What should you wear to the annual plenary sessions in Beijing? Han Bingbin and Liu Xiangrui talk to the delegates, and seek expert advise on the appropriate dress codes.

Twenty years ago this time of year, Tian'anmen Square would have been awash in a sea of solemn black, gray and green. This year, it's more like a gathering of rainbow-colored outfits as well as smart black suits paired with ties in muted tones. The only element unchanged is the army greens.

As China prospers, that affluence is best reflected and most effectively displayed when the more than 3,000 deputies and members gather from all over the country, representing a broad swath of regions, ethnic groups, organizations, industries and trades.

Everyone is very aware of the media exposure the "two sessions" are getting not only at home but also abroad and all are putting their best-shod foot forward.

Yang Fengling, a 50-year-old Buyi ethnic deputy member, prepares her wardrobe for the meetings half a year ahead. She brought six changes of clothes to Beijing this year, and she is especially proud of the outfit she wore for the opening of the sessions on Monday.

The traditional Buyi ethnic costume took a 60-year-old craftsman in her home county three months to finish.

Yang has been an NPC deputy for five years. She listens to feedback seriously. For instance, some people told her the traditional black of her outfit was too somber, so this year, she replaced her black headband with a blue-and-white one colored with sweet-gum dye.

There are many like Yang with the confidence, will and perhaps financial ability to dress up, there are also others who are still fumbling for the right dress code.

Recently, some female delegates from Zhejiang province reportedly said they would all show up in tailor-made qipao, the slinky form-fitting traditional Chinese dress. That raised a huge controversy among netizens, many of whom said the ladies were treating the two sessions like a fashion catwalk.

Delegates from the nation's many ethnic groups gather in front of Tian'anmen to show off their colorful outfits.

The experts agree.

Qin Qing, a senior etiquette consultant, says the ladies' intention to look their best is commendable. It is their choice of costume that is questionable.

The qipao, says Qin, can project an overly sexy image, which is not quite appropriate for such serious meetings.

So what is the proper dress code?

Qin advises female delegates to cover up. Low-cut necklines are a definite no, and leather skirts and furs should be avoided.

Leopard prints, overly elaborate jewelry and heavy makeup should be toned down. Elegant skirts or pantsuits are still the safest choices, but that does not mean dull or dark colors.

Pick from a spectrum of pastels such as peach or mauve, but avoid bright reds and neon greens or opt for darker maroons and taupe.

Accessorize with discreet brooches, sweaters or scarves - and when it comes to earrings, stay safe with studs.

Qin points to television celebrity Yang Lan as an example of good taste.

"Celebrities are better at handling the occasion. They're well trained in grooming," she says.

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