"More than three decades ago, hanbok, a traditional form of Korean clothing, was very much a part of every Korean's wardrobe. Like all clothing, hanbok also changed over the years with fluctuating fashion trends. Hanbok designs underwent many changes throughout Korea's turbulent history. The hanbok we wear today are reminiscent of the late Joseon Dynasty (early 20th century).In traditional hanbok design, curved features are important. As they are not meant to be tight fitting, the inherent beauty of hanbok is apparent in its elegance and style created by the abundance of material. The curves and vibrant colours of hanbok have had a significant impact on the Korean fashion industry. By combining traditional dress with modern fashion, a series of fusion hanbok designs were introduced. Designs and patterns of hanbok have even been applied to architecture." -- visitkorea.or.kr
Different colors have different meanings: some in general, some in a more specific way. However, few now pay attention to the meanings and choose colors based on personal preference.
Basic:
- yellow: center and ground
- red: north and fire
- blue: east and tree
- black: north and water
- white: west and gold
- gold: emperor (cannot be used by the general public)
- young (under 12): very bright with stripes on sleeves and a hat
- teens: bright pastels, can still have stripes (uncommon)
- violet: young people use vivid violet, middle-aged deep, seniors dark
- unmarried women: bright red chima (skirt), bright jeogori (jacket)
- new bride: bright red chima, light green jeogori
- married woman very happy with husband: violet otgoreum (cloth strings on jeogori)
- married woman: deep blue chima, jade green jeogori
- married woman with a son: deep blue ggetdong (bottom of sleeve)
- halmoni (mother of bride) on daughter's wedding day: pink
- mother of groom on wedding day: dark blue (navy)
If you're interested in purchasing hanbok or hanbok accessories, sonjjang.net is a good site (haven't bought anything yet, though), even if the English is a little rough in some spots. You can choose between modern and traditional styles as well.
