China's official media has issued guidelines for civil service candidates, emphasizing modest dress and grooming. The advice covers everything from simple, elegant suits for men to avoiding elaborate makeup and keeping hair styled away from the face for women.

China’s official media has released a series of guidelines for would-be civil servants, warning them to dress modestly. Candidates were told they should wear “light and elegant” suits, and men were advised to get a haircut. Women were told to have clean nails, avoid jewellery, complicated make-up and make sure their hair did not cover their ears or eyes. Competition for civil service jobs – traditionally seen as an “iron rice bowl” because of the security they offer – has intensified in recent.....