Introduction:
Hanfu, as one of the representatives of traditional Chinese clothing, has a long history and rich cultural connotations. The Ming and Song Dynasties were two important stages in the development of Hanfu. Although there are similarities in the overall style, there are significant differences in details, tailoring, accessories, and other aspects. In men's clothing, the differences between Ming-style Hanfu and Song-style Hanfu are particularly noticeable. This article will discuss the differences in these two stages of men's clothing from seven aspects: color, style, lapel, cuffs, collar, waistband, and accessories.
1. Color
The colors of Ming-style Hanfu are more diverse and vibrant, with bright colors such as emerald green, goose yellow, and vermilion red, representing the prosperity and flourishing of Ming society. On the other hand, Song-style Hanfu often uses simple and light colors, such as indigo blue, persimmon red, and cream yellow, emphasizing a reserved and refined cultural atmosphere.
2. Style
1. Upper Garments
(1) The upper garments of Ming-style Hanfu are in the form of robes, with sleeves often being wide and large, providing comfort and ease. Edging and embroidery are common, and luxurious silks like brocade are frequently used fabrics.
(2) The upper garments of Song-style Hanfu are in the form of patchwork, with full or half sleeves that fit closely to the body. The fabric is usually soft satin or silk, with a simple and elegant design.
2. Lower Garments
(1) The lower garments of Ming-style Hanfu include pleated skirts and straight-crotch pants. Pleated skirts reach above the knees, come in various styles, and are often brightly colored; straight-crotch pants are loose and comfortable, with hemlines that expose the feet.
(2) The lower garments of Song-style Hanfu are either doumi (long pants) or skirt-pants. Doumi-style long pants have hems that reach the ankles; skirt-pants extend into a skirt at the bottom, with the hemline being a skirt.
3. Lapel
The lapels of Ming-style Hanfu are wide, allowing for the display of exquisite innerwear and contributing to a graceful flow when worn, enhancing the wearer's posture. In contrast, the lapels of Song-style Hanfu are more fitted, with different styles of upper garments having slightly high collars or flat collars, reflecting the more solemn and substantial cultural atmosphere of Song society.
4. Cuffs
The cuffs of Ming-style Hanfu are relatively loose, with common styles including wasp-waist cuffs and umbrella cuffs, giving an impression of elegance and grace. The cuffs of Song-style Hanfu are more fitted, with straight-hanging cuffs that highlight the male figure.
5. Collar
The collars of Ming-style Hanfu are relatively wide, often made of materials like brocade and gauze, and decorated with embellishments to accentuate the beauty of the neck. The collars of Song-style Hanfu are narrower, with common styles including mother-of-pearl collars, middle collars, and gourd collars, creating a refined and delicate atmosphere.
6. Waistband
The waistbands of Ming-style Hanfu are generally made of sashes or ribbons, emphasizing the waistline. The sashes are often wide, especially in official attire, where they are more prominent. Song-style Hanfu focuses on the overall silhouette, with thinner and longer waistbands that help to highlight the elegance of the figure.
7. Accessories
Ming-style Hanfu features a variety of accessories, such as hats, shoes, and sashes, adorned with intricate details, highlighting a luxurious and opulent appearance. Song-style Hanfu accessories emphasize the refinement of details, such as bow ties, embroidery, and metal plaques, reflecting the elegance and delicacy of Song culture.
Conclusion:
There are significant differences between Ming-style Hanfu and Song-style Hanfu in men's clothing. Ming-style Hanfu emphasizes vibrant colors, loose and comfortable styles, wide lapels, and cuffs, showcasing the prosperity and grandeur of Ming society. Song-style Hanfu focuses on simple and light colors, fitted and tailored styles, well-fitted lapels and cuffs, highlighting the simplicity and elegance of Song society. Whether it is Ming-style Hanfu or Song-style Hanfu, both reflect the unique charm of ancient Chinese culture under different historical backgrounds.
