An Analysis of Traditional Cultural Narratives in Clothing Design Inspired by the Aesthetic Principles of Dunhuang Art

Abstract

Based on the perspective of Dunhuang art aesthetics, this study aims at the investigation of the extent to which the traditional cultural story has been incorporated into modern dress designing. Using an explorative format and qualitative methods and afterwards proceeding with the application of thematic analysis, the article focuses on how some of the aesthetic and graphic richness, the patterns and the motifs of Dunhuang art affect modern fashion and at the same time, retain cultural heritage. Situated at the heart of important historic transformations and cultural interactions, Dunhuang holds a rich resource in figures, images and symbols which are associated with spirituality, harmony and nature. The research explores these narratives using interviews with fashion designers as well as focussing on art historians and cultural practitioners, along with an additional examination of existing and upcoming Dunhuang-inspired fashion lines. Major concepts include how original icons have been changed to fit the contemporary trends, highlighting the issue of a balance between a work’s cultural identity and its purpose in the mass market production, and how Dunhuang art facilitate continuity of a particular culture while encouraging inventiveness. The implications of the findings point to the ability of clothing design in conveying culture in addition to providing appreciable knowledge about how indigenous methods can be revitalized to harmonize with modern culture without eradicating their origin. This research enriches the discussion of sustainable creative industries’ approaches to cultural heritage, while proving that traditional motifs remain influential in contemporary global fashion.