Traditional Chinese clothing is becoming more and more popular, even beyond China’s borders. They basically determined the status and social rank of individuals and were worn according to occasion. Usually made of materials such as silk, wool and cotton later on, these beautiful outfits are distinguished above all by the patterns with which they are adorned. Foreign fashion fans and designers are increasingly inspired by them. Are you also interested in these elegant traditional Chinese outfits? This top 3 should certainly appeal to you. Let’s find out!
1. The Hanfu
Very old, the Hanfu is a traditional dress of the Han dynasty (an ethnic group with a 92% majority in China before the Quing dynasty). According to historians, the Hanfu was invented by the Yellow Emperor whose wife raised silkworms. The Hanfu evolved and underwent changes under the influence of the various dynasties that followed. Considered to be the typical traditional Chinese garment, Hanfu differs from other traditional garments by its characteristics. Still called Hanzhuang or Huafa, it is an original garment characterised by a cross collar, with the fabric flap on the right side and a belt running up to the waist. A loose, light and flowing dress with hanging sleeves, the Hanfu wraps easily around the body and can be worn by both men and women.
The Hanfu is a ceremonial dress by excellence and is experiencing a new expansion with the birth of a movement of young Chinese people in search of cultural identity and who are keen to promote Chinese culture. Nowadays, it is increasingly worn on the occasion of traditional festivals and historical commemorations. The Hanfu worn daily by the Chinese differs from that worn at special ceremonies by its colours and ornaments. Nowadays, there are several styles and models of Hanfu. These have greatly influenced other traditional garments such as the Japanese kimono and the Korean hanbok.
2. The Cheongsam or the Qipao
According to Chinese tradition, the traditional qipao or cheongsam was imposed by Sun Yat-Sen’s widow as standard dress between 1949 and 1980, during the reign of the communists. An ancient outfit of the Manchu minority, the qipao refers to long, loose-fitting dresses that are also unisex. Over time, the Cheongsam has become the characteristic dress for women, and can be recognised by its straight, one-piece cut with a split collar. It exists in long, mini or short styles with long, short and sometimes sleeveless sleeves. Very popular for a while now, this tight and elegant dress fits well with the graceful shape of women. Moreover, it is an outfit that suits young and old alike.
You can easily combine it with Western coats or jackets. You will also find the cheongsam in the wedding dress range. In northern China, for example, the bride wears the cheongsam in red, embroidered with refined designs in gold and silver. In the south, however, the qipao, also called Kwa or longfeng kwa, is a two-piece dress with a gold dragon and phoenix or peacock motif. A wedding dress model that is well appreciated by the Chinese. A symbol of the beauty of traditional Chinese clothing in general, the qipao is the Chinese women’s dress par excellence. Cheongsams are a source of inspiration for Western women who find them refined and particularly elegant.
3. The Tangzhuang
This multicoloured suit designed at the end of the Quing dynasty consists of trousers and a jacket. You will find this kind of outfit at important celebrations such as weddings and New Year’s Eve parties. You can combine it with a luxury perfume and you are done. The jacket features a straight mandarin collar with a symmetrical front opening. The opening is closed with handmade Chinese knots that also serve as an ornament. Usually made of Chinese silk, this jacket fits better due to its western cut and shoulder pads. It is very important to select the jacket according to the colour. For example, black is suitable for formal and serious occasions. Red symbolises happiness and luck and is suitable for festive occasions. White is the oriental colour par excellence for mourning and funeral ceremonies.
So here are the 3 best traditional Chinese outfits for you. This top 3 has made you want to get one ? Don’t hesitate, treat yourself !
Follow us on Instagram