Whenever people mention the aesthetic standards of the Tang Dynasty, nine out of ten will say, 'Of course, plumpness was considered beautiful!' Many plus - sized girls have been teased with comments like, 'If you went back to the Tang Dynasty, you'd definitely be a beauty.' But was Tang Dynasty aesthetics really that rigid? Let's get straight to the point. Don't misunderstand—preferences for body types in a certain era don't represent the whole picture. Ancient people weren’t as strict about beauty standards as one might think.
The Tang Dynasty's aesthetics evolved over time, reflecting its inclusive nature, which was the true essence of its golden age. With cultural confidence, women didn’t suffer from appearance anxiety! From the slender figures of the early Tang to the fuller beauty of the High Tang, it was all part of women’s self - awareness and expression. While body ideals shifted, the underlying principle was health and vitality—a remarkably balanced perspective.
Let’s take a quick look at the evolution of Tang Dynasty aesthetics.
Early Tang
The early Tang inherited the Sui Dynasty’s preference for tall, slender figures. Women wore layered skirts, and their makeup was understated, characterized by thin eyebrows, pale faces, and red lips. Huadian (花钿) designs were relatively simple, often featuring dots, teardrops, or crescent shapes, continuing the styles of the Northern and Southern Dynasties and the Sui.
Wu Zetian's Reign
During Wu Zetian’s reign, women were no longer confined to tall, restrictive silhouettes. Instead, they embraced their femininity with low - cut, high - waisted dresses and playful makeup. Wide, flowing scarves revealed glimpses of skin, and Huadian designs became bold and intricate, showcasing women’s confidence.
High Tang
By the High Tang, fuller figures became fashionable—the iconic Tang beauties we often see in ancient paintings. Their clothing was voluminous and ornate, with high buns adorned with hairpins. Makeup grew more elaborate, including the famous 'Xiehong' (斜红), two strokes of vermilion at the outer corners of the eyes. Huadian designs became more refined, often combining colors and gemstones.
Late Tang
The late Tang embraced grandeur, with large sleeves and elaborate hair accessories. Huadian and Mianye (面靥) decorations covered the face, a trend that continued into the Five Dynasties period. Designs expanded beyond florals and geometric shapes to include birds, fish, and insects, even extending to the cheeks—clearly a 'more is more' approach.
Throughout these periods, foreign influences also shaped fashion, with lapels and narrow sleeves inspired by Central Asian styles. Women’s hairstyles grew increasingly intricate. This diversity in aesthetics reflected the Tang’s inclusivity, opulence, and dynamism. The Tang Dynasty celebrated every woman’s unique beauty—it wasn’t about conforming to a single standard. Confidence came from embracing individuality, not others’ opinions.
So, the next time someone claims Tang women were all plump or jokes about your weight, just share this article with them. And remember, in the spirit of the inclusive Tang Dynasty, every woman has her own unique charm, regardless of body size or appearance. Let's take a cue from the Tang women and be proud of who we are!
