Trending Attires Of Chinese University Students In Class

In China, uniforms are a common part of the school system, with almost all secondary schools and some elementary schools requiring students to wear them. The style of these uniforms varies depending on the school and region, but typically, they consist of a combination of suits, pants, skirts, and tracksuits. The variety of styles available in universities today is a far cry from the ideological campaigns that once dictated a drab, unadorned aesthetic.

Uniforms in mainland China

Uniforms are a common part of school life in mainland China, with almost all secondary schools and some elementary schools requiring students to wear uniforms. Typically, students have five sets of uniforms: two formal sets and three everyday sets. Formal uniforms are worn on Mondays and special occasions, such as school anniversaries and ceremonies. They usually consist of a white collared shirt with a sweater and a skirt for girls or a suit for boys, with variations for summer and winter.

Everyday uniforms for boys in the winter include a zip-up sweater, trousers, and a collared shirt, usually in white, with thinner materials and short or long trousers in the spring and summer. The everyday uniforms for girls are similar to the boys' uniforms, with the option of skirts. In recent years, schools have started to incorporate style into their uniforms.

The history of uniforms in mainland China has been influenced by various ideological campaigns and cultural shifts. During the early 1950s, students enjoyed diverse fashion styles on campus. However, as left-wing thought gained influence in the 1960s, military styles became popular. The red scarf, symbolizing loyalty and the Young Pioneers, was commonly worn by primary school students in the 1990s.

Today, Western fashions have made a comeback, with elite, independent, and boarding schools adopting styles such as long socks, collared shirts, sweater vests, and ties. The May Fourth suits, which were part of the protest against the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, are also making a comeback for special occasions.

Sports uniforms

Today, Chinese university students can get creative with their sports uniforms, adding their personal touches. For example, students might roll up their pants, wear different coloured socks, or layer their uniforms with vests or cardigans. Some students also accessorize their uniforms with fancy sports shoes or colourful shoelaces.

The cost of uniforms in China varies depending on the type of school. For international schools, the uniform cost is typically between 1000 and 2500 yuan, while public schools cost between 200 and 500 yuan.

While some Chinese netizens have criticized school uniforms for being ugly and lacking aesthetic value, others recognize their value in creating a sense of equality among students, regardless of their economic background.

Traditional vs. Western fashions

In China, uniforms are a common part of the school system, with almost all secondary schools and some elementary schools requiring students to wear them. Typically, students have a set of uniforms for different seasons and occasions. The everyday uniform for boys usually includes a zip-up sweater and trousers, with a collared shirt underneath, while girls' uniforms consist of a skirt and collared shirt.

Historically, the influence of Marxist ideology led to a drab and unadorned aesthetic among students, resembling the clothing of worker and peasant classes. However, the post-revolution diversity of the early 1950s brought a brief period of varied styles on university campuses. During this time, students at Heilongjiang University were observed wearing a range of styles, reflecting their individual choices.

The influence of Western fashions has also played a role in shaping the dress code of Chinese university students. In the 1980s, as reform and opening-up gained momentum, bright colours and Western styles became more acceptable, and government officials embraced business suits and ties. Today, students in China may wear styles more in line with Western standards, such as slacks or pleated skirts. Additionally, elite, independent, and boarding schools are adopting fashions reminiscent of the Republic of China, including long socks, collared shirts, sweater vests, and ties.

While uniforms are prevalent, there are variations depending on the school and the occasion. Some schools have sports uniforms specifically for physical education classes or assemblies. On special occasions, such as graduation photos or commemorative assemblies, students may don traditional May Fourth suits. The red scarf, symbolic of the Young Pioneers and inspired by the Communist red flag, remains a significant accessory in primary schools, often worn to display school pride.

The red scarf

The dress code for Chinese university students is not standardized and varies across different universities and regions. Generally, students are expected to wear clothing that is comfortable and appropriate for the learning environment. While some universities may have a more relaxed dress code, allowing students to wear casual attire like t-shirts, jeans, and sweaters, others may have a more formal dress code, requiring business casual or smart casual attire.

Now, let's focus on the red scarf, a significant piece of clothing in Chinese culture and a symbol of the Young Pioneers, the preteen organization associated with the Communist Youth League. The red scarf symbolizes the corner of the Communist red flag and the revolutionary martyrs' blood. It represents loyalty and pride and was often worn by primary school students in the 1990s, alongside other styles like slacks or pleated skirts.

The history of the red scarf goes back to the ideological campaigns that influenced fashion in Chinese schools. Despite the drab and unadorned aesthetic favored by the worker and peasant classes, the red scarf added a touch of color. Students in the Young Pioneers typically wore white shirts and dark trousers or knee-length skirts for girls, with floral skirts being allowed after 1952.

In the context of university students, the red scarf may be worn during special occasions or events as a symbol of patriotism and pride. It represents a connection to China's revolutionary past and the ideals of communism. However, it is important to note that the prevalence of the red scarf may vary depending on the university's location and political atmosphere. While some universities may encourage its use during certain ceremonies or celebrations, others may not emphasize it as much.

Overall, the red scarf holds a significant place in Chinese culture and has been a part of the dress code for Chinese students, including university students during special events. Its presence serves as a reminder of China's history and the values it represents, such as loyalty, patriotism, and revolutionary spirit.

Makeup and accessories

When it comes to makeup, Chinese university students tend to favour a natural and understated look. A light base, such as a BB cream or a tinted moisturiser, is often used to even out the skin tone and create a flawless canvas. A hint of colour on the cheeks, whether it's a soft pink blush or a peachy hue, adds a subtle glow to the complexion. For the eyes, a swipe of mascara and a neutral eyeshadow, perhaps in shades of brown or taupe, can enhance the features without looking too dramatic. Clear or tinted lip balm provides a subtle finish to the overall makeup look.

In terms of accessories, simplicity and elegance remain key. Delicate jewellery, such as a pair of stud earrings or a thin chain necklace, can add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the outfit. A simple watch, perhaps with a leather strap, is both practical and stylish. When it comes to bags, a versatile backpack or a structured tote in a neutral colour like black, grey, or navy, can seamlessly complete the ensemble.

The hair accessories that Chinese university students might opt for include understated styles. A simple hair tie, whether in a neutral colour or a shade that complements the outfit, can be used to pull back hair into a ponytail or a bun. Alternatively, a sleek headband or a minimal barrette can be chosen to keep the hair off the face while adding a touch of detail to the overall look.

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