Introduction
Pinpointing the Main Idea and Purpose
Can Men Wear HanFu, which can be understood as “Han – Dynasty clothing” or “traditional Chinese clothing”, is definitely not just for girls. Guys can totally rock it too! It’s a super broad concept that covers a bunch of traditional Chinese clothing styles for both genders. In fact, there are quite a few HanFu styles that are specifically made for guys. Usually, guys pair pants with an upper garment, while girls tend to go for skirts and dresses. Styles like the Dachaung and Daopao are typical HanFu for men.
This article is here to give those who don’t know much about HanFu for men a quick start. It also shares my thoughts when I’m shopping for HanFu. The content won’t go too deep into history, it’s more on the surface, but it’ll focus on introducing the form and function of HanFu. And throughout this, we’ll be asking a lot, can men wear Hanfu? Well, they sure can!
Characteristics and Evolution of HanFu for Men
Not Gender – Exclusive
First off, we gotta be clear. HanFu isn’t limited to one gender from the start. It represents traditional Chinese clothing, and a lot of its styles can be worn by both guys and girls. This clothing system breaks the gender barrier, showing how adaptable it is. So, can men wear Hanfu? Absolutely! It’s designed to be inclusive.
Dynamic Evolution
HanFu has been changing over time. In the early days, some HanFu designs were simpler, and there wasn’t a big difference between what guys and girls wore. They were often unisex. But as history went on, more gender – specific styles showed up. This change reflects how social culture and fashion tastes have evolved. It’s interesting to see how HanFu has adapted, and still, the question can men wear Hanfu remains relevant as its styles develop.
Modern HanFu
Modern HanFu styles blend the classic elements of traditional HanFu with adjustments based on modern fashion needs and comfort. This makes it fit better into modern lifestyles. It keeps that traditional charm while also being up – to – date. And for sure, men can wear Hanfu in these modern styles too.
A Detailed Look at HanFu Styles for Men
Separated Top and Bottom
- Mianfu：This was the emperor’s special clothing. It was covered in all these symbols and decorations that represented the universe, like the Mian Guan (crown), Bixi (apron – like piece), and the big belt. But in modern times, it’s not really for everyday wear. It’s more of a symbol of history and culture. Like when we imagine what Qin Shi Huang’s Mianfu might have looked like today, we can’t actually put it on, but it gives us a sense of how powerful ancient emperors were. So, can men wear Hanfu like this? Well, not in a practical, daily – wear way, but it shows the grandeur of HanFu for men in history.
- Xuanduan：Xuanduan looks similar to Mianfu. It was originally the court dress for officials and priests during ceremonies. It also came with accessories like Bixi and Peishou. Nowadays, it’s suitable for really formal occasions, like national ceremonies and religious events. It gives off a serious and respectful vibe. Clearly, men can wear Hanfu like Xuanduan on these special occasions.
- Yishang：This was the relatively simple clothing for ordinary people, especially scholars or gentlemen. But these days, a lot of so – called men’s Yishang on the market have problems. Many are just enlarged versions of women’s clothes. A real men’s Yishang should be a long robe with wide sleeves, which is great for casual daily wear. We can show some examples of proper, popular, and mixed – style Yishang, and talk about the differences and debates around them. And yes, men can wear Hanfu like this Yishang in their daily life.
One – Piece Style
- Shenyi：This was a solemn outfit for scholars and gentlemen. It was often paired with Peishou, mostly in single colors, and often with a Fujin (a kind of headscarf). In modern times, Shenyi is perfect for formal events like graduation ceremonies and coming – of – age ceremonies. It makes the wearer look refined. Men can definitely wear Hanfu like Shenyi to show their elegance.
- Lanshan：Lanshan is a loose, belted robe for scholars. Compared to Shenyi, because its collar doesn’t fold, it’s a bit less formal. It’s suitable for both formal academic events and daily wear. It gives a feeling of being at ease while still looking refined. So, can men wear Hanfu like Lanshan? For sure, it’s a great choice for different situations.
