Men’s Hanfu, You’ll Want Every Style!
Men’s Hanfu, a vibrant part of traditional Chinese clothing, blends history and style in every stitch. From the dynamic Tang dynasty Hanfu to the elegant Song and Ming dynasty Hanfu, these styles are perfect for everyday wear or special occasions. Let’s explore the most popular men’s Hanfu styles and why you’ll want them all! For a deeper dive into Hanfu culture, visit China Highlights.
Styles: In modern terms, “style” means the cut—like differences in collars, sleeves, or lengths. Common ones include round-collar robes, cross-collar long jackets, and top-skirt combos.
Common Hanfu Collars: Cross-collar, stand-collar, round-collar, square-collar, open-collar.
Common Hanfu Fronts: Right-lap, diagonal right-lap, front-tie.
Common Hanfu Sleeves: Narrow, straight, arrow, pipa, wide.
Tang Dynasty
Round-Collar Tops
These split into Kui Robes (Shirts) and Lan Robes (Shirts). Pic one: Kui robe. Pic two: Lan robe.
Kui Robe: Slits at the waist sides, no hem band (lan). Also called a “hip-cut robe,” it’s a casual go-to for chill days.
Lan Robe: No side slits, with a hem band (lan) at the bottom. A bit more formal than the Kui robe, great for regular wear.
Both rock straight, narrow sleeves. Back then, embroidery patterns had strict rules, but now? Anything goes! Tang round-collar robes came from nomadic influences, tweaked to become Hanfu staples, perfect for travel or hunting thanks to their easy fit.
Half-Arm Top
Features a cross-collar right-lap neckline, with short or sleeveless arms, and a knee-length hem band (lan). Usually white, it’s worn as a middle layer to make guys look broad and bold.
Today, you can skip the outer robe for a standalone look or layer it over a jacket for winter warmth.
Song Dynasty
Round-Collar Robe
Evolving from Tang’s version, Song round-collar robes became status symbols. They differ in volume, sleeves, and collars.
Many Lan robes (shirts) boast wide sleeves. Their status soared in the Song, even becoming official uniforms, though now they’re casual wear. Collars are larger, showing off the cross-collar inner shirt, with roomier fits for that flowy vibe.
Beizi (Jacket)
Unlike women’s Beizi, men’s are casual with a front-tie or often a shallow cross-collar. Sleeves vary but are usually wide, reaching the elbow or beyond.
They have ties at the chest and underarms, though underarm ties are just for show, not function.
Dachang (Crane Cloak)
Started as a Taoist ritual robe, then became a hit with regular folks. Two types:
Front-tie with connected sleeves and body.
Front-tie wide sleeves, usually no side slits, though some have them.
Edged all around, it’s a casual piece. Traditionally paired with a top-skirt combo, but now it’s up to your style.
Hundred-Pleat Skirt
Often mistaken as women’s wear, this is a hot Song men’s style! A single-piece skirt with fine pleats, flat panels on the sides, and customizable in bold colors for a sharp look.
Traveling Shirt
A full-edged cross-collar long shirt, perfect for hitting the road with style.
Ming Dynasty
Since Ming men’s Hanfu has tons of variety, here’s a quick rundown:
Yesa (Yisan): A unique Ming robe, often loose and layered, great for swagger.
Cloak: Flowy outer layer, perfect for adding drama to any outfit.
Cloak with Cross-Collar Ru Skirt: A sleek combo, pairing a cloak over a cross-collar top and skirt for that classic Ming vibe.
Why Choose Men’s Hanfu?
From Tang’s casual Kui robes to Song’s elegant Dachang and Ming’s dramatic Yesa, men’s Hanfu offers styles for every taste. Whether you’re exploring traditional Chinese clothing for daily wear or a special occasion, these designs blend history with modern flair. Join the Hanfu community at Ehanfu to connect with enthusiasts and find your perfect look!
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