The Tangzhuang

Do you love Chinese culture and clothing from this culture? Learn more about one of the most typical clothes of China: the Tangzhuang. Tangzhuangs are much less known than Qipao or Hanfu, but they are still very interesting with a beautiful history and culture behind them.

This is why through this article we have tried to share with you all the know-how of traditional Chinese jackets, to satisfy your thirst for culture in the Middle Kingdom.

You will know the whole history of Chinese jackets, from their creation to their symbolism. You will also find some advice, prepared by our team to choose your Chinese jacket perfectly.

The History of Tangzhuang

Although humble and simple in appearance, the traditional Chinese jacket, known as Tangzhuang, can be worn as both a formal and casual garment. daily as a garment of ceremony. The origins of Tangzhuang date back to the end of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Derived from the Magua, a garment of the Manchus that the Han were required to wear during the Qing Dynasty. The Tangzhuang is normally worn by men, although women sometimes wear them as well.

In Chinese culture, the Mao suit, Western suit, and Tang suit are the main forms of formal wear for men on many occasions. Tangzhuang is made in a variety of colors, most commonly red, navy blue, gold, black, and green. One of the most common designs is the use of Chinese characters as monograms, such as Fu (happiness) or Shou (longevity), to spread good fortune and wishes.

Literally, Tangzhuang means "clothing of the Tang Dynasty" (618-907), but the modern version has no relation to the clothing of the Tang Dynasty. The modern version evolved from a kind of Manchurian garment. It became famous because it was worn by leaders of various APEC countries. Since then, this new type of garment has been called Tangzhuang and has enjoyed great popularity among Chinese people and abroad.

The word "Tangzhuang" was actually created by Chinese people fromoverseas. Because of the high reputation of the Tang Dynasty, foreigners sometimes call the Chinese "Tang people" and thus, their costume is called "Tangzhuang". This word was eventually adopted by the Chinese after 2001.

Tangzhuang is distinguished by four characteristics. The mandarin collar with front opening is a traditional Chinese style. The opening is symmetrical and the collar stands straight. Chinese knots, made by hand, are used as buttons as well as decorations. Another feature is the fabric, which is usually a traditional fabric such as Chinese silk. The solid western cutting method and the shoulder pads make the Chinese jacket fit better.

Based on these four characteristics, several other styles are invented by designers. Currently, there are three main types: the style traditional, the style national and the style contemporary, more fashionable. The traditional style has all the traditional Chinese elements. The colors are usually red, black and sapphire blue. It is usually decorated with a "Tuanhua", a traditional Chinese pattern resembling a mandala. This type of clothing was mostly worn at traditional Chinese festivals or wedding ceremonies. This style is very popular all over the world. National style jackets use traditional elements, but change the Tuanhua patterns into poems and other traditional auspicious patterns. It was usually worn for everyday wear. The fabric used is usually cotton rather than embroidered silk.

Another use of the term "Tangzhuang" refers to a form of traditional "Hanfu" (clothing of the Han people) from the Tang Dynasty. This type of clothing usually features crossed collars and a belt to fasten the clothes without buttons. A wide variety of styles and beautiful designs were the main characteristics of the traditional clothing from the Tang Dynasty. This type of clothing influenced traditional clothing in many Asian countries, such as the kimono in Japan and the hanbok in Korea.

Choosing your Chinese Jacket

To choose your Chinese Tangzhuang jacket, it is recommended to use bright and warm colors to give energy to the fabric. In China, colors are of great importance and a red garment will not have the same meaning as a black one. Here are the meanings of the 5 traditional colors in China related to 5 elements, so you can wear the right jacket according to the appropriate meaning:

1) Black

Representing the element of water, you will wear black clothing for serious and formal occasions, as in most Western countries. Black is also associated with neutrality, the Chinese wear it in everyday life.

2) Red

Associated with the element of Fire, it is a symbol of happiness and luck. Red is worn for celebrations and parties; it is a symbol of joy and good fortune. This is why red is the predominant color during the Chinese New Year when we wish each other a happy new year and good fortune for the coming year. If you are looking for a jacket to celebrate the New Year or for a wedding, a red Tangzhuang is what you need.

3) Yellow

Representing the earth, it is a symbol of wisdom, glory, harmony. In ancient times it was reserved for the emperor because yellow is a symbol of royalty.

4) Green

Associated with wood just like Blue, green is also associated with health, prosperity and harmony. But it can also have a negative connotation, for example a green hat is associated with infidelity.

5) White

Associated with metal, it symbolizes purity, brilliance and fulfillment. Unlike in Western countries, white is the color of mourning and funeral ceremonies.

You can also match your traditional Chinese jacket with typical Chinese pants, the two sets will immerse you in the traditional world of the Middle Kingdom.

Now that you know everything there is to know about Chinese jackets, come and discover our collection of traditional Tangzhuangs!