In the color system of ancient Chinese clothing, black has always been a symbol of nobility. Usually, only the upper nobility could wear black. Derived from this, black Hanfu for women and men has always occupied a unique and noble position in the lineage of Chinese clothes. So, what styles did they have in different dynasties?
Typical Black Hanfu of Major Dynasties
During the Qin Dynasty clothing, the entire dynasty advocated black, and black became the exclusive color of the royal family. Its origin comes from the Qin Dynasty’s “water virtue” theory. In ancient China, the five elements of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth were each represented by a color, and the five-element colors were symbols of the orthodoxy and authority of each dynasty. The emperor’s coronation robe took black upper garment and reddish-yellow lower garment as the highest ritual costume form. Thus, most of the clothing in the Qin Dynasty was mainly black or dark black, which was an important manifestation of black Hanfu during this period.
In the Han Dynasty clothing, which inherited the system of the Qin Dynasty, black Hanfu remained important on important occasions. The curved-front deep robe was a typical black Hanfu style in the Han Dynasty. It usually had a black outer color, and the layered wrapping lapels showed stability and elegance.
During the Wei and Jin Dynasties, influenced by the proud character of famous scholars, the style of Hanfu tended to be bold and unrestrained, and the styles of Hanfu also increased. At this time, Hanfu mainly in black included black shirts with wide sleeves, short jackets, and even elegant crane coats. They gradually became the external symbol of the Wei and Jin Dynasties’ concept of “transcending Confucian teachings and following nature”.
In the Tang Dynasty clothing, its magnificent cultural atmosphere made Hanfu flourish with various styles during this period. Women’s Hanfu also saw the phenomenon of wearing black round-collar robes. Officials wore black robes, which were typical black Hanfu in the Tang Dynasty.
In the Song Dynasty clothes, Neo-Confucianism flourished, and the black Zhuzi deep robe derived from it was highly praised by literati. It was a typical black Hanfu style evolved from imitating Zhu Xi’s deep robe, with a square structure and emphasis on the order of heaven and earth.
In the Ming Dynasty, black clothing was also a representative official Hanfu. Styles such as black Taoist robes and tie-li still occupied a place among literati, scholars, and the official system.
The Beauty of Black Hanfu Design
Black Hanfu is also deeply rooted in the common genes of Chinese clothing. Plane cutting and straight-line structure form its main framework. When the garment pieces are spread out, they are as square as calligraphy. Different styles of Hanfu have different cutting techniques, but they all follow the core form of crossed collars and right lapels. The collar edges meet on the right side of the chest, forming a dignified “Y” shape line. This is not only a requirement of etiquette but also creates visual harmony and balance. With the addition of black, whether it is the drooping Hu sleeves of the Qin and Han Dynasties, the wide sleeves of the Wei and Jin Dynasties, the straight sleeves of the Tang and Song Dynasties, or the round-collar robes of the Ming Dynasty, once you put on one of them, you can feel the unique clothing aesthetic experience brought by black Hanfu when walking. The robe sleeves move slightly, as elegant as clouds, and when static, they exude the warm and smooth gentleness of black jade.
Black Hanfu has developed through thousands of years and carries a weight beyond color. Black is not only a representative of majesty and order but also a material sustenance of the Chinese spirit in the long river of history. Today, black Hanfu has radiated new cultural connotations and aesthetic values in the process of modern transformation, inheritance, and development.
What style does wearing black Hanfu convey?
For women, black Hanfu exudes elegance and grace. Choosing styles with crossed collars, right lapels, and flowing wide sleeves, paired with jade hairpins or pearl necklaces, highlights a dignified charm.
For men, black Hanfu suggests composure and fortitude. Styles like straight robes or round-collar robes in black, matched with jade buttons or leather belts, retain traditional ritual sense while the understated dark color enhances a calm and gentlemanly demeanor.
Where to Buy Black Hanfu
Although many people like to wear black Hanfu, I want to remind you that when choosing, you should buy Hanfu with embroidery, which will have a better effect. You should also choose a version that suits modern figures. You can pay attention to our store. There are many pictures of black Hanfu for men and women on it, providing styles from Ruqun (a type of traditional Chinese skirt) to capes. We offer worry-free after-sales service and have a good reputation. You can consult us if you have any questions.
