The traditional Chinese hanfu incorporates color matching, trendy patterns, and shapes. The fabric has a very important role to play, considering it is what determines the kind of wearing experience you have. Traditionally, most fabrics used are mainly silk, with hemp and cotton as supplements. But today, you can find all kinds of fabrics for the hanfu, including satin, crepe, gauze, damask, and even brocade. The different fabrics offer exquisite styles to match the varying preferences of hanfu buyers.
Cotton remains a largely used fabric in the hanfu market, and when blended with others, it offers amazing characteristics. The most common types of cotton you will get in the hanfu market include jacquard, hemp, burnt, and pure cotton. Cotton tends to be simple and natural, especially regarding texture and color. When used on hanfu, you get to enjoy amazing breathability, simplicity, skin friendliness, and other advantages highlighted below.
Cotton fabric pros
- Cotton is breathable. It absorbs sweat, allowing evaporation; hence, it will work more as your towel. The moisture-wicking properties reduce yeast and bacteria growth.
- It is soft and strong. The stretchy, soft nature of the fabric makes it very comfortable to wear. Its tightly spun yarn, on the other hand, gives it durability and strength. You can therefore be sure that your cotton hanfu will survive the test of time with the right care.
- Cotton in a non-allergenic fabric. It could be because of the chemical free natural fibers which keep skin irritations at bay. If you have sensitive skin, this fabric has got you covered. Ever wondered why gauze and bandages are cottons made? Well, now you know.
- The fabric is versatile. You will find it in wide varieties, with the most common being denim, chino, and corduroy. Its ability to take dye amazingly well also means that you will get your hanfu in vivid, beautiful colors just like you like them.
Cotton fabric cons
- The fabric tends to shrink. It would be best to go one size up, especially with tight fitting clothes, as a result.
- It wrinkles. This is especially the case with pure cotton. If ironing is not your cup of tea every time, consider cotton blends that reduce this tendency.
- It is prone to fading. Hanging your garment in the sun for extended periods will result in fading. It is a natural fiber, which also lint and bleeds easily.
The good clearly outweighs the bad, so you should want to check some of the excellent cotton hanfu options available, some of which are highlighted below.
1. Green Hanfu Dress
Your eyes will feel the texture of this dress literary. The design appearance is so real and simple, suitable for plain loving personalities. It is formal yet very casual, so you can play around with it as you wish to achieve your desired look. It features a tape you can easily adjust for the perfect fit. It remains trendy whether you wear it plain or with jewelry and other accessories.
2. Dragon Black Hanfu
It is majestic, all thanks to how well the black, white, and gold colors work together. The Wuxia novel is behind the inspiration of the dress, and the execution is breathtaking. The huge dragon at the back in black and gold is so pronounced your eyes can’t miss setting it apart. You will also be amazed by the skirt’s scribble-like prints and the sleeves and collar details. It is a bold hanfu and a must-have, for that matter.
3. Red Modern Hanfu
This red hanfu lets out the modern girl in you come out. The short black skirt has a school uniform feel, and the patterns give it a vintage appearance. The blouse stands out in white color and the Chinese buttons on gold. As for the coat, the red color, lace inserts, and embroidered flowers work stylishly well. It will serve you all through the seasons, depending on how you wear it. You could wear the set together or separately to modernize it even more to suit your preferences.
4. Dark Style Hanfu
The swallows and lotus details on this hanfu give it a cool, calming character. The dull green color is also to love, especially because it is naturally striking. You will remain comfortable and light wearing this; hence it is a dress suitable even for hectic days. Whether worn indoors or outdoors, the hanfu does not lose its charm. With the bold detailing, you could get away with not wearing simple jewelry. But if you like making a statement, you can choose accessories that are just as bold.
5. Pink Rose Hanfu
You get sophisticated, sweet, and delicate vibes when looking at this dress. It is without a doubt flattering and cheering thanks to the vibrant colors, which are almost shiny. The pink rose flower embroidery is spectacular; your hands won’t help but reach out to touch it. You will effortlessly make a memorable entrance to that party or date in this dress.
Buying your cotton hanfu
Cotton, being a popular fabric, should be easy to find. The options for cotton hanfu are huge, and all you will be required to do is decide which dress works for you.
You can filter using preferred colors or set types. For example, some are three-set while others are four-set; you can also find one-piece dresses. If you are specific with what you are looking for, then filtering comes in handy.
When looking at a dress of interest, take your time to check on the care instructions. The manufacturers will most likely advise you not to bleach, or machine washes your cotton hanfu. When you start by understanding the basic care requirements, you will find it easy to maintain the quality of your dress from the word go.
Also important is to pay attention to the sizing. Whereas it is possible to get an exact size, some designs might require going a size lower or higher.