Woman's semiformal coat

During the Qing dynasty, women from wealthy families would often wear silk clothing that consists of a side or front-fastening coat, short or long, with a wrap-around pleated apron skirt (see image). The two pieces here on display [1988.1 and F2019.2], though from two different sets, demonstrate how the coat would have been worn over a skirt of a similar length and design. This blue coat of a round collar and front buttons was possibly worn by a lady for a celebration or holiday occasion with auspicious motifs of flowers and figures in roundels, while the red skirt was possibly worn by a bride with dragon and phoenix patterns for prosperity.