Innovative Applications Of Chinese Waistcoat In Fashaion Design In The Late Qing Dynasty And Early Republic Of China

Kanjian (Chinese waistcoat), as a popular traditional female apparel in Qing Dynasty, has gradually developed out of its traditional mode:from simple structure to complicated decorations, as well as the return to simplicity during Republic of China. Its development also reflects Kanjian's competition spirit with modern civilization. The thesis applies methodologies of literature review, comparative analysis and summarization to conduct statistical analysis of Kanjian's historical evolution, characterization and decorative process, as well as its innovative applications in fashion design. It is concluded the following trends in the design of silhouette and decoration of Kanjian:the silhouette from loose and comfortable to slim and fit; textile from traditional oneness to modern diversity; decoration from complexity and luxury to simple and decent. Inspired by its development, the author creatively applies the elements of Kanjian to the practical fashion design, tries to merge the best of tradition into modern design, and therefore achieves an innovative application featuring both the traditional impression of Kanjian and the modern design elements.