Introduction: As enthusiasts of Hanfu, we cherish this treasure of Chinese culture, deeply immersed in its profound and enduring historical heritage. However, the evolution of Chinese clothing is closely related to the changes of times, and there are some differences in details, styles, and designs of clothes from different dynasties. This article will focus on the distinctions between Tang Dynasty male Hanfu and Ming Dynasty Hanfu, guiding readers through a journey across time to experience the subtle differences in historical and cultural changes.
I. Changes in Clothing Styles
1. Tang Dynasty Male Hanfu:
The main type of male Hanfu in the Tang Dynasty was long robes, with fabrics tending towards coarse cloth. Common styles included “páo” (robe), “mǎng” (a type of robe), and “bèi zi” (a type of outerwear). The páo was the most common kind of shoulder cover, with a front hem that had a central opening. The mǎng was a combined garment and attire, symbolizing the status of noble men in the Tang Dynasty. The bèi zi was a more spacious and solemn type of clothing, usually worn for formal occasions. In addition, the Tang Dynasty also saw the popularity of lán shān (a type of robe) and mǎ guà (a type of jacket). Generally speaking, Tang Dynasty male Hanfu emphasized elegant, comfortable, simple, and generous designs, fully demonstrating the demeanor of ancient scholars.
2. Ming Dynasty Hanfu:
The style of male Hanfu in the Ming Dynasty underwent significant changes. The most distinctive feature was the “dà hóng páo” (big red robe), which had a loose waistline, long sleeves, crossed collars, and side slits. The dà hóng páo was made of silk, with bright colors and embroidery, gold embellishments, and other decorations on the sleeves to highlight the noble status. Additionally, the Ming Dynasty's male Hanfu featured a wider variety of richly decorated outerwear, such as tāo tiè patterned robes and the popular dàng yī (a type of coat). It can be seen that the Ming Dynasty's male Hanfu placed more emphasis on complex and rich decorative elements, presenting a more solemn appearance.
II. Changes in Materials and Colors
1. Tang Dynasty Male Hanfu:
The materials used for Tang Dynasty male Hanfu were mostly coarse cloth, but in some court-related events, finer silk would be chosen. Moreover, the colors of Tang Dynasty clothing were mainly bright red, blue, and yellow, reflecting the vibrant style of the prosperous era. During banquets, sacrifices, and other grand occasions, men's attire often featured rainbow-colored sashes, creating an eye-catching effect like dancing clouds.
2. Ming Dynasty Hanfu:
The Ming Dynasty's male Hanfu had richer and more diverse materials and colors. Ming Dynasty Hanfu often used high-quality fabrics such as silk, satin, silk, and cloth, with soft gauze lining inside to enhance comfort. In terms of color, the main hues were bright red, green, yellow, and other vibrant tones, while deeper shades like blue and purple also emerged. The changes in materials and colors of Ming Dynasty male Hanfu reflected the prosperity and transformation of the era.
III. Changes in Embroidery and Accessories
1. Tang Dynasty Male Hanfu:
The embroidery on Tang Dynasty male Hanfu mainly focused on the sleeves and collar areas, with common floral and bird patterns and cloud motifs evoking a sense of closeness to nature. Additionally, accessories for Tang Dynasty male Hanfu were relatively simple, generally including only belts, hats, and shoes and socks.
2. Ming Dynasty Hanfu:
In contrast, the embroidery and accessories on Ming Dynasty male Hanfu were more intricate. Various floral embroidery and gold-thread embroidery could be found on the sleeves, collars, and fronts of Ming Dynasty male Hanfu, making it unique. Regarding accessories, the belts, hats, shoes, and socks of Ming Dynasty male Hanfu were also more elaborate, such as embroidered belts, lace-trimmed hats, and embroidered shoes with floral and bird patterns, making men's attire more luxurious.
Conclusion: Through exploring the distinctions between Tang Dynasty male Hanfu and Ming Dynasty Hanfu, we have witnessed the accumulation and transformation of history and culture. From the simple and generous styles and bright colors of the Tang Dynasty to the complex and solemn designs, rich and varied embroidery, and accessories of the Ming Dynasty, the evolution of male Hanfu not only embodies the aesthetic concepts of each era but also reflects the inheritance and development of Chinese clothing culture across different dynasties. As Hanfu enthusiasts, we should respect history, inherit culture, and continuously pursue and convey the spiritual essence of Hanfu.
