What Hanfu Styles Are Best for Autumn and Winter?

Ming hanfu stands out for its heavier fabrics and layered silhouettes, making it ideal for autumn and winter. Unlike lightweight summer hanfu, Ming styles use thicker materials like wool blends or lined cotton, offering warmth without sacrificing elegance. The loose cuts allow for discreet layering, so you can add thermals or sweaters while maintaining a regal look. For more on hanfu fabrics, check this guide.

As the weather cools down in autumn and winter, you might wonder how to keep rocking hanfu without freezing. While spring and summer are perfect for spotting hanfu fans strutting in lightweight chiffon outfits, colder seasons call for warmer, cozier styles. Hanfu is super trendy these days, but those breezy fabrics won’t cut it when it’s chilly. So, what’s the best hanfu for fall and winter? Spoiler: Ming dynasty hanfu steals the show!

Many hanfu lovers first fall for qixiong shanqun (chest-high top-and-skirt sets), but it’s the Ming hanfu styles that make them stay hooked. Why? Ming hanfu is all about elegance and grandeur—slip into one, and you instantly feel like a noble lady. In this guide, we’ll explore why Ming hanfu is perfect for autumn and winter and break down the top styles to keep you stylish and warm. Let’s dive in!

Why Ming Hanfu Shines in Autumn and Winter

Ming dynasty hanfu is the go-to for cold weather because it’s designed with heavier fabrics and layered styles that scream sophistication while keeping you toasty. Unlike the airy hanfu of spring, Ming styles are structured to handle chilly winds, making them ideal for fall and winter. Plus, their roomy designs let you layer up underneath without sacrificing that regal vibe. Here’s a rundown of the best Ming hanfu styles for the season.

Top Ming Hanfu Styles for Fall and Winter

1. Jiaoling Short Aozi with Pleated Skirt

The jiaoling short aozi (cross-collar short jacket) paired with a pleated skirt is a classic Ming hanfu combo. This style is lively and playful, giving off a youthful, spirited vibe. The aozi often features pipa xiu (pipa-shaped sleeves), which are curved like the musical instrument, adding a fun twist. Bonus: those wide sleeves are perfect for stashing small items!

The short aozi is super roomy, so you can pile on layers like sweaters or thermals underneath to stay warm—total winter hack! Pair it with a flowy pleated skirt, and you’ve got a look that’s both cozy and chic for casual outings or hanfu meetups.

2. Long Aozi for Extra Elegance

For a more formal vibe, the long aozi (cross-collar long jacket) is your pick. Compared to the short aozi, the long version is longer (duh!) and exudes a powerful, stately aura. It’s perfect for formal events like cultural festivals or weddings where you want to turn heads.

For formal occasions, the long aozi (cross-collar long jacket) delivers a stately aura. Pair it with a Mamian qun, a pleated skirt with a flat “skirt door,” for a dramatic, aristocratic vibe. This winter hanfu style is ideal for cultural festivals or weddings, ensuring you stay warm and turn heads. Learn more about Mamian qun at Hanfu History.

You can pair a long aozi with a pleated skirt for a balanced look or go all-out with a Mamian qun (horse-face skirt). Don’t worry—Mamian qun has nothing to do with horse faces! It’s a one-piece skirt made of two identical pleated panels, with a flat “skirt door” (men) on the front and back when styled right. The Mamian qun adds a dramatic, aristocratic flair, making it a winter favorite.

3. Bijia: The Cozy Layering Piece

Think of bijia as the hanfu version of a modern vest. This sleeveless jacket comes in short or long versions—pair a short bijia with a short aozi or a long bijia with a long aozi. Besides looking stylish, bijia adds extra warmth, making it a must-have for autumn and winter hanfu outfits. It’s both decorative and functional, perfect for layering over your aozi and skirt to stay snug.

4. Fangling Banxiu: Short and Warm

The fangling banxiu (square-collar half-sleeve top) is another Ming hanfu gem. This short top is typically worn over a short aozi and serves a similar role to bijia—it’s decorative but leans more toward warmth. The half-sleeve design adds a structured layer that keeps you cozy without bulking up your look. It’s great for casual winter days or layering for a polished hanfu ensemble.

5. Pifeng: The Ultimate Winter Cloak

Last but not least, the pifeng (Ming dynasty cloak) is like your favorite winter coat, but make it hanfu. With wide sleeves and multiple layers of thick fabric, pifeng is a game-changer for cold weather. Picture this: a long aozi, a Mamian qun, and a pifeng draped over it all—you’re basically set to conquer winter in style! The pifeng’s loose fit and heavy material provide top-notch insulation, making it ideal for outdoor events or chilly hanfu photoshoots.

Tips for Styling Autumn and Winter Hanfu

• Layer Smart: Ming hanfu’s loose cuts (especially aozi and pifeng) let you sneak in thermal layers or sweaters without ruining the silhouette.
• Choose Warm Fabrics: Look for hanfu made from thicker materials like wool blends or lined cotton for extra coziness.
• Accessorize: Add a scarf, belt, or traditional hairpin to elevate your Ming hanfu look while staying warm.
• Footwear: Pair your outfit with embroidered boots or layered socks to keep your feet toasty—check out our guide on hanfu boot styling for more tips!

Why Ming Hanfu Is a Winter Must-Have

Ming hanfu isn’t just about looking good—it’s practical for autumn and winter too. The endless layering options, from bijia to pifeng, let you stay warm without losing that noble, elegant vibe. Whether you’re heading to a cultural event, a hanfu gathering, or just want to slay your winter wardrobe, Ming styles like the jiaoling aozi, Mamian qun, and pifeng have got you covered.

So, ready to embrace the cold in style? Grab a Ming hanfu set, layer up, and rock that aristocratic charm all season long. Which style’s your fave—short aozi or dramatic pifeng? Let us know in the comments!