I finally brought this custom Hanfu design photoshoot for Gongsun Li to life today. From initial pattern making to custom tailoring and final assembly, the outfit took over a month to complete. As much as I adore Gongsun Li, most of her official default designs and skins lean heavily into combat gear, so I wanted to create a softer, traditional Hanfu concept that felt authentic yet wearable in everyday contexts. I retained A-Li's signature dark navy palette, using white as the primary tone complemented by dusty-blue chiffon layers and gold brocade embroidered borders. The neckline was tailored for an off-the-shoulder look, adding a touch of lightness. Her dark blue wig was custom-made with subtle silver tinsel blended in, glistening gently under direct sunlight. Two high hair buns were shaped and adorned with golden hoops and red beads to maintain a fluid, draping silhouette. For makeup, a red-toned eye shadow extended outward at the corners, paired with a hydrated tomato-red lip to keep the look gentle and non-aggressive. The prop flute carried noticeable weight; to evoke that serene mood, I practiced holding postures extensively. The oiled paper parasol had its canopy custom-painted by a craftsman—pale blue rippling water motifs matched with leaf details paired seamlessly with the attire. The feather-adorned fantasy weapon, while derived from in-game motifs, was crafted to harmonize naturally with classical Chinese aesthetics.
The location took place in a classical garden amidst ancient architecture. The lighting was stellar that day, with dappled sunbeams filtering through tree leaves into luminous shafts of light. In the shot where I play the flute, sunlight landed softly on my profile, capturing a tranquil state I deeply love. Standing beside an antique bronze censer, that backward glance reminded me of the saying: 'Knowing all worldly matters within the pavilion, yet aware that renown across the Jianghu often deceives the world.' In-game, Gongsun Li is an agile, fleet-footed hero who carries her own quiet convictions. When creating this interpretation, I constantly thought about how to weave that swiftness into the gentle grace of Hanfu. My stylist deliberately left open space along the neckline, accentuating the collarbone with a black-and-red beaded necklace. Carrying the parasol and flute while adjusting angles throughout the day was exhausting, but seeing the raw camera previews made every minute worthwhile. This traditional style cosplay serves as a tribute to my main hero. Through refined garments, curated props, and the timeless ambiance of traditional architecture, I hope to convey Gongsun Li's balance of dynamic agility and poised grace.