What Did People Wear in Ancient China?

China is a very big country, so traditional clothing was different depending on the weather, the type of job people had, and their family background. Long shirts called tunics were popular for both men and women. Women’s tunics were usually longer and went all the way down to the ankles. When it was cold, people also wore jackets and pants to stay warm.

Most people wore clothes made from a plant fiber called hemp. But families who had more money used soft, smooth silk. Later on, around the 13th century, cotton became more common, and more people were able to wear cotton clothes too.

Traditional Chinese Clothing Styles

There are three famous types of clothing in Chinese history:

• Pienfu: A special outfit for ceremonies, made with a long top and a long skirt or pants.
• Changpao: A one-piece robe that looked like a long dress.
• Shenyi: A mix of top and bottom sewn together into one long piece of clothing.

In the 1900s, a dress called the cheongsam became popular for women. It was simple, stylish, and is still copied around the world today.

What Do People Wear in China Today?

Today, most people in Chinese cities wear clothes that look similar to what people wear in other countries—pants, shirts, dresses, and jackets. Dark colors are still common, but red is worn at special times like weddings because red is the color of luck in China. On the other hand, white is sometimes worn at funerals to show respect for someone who has passed away.

Learning About Culture Through Clothes

Learning about traditional clothes is one fun way to explore Chinese history and customs. Programs like Dinolingo help children learn not just the Chinese language, but also the stories and traditions behind it. With games, songs, and videos, kids can enjoy learning about China from home.