In ancient Chinese history, Hanfu has always been a symbol of national pride. In the evolution of Hanfu, the Ming and Tang Dynasties are considered two peak periods for Hanfu styles. However, the styles of these two periods are distinctly different: the Ming Dynasty emphasized practicality and solemnity, while the Tang Dynasty highlighted splendor and elegance. This article will explore the clash between Ming-style and Tang-style Hanfu, delving into the perfect blend of tradition and classicism between these two historical periods.
1. Characteristics of Ming-style Hanfu:
Ming-style Hanfu design emphasizes practicality and solemnity. Men's Hanfu mainly consists of ru (a type of jacket), shan (a formal robe), magua (a coat), and trousers. The ru is an upper garment that is light and comfortable, suitable for daily wear. The shan is more formal and is often used in official ceremonial occasions. The magua is an outerwear that gives a sense of dignity and grandeur. The trousers complement the upper garments, emphasizing overall harmony.
Women's Hanfu features simplicity and elegance, focusing on natural lines. Elements such as wide sleeves, ruqun (a skirt with a top), duojin (a front-closing design), and zhiling (a straight collar) are common in women's Hanfu. Wide sleeves convey a sense of grace, while the ruqun highlights the feminine curves. The duojin design embodies the gentleness and dignity of women, and the zhiling makes the entire outfit appear more dignified and elegant.
2. Characteristics of Tang-style Hanfu:
Tang-style Hanfu is renowned for its splendor and elegance. Men's Hanfu primarily includes dan yi (a single-layer robe), pao (a long robe), and gua (a coat). The dan yi is a luxurious upper garment commonly worn by nobles, with rich textures and diverse patterns, often used for ceremonial occasions when going out. The pao is the preferred choice for formal attire, adorned with intricate gold and silver threads and complex designs, highlighting nobility and taste. The gua is an outerwear that complements the dan yi or pao, adding depth and richness to the overall look.
Women's Hanfu places greater emphasis on luxury and subtlety. Elements such as changpao (a long robe), ruqun, duojin, and shouyi (a special garment for specific occasions) are unique features of Tang-style women's Hanfu. The changpao comes in a variety of fabrics with intricate patterns, giving a noble and luxurious feel. The ruqun is a daily wear for women, with a longer length that adds a unique flowing sensation. The duojin design remains a symbol of women's gentleness, dignity, and subtlety, while the shouyi is worn for special occasions.
3. The Clash of Ming and Tang-style Hanfu:
The clash between Ming and Tang-style Hanfu perfectly combines tradition and classicism, forming a Hanfu style that is both dignified and elegant with a unique character.
In men's Hanfu, the solemnity and elegance of the Ming Dynasty combined with the splendor and elegance of the Tang Dynasty create a look that is luxurious yet simple. For example, pairing a Ming-style magua with a Tang-style dan yi results in a look that is both opulent and dignified. Additionally, combining Ming-style trousers with a Tang-style pao enhances the three-dimensional appearance of the overall outfit.
In women's Hanfu, the simplicity and elegance of the Ming Dynasty blended with the luxury and subtlety of the Tang Dynasty form a style that is both noble and natural. For example, pairing a Ming-style wide sleeve with a Tang-style changpao showcases both the elegance and femininity of women while highlighting their nobility and taste. Combining a Ming-style ruqun with a Tang-style shouyi adds a sense of dignity and subtlety to the entire look.
Conclusion:
The clash between Ming and Tang-style Hanfu demonstrates the charm of a perfect blend of tradition and classicism. The practicality and solemnity of the Ming Dynasty combined with the splendor and elegance of the Tang Dynasty create a unique style that is both dignified and luxurious. This also highlights the unique status of Hanfu in Chinese traditional culture and provides modern people with an opportunity to appreciate ancient attire. Whether during traditional festivals or special occasions, the clash between Ming and Tang-style Hanfu offers a unique visual enjoyment and cultural experience.
