Fashion Relics: The Dressing Identities of the Chinese Throughout History

In this captivating 1.5-hour lecture, participants will journey through 5,000 years of Chinese fashion, uncovering the rich history and symbolic power behind how the Chinese dressed and expressed their identities through clothing. Contrary to Western misconceptions of a static, unchanging Chinese "costume," Chinese fashion evolved dynamically over centuries, reflecting the rise and fall of dynasties, socio-political shifts, and foreign influences.

Key Highlights:

• Explore how Chinese fashion was deeply connected to social hierarchy and identity, where dressing was not only a performative act but one imbued with symbolism and moral codes.
• Understand how China, as an empire of silk, was at the forefront of textile innovation and craftsmanship.
• Discover the regional and foreign influences that shaped fashion during different periods, from the Han dynasty to the Republic of China.
• Examine how dressing practices were used to define and separate the "civilized" Chinese (Hua Xia) from neighboring “barbaric” cultures.

Lecture Breakdown:

1. Neolithic to Han: Creation of a unified China and the codification of dressing systems.
2. Three Kingdoms to Tang: Foreign influences in ancient Chinese fashion.
3. Song to Ming: Fashion in a time of ancient capitalism and economic expansion.
4. Qing to Republic of China: The fusion of cultures in modern Chinese fashion.

The lecture will also challenge common Western misconceptions about Chinese fashion, and explore the deeply relational and hierarchical nature of Chinese society. Through this lens, participants will see how fashion was not only about appearance but a reflection of one's societal role, moral standing, and cultural identity.

Takeaway: By the end of this lecture, you will have a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between fashion, identity, and power in Chinese history. You'll also gain insights into how Chinese fashion adapted to and reflected the ever-changing landscape of politics, trade, and cultural exchange.

Perfect for history enthusiasts, fashion lovers, or anyone curious about the socio-cultural fabric of China!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Link@AMK, 3 Ang Mo Kio Street 62, Bishan, Singapore