The character 衣 originally depicted an ancient robe-like upper garment with sleeves, resembling a simple line drawing of a garment hanging open. The character 服 originally represented the idea of submission or serving, but in this context, it evolved to specifically mean "to wear" or "clothing items". When combined into the compound word 衣服, the two characters merge their meanings: 衣 provides the core concept of a garment, and 服 reinforces it with the associated action and concept of adornment, together forming a comprehensive term that refers to clothing in general, encompassing both upper and lower body attire.