Wearing new clothes from head to toe is thought to represent a fresh start and new hopes for the New Year. Although it is customary to wear new clothes for Chinese New Year, some individuals believe that wearing a sentimental piece is equally appropriate. The new clothing indicates a fresh start, but the emotional piece would reflect and honour your family.
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Tang Suit (唐装)
You may have seen actors in Chinese martial arts films dressed in this kind of clothes. The classic tang suit was popular throughout the Tang Dynasty, but the more current version mixes the Qing Dynasty’s man-riding jacket with the western suit.
Brocade, a costly cloth in ancient times, is generally utilized to produce these items. Between the torso and the sleeves, the tang suit was traditionally seamless. It was eventually adjusted since the looseness did not match today’s aesthetics, despite the fact that it allowed for pleasant mobility. Your tang suit can also be custom-made and embroidered with fortunate symbols for more auspicious-ness.
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Qipao (旗袍)
The qipao gained popularity during the Qing Dynasty, although today’s fashions are substantially different from those of the past. The original qipao was a conservative garment with elaborate motifs sewn on it. The current qipao although retaining some of it unique features is heavily affected by western culture as a result of colonialism.
From the beginning of the qipao to the present day, its style has shifted between long and short, tight, and loose. They’re fairly tight nowadays, and the apertures might reach as high as the thigh. The traditional Chinese knots and a rigid straight collar have still been retained for that signature look.
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Cheongsam
While the terms cheongsam and qipao are often used interchangeably (the two terms do indeed refer to the same piece of apparel), they actually have different origins. Cheongsam is from Cantonese origins and translates as “long gown” while qipao is from Mandarin roots and literally means “banner robe”.
Fashioned to fit more loosely, the cheongsam is a modified version of the Qing Dynasty dress style that was worn as formal wear in the early 1900s. The diagonal lapel indicates money and success, while the length represents prestige because lengthy clothes is not ideal for heavy work and thus signify nobility.
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Hanfu
The name “hanfu” literally translates to “clothing of the Han ethnicity,” and it refers to traditional clothes from the Han Dynasty. Although there are various variants, a hanfu attire usually consists of a blouse and a skirt. The shirt has long and wide sleeves with cross lapels, and the skirt is lengthy and may potentially start from the chest.
The Tang Dynasty Hanfu appears to have been influenced by the Japanese kimono, whereas the Ming Dynasty Hanfu is likely influenced by the Korean hanbok which result in their differences. This is due to the positive relationship that existed between both countries at the time.
When it comes to Chinese New Year clothing, red or gold is the colour to opt for. Black and white should be avoided since they are considered unlucky and bad. Also, while new garments are an important element of Spring Festival celebrations, it is not necessary to dress up for a dinner party in full traditional garb.
This article was brought to you by Han. I pretend to be broke in order to stay wealthy, yet I’m not wealthy.
