In the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), China experienced a flourishing era of culture, art, and fashion. The attire worn by women during this period, known as Hanfu, reflected the sophistication and elegance of the era. This article delves into the complete set of Hanfu worn by Tang Dynasty women.
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The Topwear: The outer layer of clothing for Tang Dynasty women was typically a long robe called a chao (or chao-shang) which was worn over the entire body. It was often brightly colored and adorned with intricate patterns and designs. The robe was usually made of silk or other fine materials and was often embroidered with gold or silver thread.
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The Underwear: The undergarments worn by Tang Dynasty women were equally intricate and well-designed. They wore a variety of underrobes called zhongshan or chengshan which were made of fine silk or cotton. These undergarments were often brightly colored and featured intricate patterns that matched the outer robe.
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The Headwear: Women in the Tang Dynasty wore various types of headgear including headbands, veil-like headwear called face veil, and hair ornaments. These headwear not only served as a fashion accessory but also helped to keep their hair in place. The hair ornaments were often made of precious materials like jade, gold, or silver and were adorned with gemstones and pearls.
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The Footwear: Tang Dynasty women wore a variety of footwear known as shoes or xiu. These were often made of silk or leather and featured intricate patterns and designs. Some shoes were even adorned with pearls, gemstones, or embroidery. The shape of the shoes was also designed to match the fashion trends of the era.
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The Accessories: The Tang Dynasty women's Hanfu attire was further enhanced by various accessories such as jewelry, fans, and handbags. These accessories were often made of precious materials like gold, silver, jade, or pearls and featured intricate designs and patterns. Fans were often used to cover the face during hot weather or as a decorative accessory during social events.
The color and design of Hanfu attire in the Tang Dynasty were influenced by various factors such as social status, age, and regional differences. However, the overall style was often vibrant and colorful with a strong emphasis on patterns and designs.
The Tang Dynasty was a time of cultural exchange and influence, and this can be seen in the evolution of Hanfu attire. The influence of foreign cultures can be seen in the use of bright colors, intricate patterns, and designs that were often incorporated into Hanfu attire.
The complete set of Hanfu worn by Tang Dynasty women was not just about fashion but also reflected their social status and cultural identity. Each piece of clothing, accessory, and design had its own significance and symbolism which was often associated with their cultural and religious beliefs.
In conclusion, the Hanfu attire worn by women in the Tang Dynasty was a reflection of their culture, fashion, and social status. The intricate designs, vibrant colors, and precious materials used in their clothing and accessories show the sophistication and elegance of this era. The complete set of Hanfu worn by Tang Dynasty women is not only a study of fashion but also a window into the cultural and historical heritage of China.
