古色古香

gǔsègǔxiāng

idiom #51,284

Meanings

1 with an antique flavor (idiom)
2 having a classical, old-fashioned charm
3 redolent of antiquity

Characters

color; appearance

Examples

这家茶馆布置得古色古香。

Zhè jiā cháguǎn bùzhì de gǔsègǔxiāng.

This teahouse is decorated with a classical antique charm.

小镇的街道古色古香，很有韵味。

Xiǎo zhèn de jiēdào gǔsègǔxiāng, hěn yǒu yùnwèi.

The small town's streets have an old-world charm full of character.

她穿着一件古色古香的旗袍。

Tā chuānzhe yī jiàn gǔsègǔxiāng de qípáo.

She was wearing a qipao with classical antique styling.

Tips

history

From Song-dynasty connoisseur Zhao Xigu's 《洞天清录》 on old paintings: 古画色墨……有一种古香可爱 — old paintings have an 'ancient fragrance' that is lovable. The phrase moved from art appraisal to describe any scene or object with classical atmosphere.

usage

Describes decor, architecture, clothing, and art — NOT people or behavior. Strongly positive, evoking cultivated taste. Common in travel writing, interior design, and reviews of traditional restaurants or hotels.

Stroke Order

古 gǔ

色 sè

香 xiāng