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Zhang Shifan and her sixth-generation facekinis in Shandong Province, Qingdao, East China. A woman credited with inventing the bizarre swimwear known as the “facekini” has now proudly presented the sixth generation of the iconic beach clothing. The new facekini models are not only more comfortable, they also come in a wider variety of colours and patterns, bringing both style and practicality to beach-goers in Qingdao City, in East China's Shandong Province, who fear tan lines. While first-generation facekinis designed by 60-year-old Zhang Shifan were – as the name suggests – only headwear, later versions transformed the concept into a full-body swimsuit. The facekini “invasion” started several years back on the popular beaches and at crowded resorts in Qingdao City, but soon spread to the rest of China. Like many great inventions, Zhang created a market where there was none by convincing her countrymen of the need to protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet rays and stinging jellyfish in the seas. Several beach-goers were already doing this by bringing umbrellas and buying long-sleeved swimwear for their seaside holidays. Despite being ridiculed the world over, love for the clothing, which was once only worn by middle-aged women, has taken on a life of its own and is now also used by the younger generation as well as men. Zhang's sixth-generation facekinis are now appealing to the youth of China by featuring animal prints on the back such as giant pandas, alligators, and Siberian tigers. By including some of the world's rarest animals on the back of the full-body suits, Zhang hopes to preach wildlife conservation at the same time. Her newest facekinis are a stunning array of designs and patterns, which have to some extent become the go-to fashion statement every summer. (Photo by CEN)
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