(Photo/Hanfuhui.cn)

Hanfu, China’s traditional costumes, has become a new fashion trend among the younger generation, showcasing the charm of traditional Chinese culture.

Thanks to a more inclusive society and rejuvenation of traditional Chinese culture, this niche clothing now has a large following of enthusiasts.

Nowadays, many universities have developed large-scale Hanfu societies. At the Communication University of China, the Hanfu Club has attracted more than 150 members with rapid annual growth, and some of the members come from China’s Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, said the person in charge.

She also introduced that their daily activities cover traditional Chinese make-up training, dance rehearsals, and other activities combined with traditional festivals. During the Huazhao Festival, which literally means the “birthday of all flowers,” nearly 100 people participated in the special event.

Another batch of followers is the country’s emerging middle-income population. Many commuters wear Hanfu for outings and many young couples prefer Hanfu over Western-style suits for their wedding photos or family portraits to create ancient charm.

The craze has boosted the development of online stores and offline experience shops. On China’s e-commerce platform Taobao.com, thousands of stores sell Hanfu costumes with prices ranging from $14 to $300. Some even offer customized services. A store called Hanshang Hualian has cultivated more than 1.5 million followers in the past 10 years.

Besides the online experience, people can also try the offline experience stores. Guests can finish the dressing and hair style within 30 minutes, and a one-day rental will only cost them $45, said Bai Qiu, who runs an experience store along Qianmen Street, a popular tourist site in Beijing.

Bai added that during peak hours, the tiny store can welcome more than 20 guests a day.

Experts pointed out there are multiple reasons for the popularization of Hanfu culture. In an increasingly inclusive and plural society, people wearing characteristic clothing could gain respect and appreciation from others, therefore, they are more willing to show their own values and unique aesthetic feelings.

The rise of Hanfu fever not merely benefits from its delicate design; it is also a symbol of the rejuvenation of traditional Chinese culture, which expresses their confidence and recognition on cultural identity, Haiwai.net commented.