Wufu is a traditional Chinese costume with a long history and profound cultural connotations. Although it is no longer a common wear in everyday life, the five costumes still have a special symbolic meaning, representing the hierarchical system and etiquette norms of ancient Chinese society.
The concept of five costumes is derived from the ancient Chinese ritual system, which is divided into five levels, namely court dress, banquet dress, engagement dress, crown dress and mourning dress. Each costume has its own unique design and purpose, related to the social status and occasion of the individual. The features and uses of each of the five suits will be detailed below.
Chao Dress: The court dress is the clothing worn by ancient Chinese officials at the imperial court or on official occasions. It is usually made of ornate silk and comes with a variety of accessories such as hats, belts, and shoes. The court dress represented the identity and status of the officials, reflecting the hierarchy of ancient Chinese society.
Banquet dress: Banquet dress is the clothing worn for formal banquets or special social occasions. It is also ornate and delicate, often made of silk or other noble materials. The design of the banquet dress pays attention to the opulence and intricate details to show the status and opulence of the host.
Wedding gown: A wedding dress is a garment used in wedding ceremonies. It is usually a special dress worn by the bride and groom on their wedding day. The design of the gown depends on regional and ethnic traditions, but it is usually brightly colored and beautifully patterned. It symbolizes the joy and happiness of the newlyweds.
Guanfu: Guanfu is the clothing worn by men in ancient China as adults, usually around the age of twenty. It signifies that a man has reached adulthood and can participate in social and political activities. The crown garment includes special headdresses and garments to show the importance of the rites of passage.
Mourning dress: Mourning dress is a garment worn to mourn the death of a loved one. It is usually black and symbolizes grief and mourning. The design of the mourning garments is simple and unpretentious, reflecting moderation and piety during mourning.
Although the five costumes are no longer commonly used in modern society, they are still preserved on some special occasions and ceremonies to inherit and promote traditional Chinese culture. The five costumes represent the etiquette and hierarchy of ancient Chinese society, while also reflecting the exquisite craftsmanship and unique design of ancient Chinese costumes. Therefore, understanding the five costumes is of great significance to understanding the history and culture of China, which is not only clothing, but also a part of Chinese culture.