Song Dynasty Hanfu — Complete Guide 2026

Ru 褲

The Top

Crossed-Collar Top — The Foundation

The Ru is the top of the Ruqun. It has a crossed collar (jiaoling youren — right over left), narrow to medium sleeves, and an inner sash to hold the collar in place. The Ru is worn tucked into the Qun (skirt) or over it, depending on the style. Song dynasty Ru tops are typically in soft, muted colors with delicate embroidery at the collar and cuffs.

Qun 裙

The Skirt

Wrap Skirt — Adjustable and Elegant

The Qun is the wrap skirt of the Ruqun. It wraps around the body and ties at the side or front. The skirt sits at the natural waist in Song dynasty style. The wrap construction makes it adjustable — the sash can be tightened or loosened for comfort. Song dynasty Qun skirts are typically in a contrasting or complementary color to the Ru top, with subtle embroidery or woven patterns.

Pei 配

The Sash

The Defining Accessory — Tied at Natural Waist

The sash (pei) is the long fabric tie that defines the Song dynasty silhouette. It wraps around the natural waist and ties in a bow or knot at the front. The sash should be snug but comfortable — two fingers should fit between the sash and the body. The sash color is often a contrasting accent — a deep color against a soft background, or a soft color against a deeper background.

Xiu 袖

The Sleeves

Narrow to Medium — Practical and Elegant

Song dynasty sleeves are narrow to medium width — much narrower than Tang dynasty da xiu sleeves. This makes Song dynasty Hanfu more practical for everyday wear and easier for beginners to manage. Some Song dynasty styles have slightly flared sleeves that create gentle movement without the dramatic width of Tang dynasty sleeves.

Sage Green

The most characteristic Song dynasty color. Sage green (qing lv) is associated with nature, refinement, and intellectual culture. Beautiful for garden parties, outdoor photoshoots, and Ren Faires. Complements all skin tones.

Dusty Rose

Romantic and feminine. Dusty rose (fen hong) is the most popular Song dynasty color for weddings, garden parties, and photoshoots. Soft and beautiful without competing with the bride at weddings.

Ivory

Pure and elegant. Ivory (xiang ya bai) is the most versatile Song dynasty color. Beautiful for photoshoots, garden parties, and everyday wear. Note: avoid pure white at weddings — ivory is acceptable as it is clearly not white.

Pale Blue

Serene and refined. Pale blue (dan lan) is associated with sky, water, and serenity in Chinese culture. Beautiful for outdoor photoshoots and garden settings. The xianxia immortal color.

Soft Lavender

Delicate and beautiful. Soft lavender (dan zi) is the most romantic Song dynasty color. Beautiful for photoshoots, garden parties, and moon goddess-inspired looks.

Best First

$189

Song Dynasty Hanfu — The Most Beginner-Friendly Ruqun

Authentic Song dynasty Ruqun. Lightweight chiffon, natural waist, adjustable sash. The most popular Hanfu at Olive Girl. XS–3XL. 30-day returns.

Embroidered

$236

Song Dynasty Embroidered Hanfu — Elegant Embroidery, Song Silhouette

Real embroidery on Song dynasty Ruqun silhouette. Deep purple. Sophisticated and beautiful. XS–3XL.

Tang

$169

Tang Dynasty Wide Sleeve Hanfu — Want More Drama?

Wide da xiu sleeves, high waist, crimson. The most dramatic Hanfu alternative. XS–3XL.

Premium

$249

Heavy Embroidered Hanfu — The Premium Upgrade

Dense real embroidery. Museum-quality craftsmanship. The next step after your first Song dynasty Ruqun. XS–3XL.