A Study on the Phenomenon of Women Dressing as Men in the Tang Dynasty from the Perspective of Clothing Social Psychology

Xiangyang Bian and Menghe Tian

Asian Social Science, 2025, vol. 21, issue 2, 1

Abstract: This study delves into the phenomenon of Tang Dynasty women dressing as men, based on theory social psychology of clothing. First appeared in the Early and High Tang among the ruling class and then spread widely, it styles included imitating male or “Hufu” attire, with key elements like futou, round-collar robes, etc. Culturally, the Tang's open policies, marginalization of Confucianism, and foreign culture integration enabled this. While symbolizing openness, it was condemned as a “bizarre omen” by conservatives. Tang women had more rights in education, marriage, and social life, and their rising self-awareness spurred the popularity of dressing as men to enter male-dominated spaces. This phenomenon, influenced by both cultural environment and women's self-awareness, improved women's status remarkably in feudal China, despite facing criticism.

Date: 2025
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