How to Choose a Suitable Song Dynasty Beizi for Yourself
In the vast system of Hanfu spanning thousands of years, Song Dynasty clothing stands out with its unique "elegant, understated, and refined" aesthetic. Among its many styles, the beizi—a daily outer garment for women—has endured through the centuries, maintaining its popularity due to its clean lines and versatile nature. Today, it remains a must-have in modern Hanfu enthusiasts' wardrobes. What makes this seemingly simple garment so captivating? Let's explore the essentials of the Hanfu beizi together.
I. What is a Beizi?
The beizi has distinct structural features: a straight collar, front opening, side slits, and typically no ties, with lengths ranging from hip-length to ankle-length. Its most notable characteristic is its ability to be worn open, sometimes secured with just one or two delicate pearl buttons. This design preserves the graceful flow of Hanfu while enhancing practicality. In essence, the beizi is the Song Dynasty version of a "long cardigan," perfectly bridging traditional and contemporary aesthetics.
II. How to Choose the Right Beizi for You?
a. Fabric Selection
For spring and summer, lightweight fabrics like silk and chiffon in soft pastel shades (e.g., pale pink, sky blue) are ideal. In autumn and winter, opt for heavier materials such as wool or velvet in deeper tones (e.g., burgundy, forest green) to complement the season. Important note: Avoid cheap, overly shiny synthetic fabrics, as they detract from the understated beauty of Song-style Hanfu.
▲Click the picture to buy Hanfu at 15% off
▲Click the picture to buy Hanfu at 15% off
b. Color and Pattern Pairing
Solid colors are the easiest to style, with the recent trend toward muted, low-saturation Morandi tones being particularly suitable for daily wear and in line with Song Dynasty elegance. For a more classical look, consider traditional motifs like floral sprigs (zhezhi hua) or lotus vines (chanzhi lian), but ensure the patterns are small and spaced out—they should serve as subtle accents rather than overwhelming the garment.
▲This picture shows the folded branch flower （zhezhi hua）pattern commonly seen in Hanfu
▲This picture shows the intertwined flower and lotus （chanzhi lian）pattern commonly seen in Hanfu
c. Length Considerations
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Short (hip-length): Best for everyday wear and commuting.
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Mid-length (knee-length): Most representative of the Song beizi's charm.
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Long (ankle-length): Ideal for formal occasions or photoshoots, exuding an elegant presence.
For beginners, mid-length is the most versatile starting point.
III. The dressing types of Beizi
a. Traditional Styling
The most classic combination is a moxiong (wrap-top undergarment) paired with Songku (wide-leg pants). The flowing silhouette of the Songku complements the beizi's graceful drape, creating a distinctly Song-era aesthetic. For a softer look, pair it with pleated skirts.
▲Classic Song Dynasty Beizi is matched with a chest wrap （moxiong）and Song-style trousers（Songku）
b. Modern Fusion
Want to wear it daily? A plain T-shirt and jeans layered under a beizi effortlessly create a literary, refined vibe. Alternatively, try it over a knit dress for warmth and a touch of classical charm—a unique way to express personal style.
▲The fashion and nobility of modern long dresses and mid-length Beizi
c. Seasonal Styling
In spring and summer, wear the beizi as a lightweight cover-up. In colder months, layer it over sweaters. Remember the Hanfu principle of "loose outside, fitted inside"—slimmer inner layers allow the outer beizi to flow beautifully.
d. Accessorizing
Don’t overlook accessories! Pearls were a Song-era favorite; a simple pearl necklace elevates the ensemble. A slim waist belt defines the silhouette while adding dimension. For footwear, embroidered Hanfu shoes or understated loafers work well.
Final Thoughts
The beizi's enduring appeal lies in its timeless adaptability. Whether recreating historical styles or blending with modern fashion, this thousand year old design remains effortlessly relevant. When choosing a beizi, focus less on rigid conventions and more on what suits your personal style and lifestyle.
So go ahead—find your perfect beizi and incorporate it into your Hanfu wardrobe. May it help you rediscover, amid today’s fast-paced world, the grace and poise of ancient times.If you need other styles and types of Hanfu, welcome to our Hanfu store.
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