---
node: garment_magua
type: garment
slug: magua
title: "Magua"
lead: "The magua is a short, hip-length jacket worn over the long changshan, adapted from the Manchu riding coat of the Qing. Its formal dark form, the mandarin jacket, topped the classic men's ensemble."
published: 2026-08-09
updated: 2026-08-09
image_file: magua.jpg
image_source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yellow_Magua_from_the_painting_Banquets-at-a-frontier-fortress_(cropped).jpg"
image_author: "Unknown author"
image_license: "Public domain"
---

## Overview

A magua is a loose jacket reaching to about the hip, with a round or stand collar and a front or side opening, cut for ease over a longer robe. It began as a garment for riding, its short length freeing the legs in the saddle.

## How it is worn

It is put on over the changshan and fastened at the front with knotted buttons; a plain dark magua over a long gown was correct formal dress, while a bright yellow magua was a mark of imperial favour bestowed by the Qing court. Trousers and cloth shoes completed the look.

## History

The magua spread with Manchu banner dress after the Qing conquest and, paired with the changshan, became the standard formal wear for Chinese men into the Republican era. Elements of its cut survive in the stand-collar jackets often called tang suits today.