The Han people are by far China’s largest ethnic group. And so just as the Chinese language (yu) is known as Han-yu, hanfu red Chinese clothing (fu) is known as Han-fu. Hundreds of variations exist in Hanfu. In reality, though, traditional Chinese clothing has varied greatly from one dynasty to the next. Rather than using buttons or strings, most were kept in place by a sash belt. The clothing generally consists of loose gowns, wide sleeves, and flat, open collars folded over to the right. Hanfu was remarkably versatile and easy to wear. High hats and wide belts are distinguishing marks of scholars and officials. At the same time, traditional Chinese clothing was serious business. The right clothes gave off an aura of refinement and dignity. In The Book of Changes, or Yijing, a passage praises the three sovereigns-the Yellow Emperor, Yao, and Shun-for “ruling with their arms hanging in their sleeves.” These early rulers valued harmony between heaven and earth. As a result, the country stayed (mostly) peaceful, and they governed without worries, their hands literally tucked away as they watched the years pass. It embodied the virtues of Chinese antiquity, and contributed to the culture’s perception of self. Seeing inner-strife threatening to tear the country apart, the Duke convinced other lords to fight against the barbarians instead of each other. In another ancient reference, Confucius praises Duke Huan of Qi. He standardized clothing styles in his kingdom and extended the rules to nine other lords, thus uniting them.