Xiapei

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Xiapei (Rosy Cloud Scarf)

Xiapei is a traditional Chinese clothing accessory that can be worn as a long scarf, a neckband, or a waistcoat, depending on the era. In Korea, it is known as hapi.

History in simple terms:
- Qin and Han dynasties: xiapei began as a long, thin silk scarf.
- Wei, Jin, and the Northern and Southern dynasties: it was called an embroidered collar.
- Sui and Tang dynasties: it gained its name from its beauty, like rosy clouds; it was a silk scarf worn around the neck and shoulders and wrapped around the body.
- Song dynasty: xiapei became part of formal attire, with peizhui ornaments at the front to show status.
- Ming dynasty: xiapei stayed as a long embroidered neckband, often trimmed with gold and lace; it was worn by queens and the wives of senior officials, and it also became part of wedding attire for commoners.
- Qing dynasty: xiapei evolved into a waistcoat-like garment made of three pieces; the front and back carried rank badges, tassels decorated the bottom, and it was tied at the sides and reached below the knee. Queens wore it daily, while other high-status women wore it for formal occasions; ordinary women could wear it only at special events like weddings.
- Korea: xiapei is called hapi, a long black silk shoulder cape worn by queens and royal women, often with other ceremonial items; it was a gift from the Ming dynasty and was used in Korea from late Goryeo through royal ceremonies, up to 1922.