Unveiling Timeless Beauty Through Hanfu
Hanfu culture, a vibrant thread in Chinese heritage, spans over five thousand years, weaving elegance into Eastern civilization. Hanfu, often mislabeled as mere “costume,” is the traditional attire of the Huaxia people, embodying the essence of Han Dynasty clothing and beyond. This article explores Hanfu’s historical evolution, from curved-hem robes to modern revivals, and its cultural significance. For deeper insights, visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The Huaxia people, named for their beautiful clothing and grand rituals, are the world’s largest ethnic group. But today, they’re among the few without their own traditional attire…
From “Emperor Huangdi’s robes bringing order to the world” to the Qing dynasty’s “shave your head, change your clothes” edict, our story unfolds.
Some say we’ve been losing our culture since the Manchu Qing dynasty. Others argue that in recent decades of reform and opening up, Han culture has been overshadowed by Western influences, losing its unique charm.
Now, young people are rediscovering Hanfu culture, pushing back against over-Westernization and blind trend-chasing. They’re searching for something truly Chinese, reclaiming our lost identity.
Qin and Han Dynasties
Hanfu in the Qin and Han eras featured three-layered outfits, including curved-hem robes and straight-hem Chanyu robes.
Curved-hem robes were women’s favorites—tight-fitting and floor-length, demanding a slim figure.
Chubby? Maybe sit this one out. Makeup was kept minimal, as ancient beauty prized “cherry lips and plain elegance.” No need for fancy updos or extra bling to let this style shine.
Poetic vibe: “Three-layered floral robes, braided hair painted with brows for the stage; long sleeves sweep the floor, brushing away lovesick thoughts.”
Wei, Jin, Southern, and Northern Dynasties
Influenced by nomadic Hu clothing, Hanfu evolved. Narrow sleeves, short tops, and long boots made movement and horseback archery easier. This shows Hanfu isn’t static—it adapts to society, comfort, and changing tastes.
Jin-style Hanfu featured cross-collar Ru tops with a waistband (lan). Ru means short tops, as noted in Jijiupian: “Short clothes are called Ru, above the knees.”
Sui, Tang, and Five Dynasties
Since Han and Jin, skirts were tied at the waist, but by the Sui, Tang, and Five Dynasties, skirt waists climbed higher, often above the chest. Tang fashion shifted from simple to lavish and open-minded. Check out the ladies’ Ru skirts in Yongtai Princess’s tomb murals at Qianling—low-cut styles we now call chest-high Ru skirts.
These came in cross-collar or front-tie versions, often paired with wide-sleeved shirts, silk scarves, or half-arm tops. Strolling through Chang’an’s streets, every step felt like a line from a Tang poem.
Song Dynasty
Song women’s Hanfu centered on Ru skirts, with wide-front right-lap cross-collar or front-tie styles leading the trend. The Beizi jacket became a women’s favorite, paired with Song pants, evolving into a daily formal outfit.
Song Beizi had long sleeves and long bodies, with open slits under the armpits and decorative ties at the back. Its loose, slimming vertical lines reflected women’s love for a “slender beauty” aesthetic, a vibe still echoed in modern fashion.
Ming Dynasty
Ao skirts replaced Ru skirts, becoming super popular. Unlike Ru skirts, Ao skirts weren’t tucked into the waist. Other hits included bijia (sleeveless vests), xiapei (shawls), and Beizi (long coats).
I’m obsessed with Ao skirts—they’re thick and cozy, perfect for spring or fall. Pair with a simple braided bun, a floral hairpiece, a delicate brow line, and a touch of red lipstick for that graceful Ming maiden look!
The image of wide robes, flowing sashes, long skirts, and tied-up hair lingers in our hearts. Even if we don’t know its name or purpose, glimpses from classics, novels, and wuxia dramas have etched it deep in the soul of every Chinese descendant.
We’re chasing a familiar yet elusive feeling in the dark—a feeling called the Han dream.
Broad sleeves flutter, hems drift lightly. The elegance of our attire returns, with endless joy in Chang’an…
We refuse to let Huaxia’s clothing wander in foreign lands or let our ancestors’ wisdom fade unappreciated, breaking our hearts.
I dream of a day when we all wear our own clothes, reclaim our culture, and hold up the backbone of our nation!
May we pour our lives into reviving this splendid heritage for you.
While Tang chest-high skirts showcased boldness, Ming aesthetics refined sleeve artistry—see [Ming Dynasty Hanfu sleeve designs].
Modern Hanfu Culture: A Revival
Today, young people are reclaiming Hanfu culture, pushing against Westernization to rediscover Chinese identity. Hanfu Shenyi and Tang Dynasty clothing inspire modern designs, with broad sleeves and flowing hems evoking the “Han dream.” This revival ensures Huaxia’s heritage shines anew.
Tips for Embracing Hanfu Culture
- Wear cross-right collars (right over left) for authenticity.
- Pair with minimal accessories to highlight Hanfu’s elegance.
- Avoid modern sashes; use traditional belts for historical accuracy.
Hanfu’s revival today echoes its historical adaptability—learn more in our [complete Hanfu guide].
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