What are those Chinese jackets called?

The term “Chinese jackets” covers a wide range of styles, from traditional and historical garments to modern fashion pieces. Here’s a guide to the most common and iconic Chinese jackets and their names:

Traditional & Historical Jackets

1. Tangzhuang (唐装) – The “Modern” Traditional Jacket

   • What it is: This is the jacket most Westerners think of as a “Chinese jacket.” It’s characterized by a mandarin collar (stand-up collar) and frog buttons (knotted cloth closures).

   • Context: Despite its name (which references the Tang Dynasty), the Tangzhuang is a modern reinterpretation. It became globally famous after APEC leaders wore them in 2001.

   • When it’s worn: Today, it’s common for formal occasions, weddings, festivals like Chinese New Year, and as stylish uniform for hospitality staff.

     

2. Changshan (长衫) / Magua (马褂) – The “Traditional” Men’s Ensemble

   • Changshan: A long, robe-like garment for men, also with a mandarin collar.

   • Magua: The jacket worn over the Changshan. It is typically a shorter, sleeved jacket that is often embroidered.

   • Context: This was the standard formal wear for men during the Qing Dynasty. The full ensemble is what is often called a “Mandarin suit.”

3. Hanfu (汉服) – Jackets from the Han Ethnic Tradition

   • This refers to the historical clothing of the Han Chinese people, predating the Qing Dynasty. There are several jacket styles within Hanfu:

     • Ru (襦): A short, open jacket.

     • Ao (袄): A longer, padded or lined jacket, often with wide sleeves.

   • Context: Hanfu has seen a major revival in recent years as a form of cultural pride and is often worn by young people for photoshoots or festivals.

4. Qipao / Cheongsam (旗袍) – The Iconic Dress (and its accompanying jacket)

   • While the Qipao itself is a dress, it is very often worn with a matching or contrasting short jacket or overcoat, especially for formal events or in cooler weather.

Modern & Workwear Jackets

5. Mao Suit (中山装 – Zhongshan Suit)

   • What it is: A utilitarian, high-collared jacket with four front flap pockets and five central buttons. It has no lapels.

   • Context: Named after Sun Yat-sen (Sun Zhongshan), it was the standard male attire in China during the Mao era. It is now rarely worn in daily life but carries strong historical and political significance.

6. Work Jackets & Uniforms

   • While not having a specific traditional name, China is the world’s largest manufacturer of all kinds of work jackets, including:

     • 保安服 (Bǎo’ān fú): Security guard uniforms, which often look like a Mao suit or a formal blazer.

     • 工装 (Gōngzhuāng): General workwear, including durable jackets for construction or factory work.

A Quick Guide to Identify Them

If you see a specific style you’d like to identify, feel free to describe it or share a picture, and I can give you a more precise answer