While Hanfu (汉服, the traditional costume worn by Han Chinese people) is well-loved for its beautiful design, it can be overdone and difficult to wear in everyday life as well. To address these concerns, Hanfu designers combine traditional elements with modern simplicity. This reinterpretation is consistent with New Chinese (新中式). Shen Zhongxi) Fashion trend, which adapts the essence of Chinese culture to suit contemporary lifestyles and aesthetics.
The growing interest in Hanfu and new Chinese fashions is driven by many factors, including a return to history and heritage amid rapid modernization, a desire to reconnect with cultural roots after years of embracing Western trends, and a longing for a renewed sense of identity. There are criticisms too, such as doubts about its enduring appeal as a fashion trend and concerns about Han ethnicity. However, Hanfu and Chinese new clothing have become important consumer markets, reaching CNY144.7 billion and CNY1 billion respectively in 2023.
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