A beizi (褙子) is a long, straight, open-front jacket worn over a top and skirt. It is the defining garment of Song dynasty dress: narrow, soft and unfitted, with a straight hem and often a contrasting border down the front.
How it differs from other outer layers
| Garment | Shape | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Beizi | Long, straight, open front, narrow sleeves | Song |
| Bijia | Sleeveless overcoat, often shorter | Ming |
| Pifeng | Long coat with sleeves and a folded collar | Ming |
| Cape | Sleeveless draped layer | Various |
The beizi is the lightest of these — the line is straight from shoulder to hem, without shaping at the waist.
How it is worn
- Open, never closed. The beizi hangs open, showing the top and skirt underneath.
- Over a ruqun. The classic Song combination: top, skirt, then beizi over both.
- With a sash. The sash goes under the beizi, so the beizi drapes over it.
Why it is the most wearable hanfu layer
- It does not restrict movement — no closure, no fitted seams.
- It works over modern clothes — a beizi over a t-shirt and jeans reads as a long cardigan.
- It is light — suitable for summer and spring.
- It photographs well — the straight line makes the body look taller.
How to style it today
- Modern: a beizi over a plain top and wide trousers, flat shoes.
- Song look: a pale beizi over a tonal ruqun, minimal accessories.
- Layered: a beizi over a dress in winter, with a coat over that outdoors.
See the Song dynasty guide for the full context.
Sizing a beizi
Beizi are loose by design, so the deciding measurements are total length and sleeve length, not the chest. Choose a length that ends at mid-calf or the ankle for the traditional look.
Frequently asked questions
What is a beizi in hanfu?
A long, straight, open-front jacket worn over a top and skirt — the characteristic Song dynasty garment.
Is a beizi the same as a kimono?
No. A beizi is open-front and straight-cut with no belt; a kimono is a wrapped robe closed with an obi. See types of hanfu for the neighbour traditions.
Can men wear a beizi?
Yes — beizi-style jackets were worn by men in the Song period, and modern unisex versions exist.
Read next: Song dynasty hanfu · capes and cloaks · types of hanfu