the chronological ranges and characteristics of clothing art in important periods of European&China civilization

The following briefly introduces the time ranges and clothing art features of important periods in European civilization:

1. The Ancient Greek period (8th century BC – 146 BC): Clothing mostly adopted styles that were uncut and naturally draped. Made mainly of linen and wool, it often took on a rectangular shape and was fixed with pins or belts, showcasing a simple, smooth, natural, and elegant appearance that highlighted the beauty of the human body lines.
2. The Ancient Roman period (509 BC – 476 AD): Clothing mainly featured wide robes, such as the toga. With a rich variety of colors that were clearly demarcated by social status, it emphasized the texture and draping of the fabric, and the decoration was relatively ornate, demonstrating the majesty and luxury of the empire.
3. The Middle Ages (5th century – 15th century): In the early stage, influenced by religion, the style of clothing was conservative and solemn, mainly consisting of long robes. In the later stage, decorations were gradually added to the collars, cuffs, and other parts. Colors symbolized social status, and the overall style presented a mysterious, solemn appearance with some ornate decorations.
4. The Renaissance period (14th century – early 17th century): Clothing emphasized the curves of the human body. Men’s clothing included a tight-fitting doublet paired with long hose, while women’s clothing featured a corset and a voluminous hoop skirt. The fabrics were luxurious, the colors were vivid, and the decorations were elaborate, reflecting the pursuit of the beauty of human nature under the spirit of humanism.
5. The Baroque period (17th century – early 18th century): Clothing had an exaggerated shape, full of dynamic. Men’s clothing made extensive use of ribbons, lace, and other decorations, and women’s clothing had wide skirts with the prevalence of hoop skirts. The colors were intense, and there was a pursuit of luxury and dramatic effects.
6. The Rococo period (early 18th century – late 18th century): The style of clothing was delicate and graceful. Main decorations included fine pleats, lace, and bows. The colors were light and soft, the fabrics were light and thin, and the overall shape presented a delicate, romantic, and highly feminized characteristic.
7. The Neoclassical period (late 18th century – early 19th century): Clothing returned to the simplicity of the Ancient Greek and Roman styles, emphasizing the natural lines of the body. Women’s clothing mostly had a high-waisted design, with a loose skirt. The fabrics were light, and white was the main color, showing a simple and elegant temperament.
8. The Romantic period (early 19th century – mid-19th century): Clothing styles emphasized exaggerated shoulders, a slender waist, and a voluminous skirt. A large amount of lace, frills, and other decorations were used, and the colors were rich and vivid, full of imagination and emotional expression.
9. The Realism period (mid-19th century – late 19th century): Clothing gradually became more practical and accessible to the common people. The styles were simple, and functionality was emphasized. Everyday wear mainly consisted of plain dresses and suits, with relatively subdued colors.
10. The Art Nouveau period (late 19th century – early 20th century): Clothing drew inspiration from natural forms. The lines were smooth and dynamic, and patterns such as curves and vines were often used for decoration. It emphasized the harmony between clothing and the human body, presenting a natural and agile aesthetic.

China civilization:

1. Pre-Qin period (Ancient times – 221 BC): Garments evolved from primitive animal skins and leaves to mainly Shenyi and robes. The upper and lower garments were either connected or separate, with emerging color and pattern distinctions indicating the rudiments of the etiquette system.
2. Qin and Han dynasties (221 BC – 220 AD): Men mostly wore robes with wide sleeves, and women mainly wore Shenyi and Ruqun. The overall style was dignified and simple, with relatively plain colors, and the clothing system was gradually standardized to show feudal hierarchy.
3. Wei, Jin, and Southern and Northern Dynasties (220 – 589 AD): Influenced by ethnic integration, diverse clothing styles emerged. Loose and flowing clothes became fashionable. Men bared their chests and arms, and women’s clothes were elegant and unrestrained, presenting a natural and free style.
4. Sui and Tang dynasties (581 – 907 AD): Garments were gorgeous and open. Men often wore round-collar robes, and women were fond of Ruqun. The revealing chest attire appeared. With bright and rich colors and exquisite patterns, they absorbed many foreign elements, showing the confidence and inclusiveness of the prosperous Tang Dynasty.
5. Song Dynasty (960 – 1279 AD): Clothing tended to be simple and plain. Men mainly wore Lanshan, and women’s Ruqun was slender and suitable. The colors were light, and the decorations were delicate, presenting an elegant and reserved style, reflecting the aesthetic concepts under the influence of Neo-Confucianism.
6. Yuan Dynasty (1271 – 1368 AD): Clothing combined the characteristics of the Mongolian ethnic group and the traditional styles of the Central Plains. Men mostly wore Zhisun clothes, and women mainly wore long robes. With rich fabrics and vivid colors, it retained certain characteristics of nomadic clothing.
7. Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644 AD): The traditional Han clothing system was restored. Men had various types of headwear, and women mainly wore Aoqun. The clothing was dignified in shape, with elaborate and exquisite decorations and bright colors, showing the revival and prosperity of Han culture.
8. Qing Dynasty (1644 – 1911 AD): Men shaved their heads and wore queues, and wore long robes and Magua. The Qipao was a typical dress for women. Later, Han women still wore Aoqun. The clothing emphasized decoration, with delicate techniques such as buttons and piping, showing distinct Manchu cultural characteristics.
9. Republic of China period (1912 – 1949 AD): Clothing combined Chinese and Western styles. Zhongshan suits and Western suits were popular among men, and the cheongsam for women was improved to show the curves of women, reflecting the integration of the old and new and fashion changes under social changes.
10. Modern period (1949 – present): The style of clothing has been constantly changing with the development of the times. From simple and practical in the early days to gradually becoming diversified after the reform and opening up, it has integrated international fashion elements, both functional and personalized, showing the characteristics of an open and inclusive era.