The Complete Guide to Tang Dynasty Hanfu Womens Fashion

In the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), Hanfu women's fashion reached a peak of elegance and diversity. This era saw a flourishing cultural exchange and the development of distinctive clothing styles that reflected the prosperity of the dynasty. The following article delves into the world of Tang Dynasty Hanfu women's clothing, exploring the various components that made up their ensembles.

1. 

   The Topwear: The main topwear for Tang Dynasty Hanfu women was the cheongsam (上襦), which was a long-sleeved, buttoned-up garment that featured a loose fit. It was often embroidered with intricate patterns and designs, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. The color of the cheongsam varied from bright hues to more subdued tones, depending on the occasion and the wearer's status.

2. The Bottomwear: The most distinctive bottomwear of Tang Dynasty Hanfu women was the chixiong (裙子), a type of skirt that was usually made of silk or other luxurious materials. The chixiong was often pleated and decorated with patterns, giving it a unique appearance. Its length and style varied, with some being quite narrow and others more flowy, reflecting the fashion trends of the time.

3. The Accessories: Tang Dynasty Hanfu women were known for their exquisite accessories, which added a touch of elegance to their outfits. These accessories included jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, which were often made of precious stones or metals. In addition, they also wore hair ornaments such as combs and flowers, which were used to decorate their hairstyles. These accessories not only enhanced their beauty but also served as symbols of status and wealth.

4. The Footwear: Tang Dynasty Hanfu women's footwear was known as the MuTian (木屐), which were wooden shoes that were often covered with silk or other luxurious materials. These shoes featured a distinct heel and were often decorated with patterns or carvings, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. MuTian not only served as footwear but also added to the overall elegance of the ensemble.

5. The Makeup and Hairstyles: Tang Dynasty Hanfu women were known for their vibrant makeup and intricate hairstyles. They often wore a red lip color called '朱唇' and applied face powder to achieve a fair complexion. Their hair was often styled into complex knots and rolls, which were then adorned with flowers, jewelry, or other ornaments. These hairstyles and makeup techniques were closely linked to the fashion trends of the era and reflected the cultural values of beauty at that time.

6. The Textiles and Materials: The quality and type of materials used in Tang Dynasty Hanfu women's clothing reflected their status and wealth. Silk was the most common material, but other luxurious materials such as brocade, velvet, and fur were also used. These materials were often dyed in vibrant colors or embroidered with intricate patterns, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.

In conclusion, Tang Dynasty Hanfu women's fashion was a reflection of the prosperity and cultural exchange of the era. Their clothing, accessories, makeup, and hairstyles were all closely linked to the fashion trends of the time and reflected the cultural values of beauty and status. The intricate details and craftsmanship that went into creating these ensembles made them a treasured part of Chinese history and culture.

Today, Hanfu has experienced a revival, with many people embracing this traditional clothing as part of their daily attire or for special events. The study and appreciation of Tang Dynasty Hanfu women's fashion not only help us understand the history and culture of China but also inspire us to appreciate and preserve our rich heritage.