Bianfu
In its own language: 弁服 (biànfú)
A red ceremonial outfit worn by Chinese emperors during the Zhou dynasty for official court duties.
The bianfu is a historical set of ceremonial attire from China. It was worn by emperors in the Zhou dynasty for official business and meetings with court officials. The outfit consists of a red upper garment, a skirt or trousers, and a distinctive cylinder-shaped headwear.
When is Bianfu kept?
Bianfu is kept during official business and court meetings in the Zhou dynasty.
The bianfu represents a formal style of dress used by Chinese rulers in ancient times. This specific ensemble was reserved for high-ranking ceremonies and daily administrative work. Emperors wore it to show their status when receiving officials or conducting state affairs.
What the outfit includes
The main piece is a knee-length red upper garment called jiangshapao. This is worn over a long red skirt known as hongchang, which reaches the ankles. Alternatively, the wearer might use a pair of trousers. Underneath these outer layers, an inner garment called zhongdan is placed. A decorative red panel called bixi sits on top of the skirt. The look is finished with a cylinder-shaped hat called pibian.
How it is accessorized
Holding a jade tablet called yugui is a key part of the appearance. The wearer also carries jade pendants known as yupei. A ribbon-like accessory called daxiaoshou hangs from the belt. The belt itself is referred to as dadai. These items add detail and significance to the formal red clothing. Together, they create a complete and dignified appearance for court settings.
Historical context and rank
This attire belongs to the tradition of Hanfu clothing. In the Zhou dynasty, the bianfu held a high position. It was ranked only second after another formal outfit called mianfu. Emperors chose this dress for working on official matters. It was also the standard choice when meeting with court officials. The red color and specific accessories marked the wearer's royal authority.
When and where
China
Questions people ask about Bianfu
When is Bianfu kept?
Bianfu is kept during official business and court meetings in the Zhou dynasty.
What is the bianfu?
It is a historical set of ceremonial attire from China. The outfit features a red upper garment and skirt. It was designed for formal occasions and official duties.
Who wore the bianfu?
Emperors wore this dress during the Zhou dynasty. They used it for official business and when meeting with court officials. It signified their high status in the imperial court.
What does the outfit consist of?
It includes a red knee-length jacket, a long red skirt, and a cylinder-shaped hat. Accessories like a jade tablet and specific belts complete the formal look for court appearances.
See also
DiyiA formal ceremonial robe worn by empresses and royal women in China, Korea, and Vietnam.
DahuA cross-collar jacket worn in the Ming dynasty, blending Chinese and Mongol styles.
MianfuThe most formal dress of China's emperors, worn at coronations and court rites
Chinese clothingRobes, gowns, and suits shaped across dynasties, ranks, and daily life in ChinaGood reading and sources
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Bianfu", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryParampara rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-13.
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