Samfoo

This samfoo set consists of a sleeveless blouse ("sam") and matching pants ("foo"). The sleeveless blouse has side fastenings and a mandarin collar. The blouse and pants feature the black and white checkered design. The colours indicate that they were probably worn specifically for mourning during funeral ceremonies. The samfoo was popular in southern China, Hong Kong, and Singapore until the mid-20th century. Traditionally a loose-fitting garment, its cut allowed ease of movement when carrying out daily activities. After the Second World War, the more fitted samfoo styles became popular, from influence of Western fashion. People could purchase their samfoo at markets or get them custom-made by a tailor.

See related items

Samfoo with green and yellow floral motif

‘Samfoo’ pants with a floral motif

Brown samfoo

Traditional Chinese ‘samfoo’