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Do different dynasties matter when choosing Hanfu?
Posted by Allen on March 1, 2025 at 12:47 pmI know Hanfu comes from different dynasties, but does that really matter when choosing a style? Are certain styles more suited for specific occasions? For example, if I just want to wear Hanfu for casual outings, should I go for a specific dynasty’s style, or does it not really make a difference? Also, what are some key differences between the major Hanfu styles from different time periods?
Te'Angela Moliere replied 2 months, 1 week ago 2 Members · 7 Replies -
7 Replies
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Yes, different dynasties have distinct Hanfu styles. Here’s how they differ:
· Han Dynasty: The classic Ruqun with high-waisted skirts is very representative of this period. It’s simple yet elegant.
· Tang Dynasty: Tang-style Hanfu tends to be more vibrant and colorful, with flowing robes and wide sleeves. It’s great if you want something bold and extravagant.
· Song Dynasty: The Song Dynasty Hanfu features more delicate, form-fitting designs. The emphasis is on subtle beauty and elegant lines.
· Ming Dynasty: Ming-style Hanfu has more structure and is often characterized by a straight, well-defined shape. It’s perfect for a more refined, formal look.
Depending on your personal taste and the event you’re dressing for, you can choose a dynasty that resonates with you!
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ABSOLUTELY. Dynasty vibes are everything if you care about historical accuracy. Tang dynasty? Think bold colors, wide sleeves, and that iconic high-waisted ruqun – total boss energy. Ming styles? More structured, with those gorgeous horse-face skirts (mamianqun) and intricate embroidery. Mixing dynasties is like wearing sneakers with a Victorian ballgown – you do you, but purists might side-eye you. If you’re gonna nerd out, research the deets (fabrics, patterns, accessories) or join niche Discord groups. No shame in geeking over 13th-century collar styles!
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Wait, dynasties actually matter?! I just bought this red hanfu with dragons because it looked fire on TikTok… Is that a problem? 🥺 Honestly, if you’re new like me, just grab whatever makes you feel like a xianxia drama protagonist. No one’s gonna quiz you on whether your sleeves are Song or Yuan dynasty-approved at a casual meetup. But maybe avoid wearing a Tang-era forehead sticker with Ming clothes? Idk, some folks get weird about it. Follow @HanfuHype on Insta – they tag dynasty styles in their OOTDs!
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Kinda? Dynasty styles tell cool stories. Tang outfits scream ‘Golden Age extravagance’ – perfect for festivals. Song styles have that minimalist, ‘I-write-poetry-under-willow-trees’ vibe. But modern hanfu is about reinvention too! I mix Qing floral prints with Tang jackets for café hangouts. Respect the culture, but don’t stress – unless you’re at a history reenactment event. Pro tip: Add dynasty hashtags (#MingCore) if you post pics online. The algorithm eats that up!
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Ugh, dynasty specifics can jack up prices. Ming mamianqun skirts need like 12 fabric panels – cha-ching! If you’re balling on a budget, go for ‘Tang-Song’ mashups on AliExpress. Sellers label stuff vaguely anyway. Check reviews: ‘Does this look more Empress of China or Story of Yanxi Palace?’ TBH, most normies won’t notice if your Shenyi is 5% historically inaccurate. Just don’t pair neon fishnet gloves with it unless you’re going for that ‘time-traveling raver’ drip.
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Yes, but not just for aesthetics – it’s about lineage. My family traces back to Fujian Ming scholars, so wearing Ming-style zhishen reflects my roots. Different dynasties carried different philosophies; Yuan styles blended Mongol elements, while Han-dominated dynasties like Song emphasized Confucian simplicity. Start with your own regional/dynastic heritage if possible. BUT – if you’re non-Chinese exploring hanfu, focus on understanding context rather than claiming ‘accuracy’. Appreciation > appropriation.
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Dynasty = built-in aesthetic branding. TikTok trends rn:
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Tang: #BaddieEmpress challenge (smoky eyes + peony prints)
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Song: Cottagecore edits with tea ceremonies
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Wei-Jin: Ethereal ‘dragon ascendant’ looks for AMV edits
Algorithm hack: Use dynasty names in captions! Mix eras strategically – like Song inner robes with Tang outer gauze for that ‘layered mystic’ effect. Controversy = views. Debate in comments about ‘Was this hairstyle really late Ming?’ = engagement boost. 🤫
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