Many Naxi women living in the Lijiang area wear decorative costumes unique to their culture. I was walking behind two of them and observed this gentle touch of encouragement. By focusing on the intricate design of the four huge buttons that attach the blouse of the costume to the skirt, I reveal detail that speaks of the nature of that culture, right down to the smallest threads and stitching on the face of the buttons and on the towel that hangs below the belt.