Cultures are not airtight, but, on the contrary, constantly interacting in time and space. Fashion is part of this transcultural exchange: it combines components of different cultural identities while crossing time and place.
In recent years, modern artists have taken inspiration from traditional Asian clothing in the fashion industry. Fashion based on the Japanese kimono, which historically represented status, identity and the changing seasons, have become increasingly popular. By quoting these traditional garments in their designs, artists not only pay tribute to Asian heritage, but they also produce culturally embedded modern outfits.
The cheongsam, also known as a qipao, is a traditional Chinese dress that took inspiration from western trends, including the introduction of Western-style business suits in Asia. The cheongsam eventually came to represent the Chinese society’s evolving views on women. In addition to traditional clothing, Japanese and Chinese floral patterns have also become more popular in modern fashion. We are also witnessing the return of Indian block prints through the y2k fashion trend. Wrap-style clothing too has become trendy, showing how traditional designs can be made into contemporary fashion.
Asian fashion has been introduced to audiences outside of Asia through K-pop, C-dramas and anime. For example, K-pop artists like BTS, BLACKPINK, and MAMAMOO have made traditional Korean clothes recognisable to international audiences by performing in hanbok-inspired uniforms. In a similar way, Chinese historical dramas and costumes have become popular around the world, and hanfu has become known as an important visual representation of traditional Chinese culture. Traditional Asian fashion has become increasingly popular throughout the world because of these entertainment forms. And it has a growing impact on modern fashion trends.
The European retailer Bershka has introduced Asian- inspired patterns and styles to a wider audience. Their collections include a range of influences, including traditional patterns, streetwear, anime prints, and k-Fashion. The fact that these styles are part of the collection of a major European retailer suggests that European consumers have become more interested in Asian-inspired fashion. The growing interest in Asian fashion has become an important way for people to engage and connect with Asian culture. Being able to walk into a nearby store and find Asian-inspired clothing makes these cultural influences more accessible and allows people to incorporate them into their own style.
Fashion has the potential to be a powerful connection between cultures. However, while it is amazing to see people using fashion to express their interest in other cultures, it’s just as important to understand and respect the background of these designs. Therefore, Asian fashion’s influence should not result in cultural appropriation. Some clothing, patterns, and symbols have deep cultural, historical, or religious meanings, which need to be respected to prevent them from being reduced to simple fashion trends.
Bronnen:
How Asian Inspired Fashion Became a Global Style Trend – Woolrec
How has Asian Culture Influenced Fashion all Over the World – artOfverse
BTS performs ‘IDOL’ on Jimmy Fallon show – YONHAP News
From hanbok to hangeul, BLACKPINK oozes Korean heritage in comeback – YONHAP News
Asian inspired Clothing – Bershka