Among the numerous garments of Hanfu, the most popular one is probably the Mamian skirt. As a clothing item full of ethnic style, the skirt is characterized by vibrant colors and unique patterns. Wearing it seems like traveling through time and experiencing the charm of traditional culture.
In fact, the Mamian skirt is not a completely new design, its history can be traced back to a hundred years ago. Also known as Mamian pleated skirt, it was one of the main skirt styles for ancient Chinese women.
It consists of four skirt doors, both front and back, overlapping in pairs. The outer skirt door is adorned with decorations, while the inner skirt door has fewer or no decorations. The Ma Mian Qun is pleated on the side, and the skirt waist is often made of white fabric, symbolizing a lifelong union. It is fastened with a rope or button.
The design of the Mamian skirt highlights symmetry and streamlined shapes, emphasizing the curves of women and creating an elegant and dignified image for the wearer.
The charm of the Mamian skirt has actually transcended national borders. At the banquet where Princess Diana was announced as the future royal bride in the United Kingdom, she also wore a Mamian skirt. This moment became a classic moment in fashion history, like a glimpse of a beautiful swan.
At that time, she wore a white silk shirt with lace trim on the upper body, and a red embroidered Mamian skirt tied around the lower body. It is said to be a Qing Dynasty Mamian skirt that had been in the princess's family collection for 100 years, showcasing her unique style and fashion taste. This moment also became an important milestone for the Mamian skirt in the fashion world. Therefore, the Mamian skirt is suitable for various occasions and looks great for daily wear as well.
To highlight the charm of the Mamian skirt, pay attention to the following points:
▍ A well-fitted waist is crucial
When choosing a Mamian skirt, measure your waist circumference first to avoid any ill-fitting issues after wearing it. The waist circumference of the Ma Mian Qun needs to be coordinated in order for the skirt doors to close properly.
▍ Choose the Mamian skirt according to your height
The design of the Mamian skirt's length is particularly important. For example, a skirt length of around 99cm is suitable for a woman with a height of 161cm. This length not only covers the feet but also avoids the skirt hem touching the ground.
The overall outfit will exude a complete atmosphere, and the image of a woman will be elevated. Combined with a graceful figure, it instantly becomes an eye-catching scenery.
▍ Use the loose skirt hem to enhance your body shape
At first glance, the loose design of the Mamian skirt's skirt hem may seem ordinary. However, it not only covers thick legs and creates a slimming effect but also visually enhances the body shape.
Fashionable outfits with the Mamian skirt
1 Paired with a white shirt
Inspired by bronze artifacts, this Mamian skirt incorporates intricate patterns on the skirt, creating a stylish and sharp look. Pairing it with a white Pan collar shirt can optimize the waist-to-hip ratio, particularly flattering for pear-shaped figures. It not only conceals any imperfections but also creates a slimming effect, instantly exuding an elegant and sophisticated oriental charm.
2 Styled with a white T-shirt
Taking inspiration from the Song Dynasty's coiled branch peony-patterned jade comb, this Mamian skirt embodies a gentle and serene aesthetic with its colors and hollowed-out design. The fabric used is a soft and smooth brocade material, showcasing a lustrous and textured appearance. Pairing the Mamian skirt with a simple white T-shirt not only creates an eye-catching outfit but also achieves a playful yet elegant everyday look.
3 Combined with a high-collar top
This Mamian skirt draws inspiration from China's intangible cultural heritage: mother-of-pearl lacquer. As an artistic treasure from history, with exquisite shell carvings in various patterns, making it a highly sought-after craft by ancient nobility.
Inspired by the mysterious black color of lacquerware and the iridescent luster of luodian, this dress comes to life. Choosing a high-collar padded top creates a poised and refined appearance. The buttons add a touch of classical charm, while the black Mamian skirt with silver-white floral patterns seamlessly blends into everyday wear, exuding an intellectual and artistic aura, showcasing a subtle yet distinct new Chinese style.
4 Paired with Chinese-style shirt
This ensemble of the Mamian skirt and a white shirt may seem simple, but it represents the collision and fusion of history and modernity.
The comfortable and stylish modern Chinese-style shirt, combined with the black Mamian skirt, creates a captivating story-like imagery when walking under red walls, with a few strands of sunlight gently illuminating the hair.
Since I am above 175cm tall but have a really slim body it's almost impossible for me to find a well fitting Mamian... TwT (if not sewed by me but there's no time for that at the moment) Do I ignore my waist measurements and chose from the hight ones or the other way around?!