What do Chinese couples wear on their wedding day?

Chinese couples typically wear traditional attire called "qipao" or "cheongsam" on their wedding day. The qipao is a form-fitting, high-collared dress for women, usually made of silk or satin, and adorned with intricate embroidery or patterns. It is often in vibrant colors like red, symbolizing luck and happiness. The groom usually wears a traditional Chinese suit called "tangzhuang" or a Western-style suit. In recent years, some couples also opt for a combination of traditional and modern attire, with the bride changing into a white wedding gown for the reception.

1、 Traditional Chinese wedding attire: Qipao and Tangzhuang

Traditional Chinese wedding attire for couples includes the Qipao and Tangzhuang. The Qipao, also known as the Cheongsam, is a form-fitting dress that originated in the 1920s and became popular during the 1930s. It is typically made of silk and features intricate embroidery and patterns. The Qipao is known for its high collar, fitted waist, and side slits, which symbolize the balance between modesty and sensuality.

For the groom, the traditional attire is the Tangzhuang, which is a two-piece suit consisting of a long jacket and matching pants. The Tangzhuang is often made of silk or brocade and is adorned with intricate designs and patterns. It is typically worn with a Mandarin collar shirt and a silk tie.

In recent years, there has been a shift towards more modern and Westernized wedding attire in China. Many couples now choose to incorporate elements of both traditional and contemporary styles. Some brides opt for a white wedding gown for the ceremony and change into a Qipao for the reception. Similarly, grooms may choose to wear a Western-style suit for the ceremony and change into a Tangzhuang for the reception.

Overall, while traditional Chinese wedding attire still holds significance and is widely embraced, there is also a growing trend towards incorporating modern elements into the wedding day attire. This allows couples to express their individuality and blend cultural traditions with contemporary fashion.

2、 Modern Chinese wedding attire: Western-style wedding gowns and suits

Modern Chinese couples often opt for a fusion of traditional and Western-style wedding attire on their special day. While traditional Chinese wedding attire, known as the qipao or cheongsam for the bride and the changshan for the groom, was once the norm, it has gradually been replaced by Western-style wedding gowns and suits.

The bride typically wears a white wedding gown, similar to those worn in Western cultures, symbolizing purity and innocence. However, some brides may choose to incorporate elements of traditional Chinese attire into their gown, such as using red fabric or adding intricate embroidery. Additionally, some brides may choose to wear a qipao or cheongsam during the tea ceremony or reception.

The groom usually wears a Western-style suit, often in black or gray, paired with a white shirt and tie. However, some grooms may also choose to wear a traditional Chinese changshan or incorporate Chinese elements into their suit, such as using red fabric for the lining or adding Chinese-inspired embroidery.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of couples opting for more personalized and unique wedding attire. Some couples may choose to wear outfits that reflect their cultural heritage or personal style, such as incorporating elements of traditional Chinese attire into their Western-style wedding gown or suit. This fusion of traditional and modern elements allows couples to express their individuality while still honoring their cultural roots.

Overall, modern Chinese wedding attire is a blend of Western and traditional Chinese styles, with couples embracing the freedom to choose outfits that best represent their personal taste and cultural heritage.

3、 Symbolic colors in Chinese wedding attire: Red and gold

Chinese couples traditionally wear a variety of attire on their wedding day, with the most common being the traditional qipao for the bride and a changshan or a Western-style suit for the groom. However, the choice of wedding attire has evolved over time, and modern Chinese couples now have a wider range of options to choose from.

One of the most significant aspects of Chinese wedding attire is the use of symbolic colors. Red, which symbolizes luck and happiness, is the predominant color in Chinese weddings. The bride often wears a red qipao or a red embroidered gown, while the groom may wear a red sash or a red tie. Gold is another important color, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. It is often incorporated into the wedding attire through gold embroidery or accessories.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of Chinese couples incorporating elements of Western wedding attire into their big day. Many brides now choose to wear a white wedding gown for the ceremony, often changing into a traditional qipao for the reception. This fusion of Western and Chinese styles reflects the modernization of Chinese society and the influence of global wedding trends.

Additionally, some couples opt for more personalized and unique wedding attire. They may choose to wear outfits that reflect their cultural heritage or personal style. For example, couples may incorporate elements of their regional traditional attire or choose outfits that showcase their individual personalities.

Overall, while traditional Chinese wedding attire still holds great significance, modern Chinese couples have the freedom to choose attire that reflects their personal preferences and cultural backgrounds. The incorporation of Western styles and the desire for individuality have added a new dimension to Chinese wedding fashion.

4、 Traditional Chinese wedding accessories: Phoenix crown and dragon robe

Traditional Chinese wedding accessories include the iconic Phoenix crown and dragon robe. These accessories hold deep cultural significance and are worn by Chinese couples on their wedding day to symbolize prosperity, happiness, and good fortune.

The Phoenix crown, also known as the Fengguan, is a traditional headdress adorned with intricate designs and phoenix motifs. It represents the bride's noble status and beauty. The crown is usually made of gold or silver and is embellished with pearls, gemstones, and intricate embroidery. It is worn with a red veil, which symbolizes luck and happiness.

The dragon robe, or Longpao, is a traditional garment worn by the groom. It is typically made of silk and features dragon motifs, symbolizing power, strength, and masculinity. The robe is often embroidered with auspicious symbols and patterns, such as clouds and waves, to bring good luck and fortune to the couple.

In recent years, there has been a shift towards more modern and Western-style wedding attire in China. Many couples now opt for a combination of traditional and contemporary elements. While some still choose to wear the Phoenix crown and dragon robe, others may incorporate elements of Western wedding fashion, such as white wedding gowns for the bride and tuxedos for the groom.

Ultimately, the choice of wedding attire in China is a personal one, and couples have the freedom to express their individual style and preferences. However, traditional Chinese wedding accessories like the Phoenix crown and dragon robe continue to hold a special place in Chinese wedding ceremonies, representing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the country.