In recent years, the resurgence of traditional Chinese clothing, known as Hanfu, has emerged as a notable cultural phenomenon, especially among young women in popular tourist destinations like Xi’an. This cultural revival aligns with the guidance of Xi Jinping’s cultural thoughts, signaling a new chapter in the transmission and development of China’s outstanding traditional culture.
During a visit to Xi’an’s bustling night market in April 2020, President Xi Jinping stopped by a traditional clothing store where he warmly greeted the storekeeper and asked insightful questions about the origins and authenticity of the garments on display. “The President’s questions were very professional,” reflected the store owner, You Yuanyuan, who has a deep passion for traditional clothing. “His remarks affirm the value of our outstanding traditional culture.”
Hanfu, often referred to as the “Han clothing,” represents a vital element of Chinese identity, embodying historical customs, societal norms, and aesthetic values throughout different periods. In the new era, the rise of traditional attire underscores a growing cultural confidence among the Chinese people.
President Xi’s dedication to promoting traditional culture extends beyond the domestic sphere; he has made significant appearances in traditional garments during international diplomacy. In March 2014, while in the Netherlands, he attended a grand state banquet in a stylish Chinese outfit. The following month, he donned a “Chinese aesthetic” ensemble during a visit to Belgium, receiving positive acclaim from international media as a testament to the depth of Chinese cultural heritage and growing cultural confidence.
Furthermore, during the 2014 APEC summit in Beijing, President Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, hosted a welcome dinner where leaders and representatives from various economies wore traditional Chinese attire. This celebration of traditional fashion not only showcased China’s rich cultural heritage but also emphasized the idea of unity among the member economies, illustrating the inherent connections conveyed through traditional clothing.
To date, several traditional textile techniques related to clothing, such as the craft of China’s traditional dyeing and weaving—including the Li ethnic group’s methods, Nanjing’s cloud brocade weaving, and silk production—have been inscribed on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. Renowned national-level projects like Song brocade and Suzhou silk weaving likewise reflect the nation’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its rich textile culture.
As Hanfu continues to gain popularity, it symbolizes a renaissance of China’s cultural identity. Styles like the Ma Mian skirt, capes, and cheongsams are increasingly featured on major fashion stages like the China International Fashion Week, drawing attention from younger generations who embrace the “New Traditionalist” aesthetic.
As one expert put it, “Cultural soft power is the essence of a nation’s overall strength and encapsulates the spirit of its people.” The beauty of traditional attire resonates not only with the core values of Chinese civilization but also fosters a renewed cultural confidence among the younger generation, linking the past with the future.
