Most Chinese hanfu clothing seems suitable for summer and spring. But does this mean you cannot rock your favorite traditional wear because of the weather? What do you need during winter and fall? The good news is that you can still find very good hanfu outfits suitable even for the colder seasons. You can wear your favorite hanfu dress combined with a cloak or cape for that authentic look without compromising health.
A hanfu coat is an essential item during winter; therefore, it is advisable to invest in a few pieces to keep you covered. The coats are designed for warmth and comfort during the cold season. Therefore, aoqun coats are a very good choice, especially because of their longer lengths and wider widths compared to the Ru Shan. Moreover, the coat works amazingly with a huge variety of ruqun outfits.
Woolen coats are the most fashionable styles and will make it possible for you to even ice skate! They are chic and can be paired with hanfu bottoms, not just pants and skirts. To transform your outfit instantly, throw on a vintage cloak. The retro winter hanfu cloaks are trendy and are not heavy or bulky, so you can still engage in activities comfortably. It’s elegance and warmth what you are looking for during winter? Pair a hanfu cloak with a warm aoqun top and booties, and you are ready to hit the road.
Hanfu cloak and cape, what’s the difference?
In hanfu, it is common for the cape and cloak to be confused. They may appear the same, but they are very different. The cloak is known as Doupeng, whereas the cape is Pifeng.
The hanfu cloak
Usually, the Doupeng will have a stand collar with no sleeves or cap. It will also have a back slit and matched with a hat. It covers the entire body keeping cold and winds out. The design of the hanfu cloak does not offer much hand movement; its main intention is to keep you warm. The cloak was originally made using hemp to keep snow and rain at bay, just like a coir raincoat. It later became unlimited to snowy and rainy days during Ming and Qing dynasties, and silk fabrics became popular. Women’s cloaks became common and sophisticated, featuring bright satin and silk, fur lining, and embroidered patterns.
The hanfu cape
The Pifeng is generally a windbreaker with long sleeves and straight necklines. It was most popular during the Ming dynasty and can be worn indoors or outdoors. It can be described as a normal dress designed to keep you warm and comfortable. Modern versions will have hoodies, colorful buttons, and other beautiful decorations.
Like other hanfu clothing, hanfu cloaks and capes are now modernized, and you will find them in various styles and designs. They are mostly woolen, but you can also find them in materials and fabrics. They can be as stunning as needed using different decorations.
Top 5 hanfu capes and cloaks you should consider adding to your winter wardrobe
1. Woolen long winter hoodie cape
This white cape with matching flower details is large enough to keep them stylish. The length is thoughtful as it stops mid-calf, which keeps staining at bay. It is long and wide enough to keep you cozy and warm in cold months. The hoodie is an added advantage and features a fur trim you can detach if you so desire. The whiteness of this cape matches winter and will work with all colored outfits. It is, without a doubt, a great addition to any wardrobe.
2. Fur collar hanfu cloak
The embroidered koi fish on the bottom and back of this cloak is striking Chinese elements anyone will adore. The same goes for the flowers on the chest, minimally but intricately done to add beauty to the already stunning cloak. The fur is short and trimmed to keep you comfortable and warm at the same time. The ribbon ties are strong enough to keep the cloak in place so that you can do a few things without any inconveniences.
3. Blue hanfu cape
The most striking elements in this full-length cloak are the soft baby blue color and the crane and deer embroidery details. The landscape the cranes are flying over is also stunning. You get so much from the simple and elegant embroidery that does not overwhelm the cape at all. It is also hooded to give you maximum coverage. This color will work great with most outfits, so don’t hesitate if you feel this is the right item to add to your closet.
4. Vintage winter cloak
This black cloak comes in a matching hanfu dress and is made lovely with red and white flower, animal, and landscape embroidery. It is cool but fierce at the same time and also hooded to keep your entire body warm. The gray and black fur trim gives it a fashionable edge; by looking at it, you can tell it is soft and skin-friendly. Being couples set, you will manage to step out in a united front people will admire.
5. Autumn hanfu cloak
The branch embroidery is so real it looks like it has been glued onto the cloak. The white color, the length, and the design all scream Christmas. However, it will work with any other outfit, the color notwithstanding. Simplicity and beauty drive the look of this hanfu cloak, and you will love owning one to maintain style even when it is chilly.
Tips for caring for your hanfu cape
- To maintain the quality of your woolen or velvet hanfu cape, consider putting it in a protective bag when machine washing.
- Hand wash in cold water and avoid immersing for too long.
- Do not use bleach, as it can harm the fabrics and materials.
- Hang your cape to dry as a way of maintaining its integrity.
- When storing, hang in a protective bag to keep harmful elements at bay and minimize the chances of unpleasant wrinkling.