THE HANBOK AND OTHERS
Hanbok is a traditional costume that consists of straight lines and smooth curves. Previously, women wore short jackets and long skirt which were graceful. Commoners generally wore white, with the exception of festivals and special occasions (weddings). Meanwhile, clothes for the upper classes consisted of various bright colors and this is a symbol of the wearer’s social status. Now, diverse styles of the Hanbok have been altered to better suit practical everyday comfort.
Chogori and Ch’ima
Chogori for the females have evolved overtime more that those of the males. From historian records, the primitive version went all the way to the hips and was tied at the waist. By the late Chosun Dynasty (1392-1910), they only went as far as the arms.
The ch'ima is a rectangular or tubular skirt with a high, pleated waistband, tied above the chest with long stashes. By flowing over the rest of the body, it completely covers the female figure, greatly influenced by the Confucian society. Also, by donning the ch’ima, it allows a great deal of freedom for squatting, the preferred position when doing most household chores.
Durumagi
A durumagi is worn over regular clothes to generate warmth during chilly weather.
Although it is initially worn by government and royalty as daily attire, commoners started wearing them for celebrations too.
Ssukae Chi'ma resembles a cloak and is worn by woman during the Chosun Dynasty (1392-1910) whenever they went out in public. It is similar to a ch'ima but it is actually about 30cm shorter and narrower. Depending on the season, it can be altered into two layers or patched with cotton. The white collar could be pinched in to hide one’s face when a male approaches.