Today's apparel industry is highly developed, offering a wide range of designer products and frequently showcasing glamorous fashion shows through mass media. The most successful merchants today are not only wealthy but also have a strong economic foundation, allowing them to access countless luxurious and fashionable items with ease. However, many businesspeople may not realize that their predecessors were once restricted in their choice of clothing.
In ancient times, merchants were considered low-status individuals, even though they could be richer than farmers. Their attire was strictly regulated. For example, when Emperor Liu Bang returned home after becoming the emperor, he saw merchants dressed in extravagant clothes and felt uncomfortable. He issued an order that merchants could not wear bright silk, wool, or fine fabrics—essentially banning them from wearing luxurious clothing. This rule wasn't new; it was part of a long-standing tradition where dress codes were used to enforce social hierarchy.
Throughout the feudal era, clothing was more than just a practical necessity—it was a symbol of status and class. According to historical records like the "Shangshu," as early as four thousand years ago, during the time of Emperor Shun, there were strict regulations on clothing patterns. The emperor wore twelve different symbols, while princes wore eight, officials six, and commoners were limited to plain white garments. This system clearly defined social ranks, and no one was allowed to cross these boundaries.
Over time, each dynasty refined these rules further. Yellow robes were reserved for the emperor, as wearing yellow was seen as a sign of rebellion. Purple was associated with high-ranking officials, and commoners were restricted to blue or green clothing. Terms like "commoner" or "official" were directly linked to what people wore, making clothing a visible marker of identity.
Clothing, originally designed for warmth, modesty, and aesthetics, became a tool of social control under imperial rule. It lost its basic function and turned into a means of oppression. Today, most people enjoy greater freedom in choosing their clothing. Whether flashy, simple, trendy, or classic, people express their individuality through fashion. However, some still hold outdated views, believing that plain clothes equate to poverty, which is a misguided and superficial perspective. In reality, clothing should reflect personal style, not social status.
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