Chinese hanfu, with its rich history and intricate designs, is more than just traditional attire—it’s a cultural symbol that contains the history of ancient China. Hanfu, which translates to “Han clothing,” refers to the traditional dress of the Han Chinese people, the majority ethnic group in China. This attire has evolved over thousands of years, each dynasty leaving its mark on the fabric and form.
The origins of hanfu can be traced back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE), but its roots dig even deeper into China’s historical soil, dating back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046 – 256 BCE). The hanfu consists of several layers, often characterized by wide sleeves, a crossed collar, and a sash. These garments are typically made from silk, which China specialized in ancient times.
Hanfu styles have varied significantly across different dynasties. During the Han Dynasty, simplicity and elegance were the goals, with plain fabrics and minimal embroidery. The Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE) introduced more vibrant colors and elaborate patterns, reflecting the well-being of the era. The Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644 CE) brought further changes, with intricate designs and a more structured silhouette.
In addition to its visual appeal, hanfu carries deep cultural significance. It reflects the philosophies and values of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, which have shaped Chinese society. The flowing lines of the hanfu are often compared to the natural movements of water, symbolizing harmony and balance, keys in these philosophies.
Many accounts on Douyin (the Chinese version of TikTok) dedicate their whole page to showing off Hanfu. On the side is an example of this. The design is very intricate and all sorts of personalities can be shown through it. Chinese people would often wear it for festivals, and cultural events.
There are also some more details like sewing a dragon and phoenix for the emperor and empress, respectively, to show power and authority. There are also rules in the past regarding the color of the Hanfu such as wearing red hanfu to weddings.
