The Aesthetic Characteristics of Qing Dynasty Dragon and Phoenix Patterns in Contemporary Fashion Design - Focused on SS 2015~FW 2022 Collections -

Abstract

The unique artistic style of traditional Chinese patterns frequently appears on contemporary pieces showcased on the stage during international fashion weeks. As an important component of traditional Chinese culture, the pattern underwent several evolutions and developments, reaching its peak in the Qing dynasty. Therefore, this research aimed to explore the aesthetic characteristics of the Qing dynasty dragon and phoenix costume patterns in contemporary fashion design. In the theoretical background, this paper reviews previous studies on dragon and phoenix patterns and sorts out the characteristics of the changes in dragon and phoenix patterns throughout different periods of Chinese history. In addition, it examines prior research on the aesthetic characteristics of dragon and phoenix patterns and summarizes those characteristics. The dragon and phoenix patterns in the Qing dynasty costumes and their expression in contemporary fashion design are analyzed. Data were obtained from show photos of the four major international fashion weeks from 2015S/S to 2022 F/W in Vogue website. The website showcased 181 pictures of fashion pieces that used dragon and phoenix patterns; among them, there are 88 pictures of the Qing dynasty dragon and phoenix patterns. The aesthetic characteristics of the Qing dynasty dragon and phoenix patterns in contemporary fashion design are mainly manifested in fusion beauty, modern beauty, decorative beauty, and natural beauty. This research provides basic information for future clothing designs using dragon and phoenix patterns and provides different ideas for the application of traditional patterns in contemporary fashion designs. Moreover, this research allows for a better understanding of traditional Chinese culture and the beauty of traditional dragon and phoenix patterns.