Hanfu Silhouette Guide

A parameterised guide to six common hanfu forms — curved-hem robe, straight-hem robe, ruqun, chest-high skirt, round-collar robe and beizi — with self-drawn vector figures you can recolour and download

Quick comparison

FormPeriodCollarMain body

What these drawings are

These figures are original, stylised vector illustrations made in the browser. They are meant to help you recognise silhouette features — where the collar crosses, where the sash sits, how the skirt or robe falls — not to serve as historical reconstruction, photography or a sewing pattern. Colours, trim and pattern density are suggestions; change them freely. For cutting and sewing, use a proper pattern drafted from verified references.

A note on scope

This page describes clothing structure and history. It makes no claims about ethnicity, identity, status or luck, and it does not set rules about who may wear which form.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between right lapel and left lapel?

In a cross-collar garment the wearer’s right panel normally crosses over the left, so the visible overlap runs to the wearer’s right. The reversed left-over-right closure is associated with other contexts and is generally avoided in hanfu.

Can I use these images as sewing patterns?

No. They are simplified flat illustrations without measurements, seam allowances or grain lines. Use them for orientation, then work from a properly drafted pattern.

Why are the colours so plain?

The base drawings use flat blocks of colour so that the silhouette reads clearly. Trim, sash and subtle pattern toggles let you test combinations quickly; the SVG can be recoloured further in any vector editor.

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