Colour in Chinese dress was never neutral. It signalled status, occasion and dynasty, and in some periods the rules were enforced by law. Here is what the main colours mean.
Red (红)
Luck, joy, celebration and protection. Red is the colour of Lunar New Year, weddings and festivals. Traditional Chinese bridal dress is red, not white.
See our red hanfu guide.
White (白)
Two meanings that coexist. Traditionally the colour of mourning — which is why all-white outfits are avoided at weddings and New Year. But also the colour of immortals, clouds and moonlight, which is why white hanfu is the most photogenic style today.
See our white hanfu guide.
Black (黑)
Formality and solemnity. Black was the imperial colour of the Qin dynasty, and black robes were worn at court. Later it became associated with mourning alongside white, but it remained the most formal neutral.
See our black hanfu guide.
Yellow (黄)
Reserved for the emperor in later dynasties — commoners were barred from wearing bright imperial yellow. In hanfu today, yellow appears in lighter, non-imperial shades.
Blue and green (青)
Associated with scholars, students and rank in various periods. Deep blue and muted green are common in Ming and Song dress.
Colour by dynasty
| Period | Palette | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Han | Deep, dark tones | Black, red, dark green |
| Tang | Bright and saturated | Reds, greens, golds, strong contrast |
| Song | Muted and soft | Pale greens, greys, blues, whites |
| Ming | Deep and restrained | Blue, wine, black, white |
Colour rules by occasion
- Lunar New Year: red, or a dark colour with a red accent.
- Wedding (Chinese style): red for the bride, deep red or dark for guests.
- Wedding (Western style): avoid all white if you are a guest.
- Funeral: white and black. Never red.
- Photoshoot: anything — but white and pale tones photograph most easily.
Frequently asked questions
What does red mean in hanfu?
Luck, joy and celebration. Red hanfu is worn for New Year, weddings and festivals.
Why is white worn for mourning in China?
White is the traditional Chinese mourning colour, associated with death and funerals. It is why all-white outfits are avoided at celebrations.
What colour was reserved for the emperor?
Bright yellow, especially in the Ming and Qing periods. Commoners were barred from wearing it.
What colour hanfu should a beginner buy?
Black or a deep blue — the most versatile and least costume-like. Red is the most festive.
Read next: red hanfu · black hanfu · white hanfu