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.