Winter in China is a time for layering up and staying cozy, and the traditional Hanfu clothing of the Song Dynasty offers a unique and elegant way to do so. The following is a guide to wearing Song-style Hanfu as daily wear during the colder months.
The Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), known for its cultural prosperity and refined elegance, left a profound influence on traditional Chinese clothing. The winter styles of Hanfu during this period were designed with warmth and comfort in mind, making them perfect for modern daily wear.
Outer Layers: The Jacket and Robe
The outer layers in Song-style Hanfu are essential for keeping warm in colder weather. The jackets are often made of thick yet lightweight materials like silk or cotton, with intricate patterns and designs. These jackets are often paired with long robes that provide additional warmth and protection from the cold wind.
Mid Layers: The Tunic and Overdress
The mid-layers are crucial for maintaining body heat. Song-style tunics are often made of warm materials like wool or silk, and are designed to fit closely to the body. Overdresses, which are often layered over the tunics, provide additional warmth and protection from the cold weather. These layers can be worn with different styles and colors to create a unique and personal look.
Under Layers: The Underdress and Bottoms
The under layers are just as important as the outer layers in maintaining warmth. Song-style underdresses are often made of soft and lightweight materials like silk or cotton, and are designed to be comfortable and cozy. Bottoms like trousers or skirts are also worn to complete the look. These layers help retain body heat and provide a comfortable wear experience.
Accessories and Footwear
Accessories like hats, scarves, and mittens are essential for staying warm during the winter. Song-style hats are often made of thick materials like fur or wool, and are designed to protect the head and ears from the cold.Scarves and mittens are also available in various styles and colors to match different outfits. Footwear during this period was often made of thick leather or cloth materials, with sturdy soles and warm lining to protect the feet from the cold weather.
Colors and Patterns
The colors and patterns in Song-style Hanfu are often inspired by nature and traditional Chinese culture. Winter styles often feature warm hues like red, brown, gray, and black, which are not only cozy but also exude an air of elegance and sophistication. Patterns like floral prints, geometric shapes, or traditional Chinese patterns like dragon and phoenix designs are often used to enhance the visual appeal of the outfits.
In conclusion, wearing Song-style Hanfu as daily wear during winter is not only cozy and comfortable but also an excellent way to showcase traditional Chinese culture and elegance. With layers of jackets, robes, tunics, overdresses, underdresses, bottoms, accessories, and footwear, you can create unique and personal looks that keep you warm during the colder months. The colors and patterns in these outfits are also an excellent way to express your personality and style. So why not try out Song-style Hanfu this winter? Embrace the traditional beauty while staying cozy and comfortable.
Note: While wearing Hanfu is a great way to appreciate traditional Chinese culture, it's important to remember that comfort should always be a priority. Adjustments to the clothing may be necessary to ensure a comfortable fit, depending on personal preferences and weather conditions.