What did Chinese civil servants wear?

Chinese civil servants traditionally wore a type of robe called a "hanfu," characterized by its long sleeves and flowing fabric. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, they often wore specific garments known as "official robes," which featured distinctive colors and patterns that indicated their rank and status within the bureaucratic hierarchy. These robes were typically made of silk and adorned with embroidered motifs, such as dragons for high-ranking officials. The attire not only reflected the wearer's position but also adhered to the Confucian values of propriety and social order.