Kaihua
The Cherry Blossoms of China
Inspired by the cherry blossoms of China and its symbolic significance in its tradition- a symbol of renewal, fleeting time, momentary luxury, my concept explores the form of the tree and the blossoms to create an intertwined mesh of overlapping blossoms. The aim is to encapsulate the beauty of the asymmetrical form adding a flair of luxury.
While the aim of the project was to create an accessory eventually, research played an integral role. Secondary research was conducted and different mythological references were taken into account to create a visual board. Further research was conducted to conclude a concept and identify a client. Consequently, Client board, Pestel Analysis Sheet and a trend board was created.
Once the research was concluded and the concept was finalized, several explorations were created in the form of pen and pencil sketches. The color palette, post-trial and exploration was decided to be rich and warm. It uses red and yellow in their deep warm shades both of which are considered fortunate and pure in the Chinese Tradition. Post review, the following five were finalized as part of a "Headgear Range Plan for Guo Pei Haute Couture".
Juànzhóu (Traditional Chinese Handscrolls)
Inspired by the traditional Chinese handscrolls which were often used for ancient illustrative purposes, the above form was generated. While this sketch doesn't used any legible or legitimate text, the prototype to be created will feature mythological tales and illustrations as part of the scroll.
Pānzhāngjié (Chinese Luck Knot)
Inspired by the popular ancient knotting patterns of China, the above form uses Panchangjie and lotus as main motifs. Further, the gold yellow wire mesh and the form itself are inspired by ancient Chinese Headgears and Hairstyles.
Liánhuā (Lotus)
Lotus is a popular symbol in the Chinese Mythology. The above form explores the Lotus in its different stages. The linework on the lotus itself is used to direct the viewers to the eyes of the wearer - an indirect implication of the saying "Eyes are the doorway to one's soul". The linework, in the prototype used "Kantha" stitch embroidery technique.
Siheyuan (Quadrangle)
Inspired by the form of ancient "Siheyuan" , an architectural style which features a quadrangle pattern specifically distinctive by it's roof, the above form explores a mesh of overlapping quadrangular rooftops eventually to create one supported by stilts. It references the "Worship Places" and is an indirect representation of the saying " The mind is a palace".
Kaihua (Cherry Blossoms)
A puzzle of knotting branches, the above form takes inspirations from the cherry blossoms of China which symbolizes renewal, fleeting time and momentary luxury. For the prototype, this design was taken forward and created using red malai yarn and copper wire.
The prototype used wire manipulation techniques namely - twisting, looping and knotting while the yarn was manipulated using simple knots done over and over to give the semblance of blossoms. Moreover, soldering was used at certain points to strengthen the form.
For the styling, the aim was to create a look of a traditional Chinese Kimono but not too elaborate since it would take away from the Headgear. Hence, a red satin cloth was draped along with a golden metal belt to imitate the desired look. For the makeup, a modest, subtle and elegant look was chosen paired with a clean, sleek hairstyle.
The above project was created as a final design project for "Accessory Prototyping", Interdisciplinary Minor, Semester 6, National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi under the mentorship of Dr. Kanishka (Professor, Accessory Design Department). All images and graphics used are original and in no way resemble any existing artworks by other artists. The images used in the boards are merely used for reference and inspiration and have been sourced from the web.
Accessory Development & Styling : Vartika Bhardwaj
Makeup Artist, Hairstylist & Model : Ishita Jain
Photographer : Lokesh Gunjyal
Department of Fashion Communication | Batch of 2020-2024 | National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi
