Yang Mi vs Zhao Liying Unedited Event Photos Spark Online Debate Over Visual Age Gap

Unedited Event Photos of Yang Mi and Zhao Liying Go Viral, Netizens Say They Look a Generation Apart (Photo: Weibo/Sina)

When unedited event photos start trending, the internet rarely stays calm — and this time, the spotlight landed firmly on Yang Mi and Zhao Liying. China’s two leading post-85 actresses became the centre of attention after raw photos from separate brand events surfaced online, sparking a surprisingly intense debate over style, aura, and what netizens cheekily called a “visual generation gap”.

Although the two stars didn’t attend the same event, the timing made comparison inevitable. On the same day, Yang Mi and Zhao Liying appeared in completely contrasting looks, creating a side-by-side discussion that quickly dominated social platforms. One embodied commanding elegance, while the other leaned into youthful charm — and the internet had plenty to say about it.

Yang Mi opted for a bold red gown that immediately delivered high-impact presence. Paired with a sleek updo and statement earrings, her overall styling leaned heavily into a retro, executive-style aesthetic. 

In unedited photos, her fair complexion, upright posture, and striking proportions stood out clearly, earning praise for looking composed and confident without relying on filters. 

Many netizens described her vibe as naturally authoritative, with some even calling it a classic, reassuring kind of beauty that feels timeless rather than trendy.

Meanwhile, Zhao Liying took a softer route. She appeared in a light blue off-shoulder dress, matched with long curled hair and neat fringe, creating an effortlessly gentle and approachable look. 

Her unedited photos highlighted a noticeably youthful feel, with fans saying she looked like she had stepped straight out of her “sweet girl” era again. 

A defined jawline and subtle fitness lines didn’t go unnoticed either, with many praising her disciplined body management. Compared to Yang Mi’s powerful presence, Zhao Liying’s appeal leaned more towards warmth and relatability.

Unsurprisingly, reactions from fans and netizens were sharply divided. 

Some felt Zhao Liying’s baby-faced features made her look like Yang Mi’s junior, joking that the two appeared to be from different generations — despite their actual age gap being just one year. 

Others, especially those who favour bold styling, argued that Yang Mi’s red gown delivered a stronger spotlight effect, making her instantly memorable in any crowd.

At the same time, a more balanced voice emerged in the discussion. Fans from both sides called for a broader understanding of beauty, pointing out that different styles exist for different personalities and moments. 

Rather than forcing comparisons, many agreed that both actresses represent distinct paths of elegance — one commanding and mature, the other fresh and approachable — and that neither needs to be diminished to elevate the other.

Now it’s your turn. Do you prefer the powerful, statement-making elegance, or the youthful, gentle charm?