- Yesa and Tieli：These two styles were influenced by Mongolian clothing from the Yuan Dynasty. They have bright colors, bold patterns, and pleated skirts. Yesa has horse – face pleats, while Tieli doesn’t. In modern times, they’re great for sports events or when you want to look like a martial – arts hero in your daily life. They’ve also become a unisex trendy style. Clearly, men can wear Hanfu like Yesa and Tieli to show their cool side.
All – in – One Cut
- Yuanlingpao：Yuanlingpao is like a long shirt. It was popular in different dynasties like the Tang, Song, and Ming. The Tang – style was influenced by Sogdian and Persian styles, and the Ming – style gives an official – like feel. In modern times, it’s really good for casual daily wear. We can show examples of Tang – style, Ming – style, and Ming – style Yuanlingpao for weddings to feel the different charms. And of course, men can wear Hanfu like Yuanlingpao every day.
- Daopao and Zhishen：These two were originally worn by religious clergy, but later became popular among scholars and gentlemen. The main difference between them is the position of the hem. Daopao and Zhishen are relatively formal but can also be worn casually. Especially Daopao, it has a sense of being special but not too over – the – top for certain occasions. Men can wear Hanfu like these to different events, depending on how they want to present themselves.
- Zhiduō：Zhiduō is similar to Daopao and Zhishen, but it doesn’t have a hem, and the slits are open. This design makes it really suitable for casual daily activities, especially for exercise. Men can wear Hanfu like Zhiduō when they want to be comfortable and move freely.
Top and Trousers
Duandǎ (Shùhè, Rúkù)：This was the daily clothing for Chinese farmers and ordinary people, with an upper garment and trousers. Its biggest advantage is that it’s easy to move around in, suitable for all kinds of work. And yes, men can wear Hanfu like Duandǎ for daily tasks.
Underwear
Zhongyi：Zhongyi is the white undergarment for almost all HanFu, including belted trousers and an upper piece. But nowadays, some people choose to replace it with modern underwear. However, Zhongyi is still an important part of traditional HanFu for men. Can men wear Hanfu without Zhongyi? Well, they can with modern alternatives, but Zhongyi has its own traditional charm.
Outer Garments
- Pifeng：Pifeng is like a windbreaker. In the Ming Dynasty, people often tied it in front to keep the wind out. It adds a cool and free – spirited touch to the whole look. Men can wear Hanfu with Pifeng to look stylish.
- Dachaung or Chǎngyī：Dachaung or Chǎngyī is like a cloak, but thicker, heavier, and with wide sleeves. It’s mainly for cold weather, keeping you warm and looking good. Men can wear Hanfu like this to stay cozy and look great in the cold.
- Dǒupéng (Note)：Although Dǒupéng is popular in ancient – costume dramas and is often worn over other clothes, it’s actually a Manchu – style garment, not traditional HanFu. We should be aware of this when thinking about what men can wear in HanFu.
Accessories
Belts and Waist – Hanging Ornaments：Nowadays, most accessories are matched with specific clothes. For men, a common accessory is the belt, and you can also hang waist – hanging ornaments on it to add a bit of an old – fashioned charm. Men can wear Hanfu with these accessories to enhance their look.
Headwear
Headwear was really important in the past. But in modern times, except for formal occasions, most men who wear HanFu don’t pay much attention to it. Headwear is usually paired with specific clothes to show overall harmony. But can men wear Hanfu without headwear? In modern, casual settings, they can, but it might lack that complete traditional look.
Footwear
When it comes to shoes, it’s usually shoes or boots. But some people also pair HanFu with Converse or tennis shoes. Generally, boots match some HanFu styles better, and straw sandals can give a wandering ascetic look. Men can choose different footwear to match their HanFu, depending on the style they want.
Color and Decoration Suggestions
When choosing colors for HanFu for men, it’s better to go for darker, more conservative colors. Avoid the black – red combination, and be careful with yellow and white with flowery designs. For decoration, some HanFu can be decorated appropriately, but don’t overdo it. This way, you can keep the proper style of HanFu for men and show its unique charm. And through all these choices, the answer to can men wear Hanfu is a resounding yes, with a whole range of styles and options to express themselves.
