How ancient Chinese clothes helped beat the summer heat

Ma Clothes

Among the fabrics used for summer clothing in ancient times, ge cloth was known for its quality and affordability. However, fabric made from the herbaceous plant "ma" offered an even better combination of quality and cost-effectiveness. Hemp, flax, ramie and jute are collectively called “ma”, and the word is also used to refer to these materials when the exact species is unknown.

Since the Han Dynasty, ma has been cultivated on a large scale, making the cloth inexpensive. The advancement of textile technology allowed ma cloth to be woven finely. It is breathable and easy to dye, making it a commonly used fabric for summer clothing.