just the preferences themselves.

When we talk about beauty in China, it's good to know that it's pretty similar to other East Asian countries but quite different from Western standards. Fashion has gone from traditional to modern, influenced by global trends.

#1.1.1 Skin Tone Preference

Fair skin is highly valued 💡. This isn't just a modern thing; it goes way back to the dynasties.
Historical Context: Pale skin meant you were wealthy and didn't have to work outside. Darker skin was associated with manual labor.
Modern Practices: Many women use sun umbrellas, face masks, and even "facekinis" to avoid tanning. There's a saying: "一白遮百丑 (yī bái zhē bǎi chǒu)" - "Fair skin conceals a thousand flaws."

Memory Aid

Think of the phrase “白富美 (bái fù měi)” (white, rich, and beautiful) for women and “高富帅 (gāo fù shuài)” (tall, rich, and handsome) for men. These terms are like a quick snapshot of ideal beauty standards in China.

Memory Aid

Facekini

Caption: A Facekini in use on a beach in Qingdao

#1.1.2 Skin Whitening Products

Popular but Dangerous: Skin-whitening products are widely used, but many contain harmful ingredients like mercury.
Health Risks: Mercury can damage your kidneys and nerves. ⚠️
Smuggling: Many of these products are smuggled into East Asian countries because they're illegal.

#1.1.3 Makeup and Cosmetics

Limited Shades: You'll notice that foundation and makeup shades often cater to lighter skin tones.
Brightening Creams: These are super common in cosmetic stores.

#1.1.4 Other Beauty Preferences

Double Eyelids: Many East Asians have monolids, so blepharoplasty (double eyelid surgery) is popular. It makes the eyes look bigger.
High Nose Bridge: This is another sought-after feature.
Thinness: Being extremely thin is considered ideal, which can lead to unhealthy practices.

Common Mistake

Don't confuse the desire for thinness with actual health. Many clothing brands in China have limited size ranges, which can reinforce unhealthy body image issues.