Reflective Report: Reconstructing Chengdu’s Subcultural Fashion Identity through Local Culture

As an emerging fashion capital in China (Vogue Business China, 2024), Chengdu’s subcultural fashion development faces a key contradiction: while rich in intangible cultural heritage resources, its subcultural scene remains dominated by foreign aesthetics. This project systematically explores how to integrate traditional elements such as Sichuan opera, Shu embroidery, and sugar painting into contemporary subcultural fashion, constructing a uniquely Chengdu “gentle rebellion” fashion narrative (Hebdige, 1979).

The project draws inspiration from multiple sources. Theoretically, it references Hebdige’s discussion of cultural resistance in Subculture: The Meaning of Style (Hebdige, 1979). Practically, it observes local designers’ attempts to incorporate traditional elements into modern designs. Market-wise, Chengdu’s fashion index score of 8.56 (Vogue Business China, 2024) indicates its potential for developing indigenous subculture. These findings collectively point to a research direction: how to truly root Chengdu’s subcultural fashion in local cultural soil.

In-depth analysis reveals several key issues. First, consumers exhibit cognitive bias toward traditional elements, often viewing them as mere decoration rather than cultural expression. Second, existing cultural hybrid attempts, such as the “Chinese Lady” style, have yet to develop systematic Chengdu characteristics (Chengdu Municipal Government, 2022). These problems reflect deeper contradictions in Chengdu’s subcultural development.

A three-phase methodology is proposed. The research phase establishes theoretical foundations and market understanding through literature review and interviews. The design experimentation phase collaborates with Sichuan opera artists to develop modern clothing incorporating traditional facial patterns. The linkage phase facilitates direct dialogue between designers and artisans through workshops. These practices demonstrate that mere formal integration is insufficient—a complete cultural narrative system must be constructed (Hebdige, 1979).

The project’s most significant value lies in proposing a possibility: subcultural fashion can become a new vehicle for contemporary expression of traditional culture (Chengdu Municipal Government, 2022). By combining the concept of “gentle rebellion” with Chengdu’s “city of leisure” character, we outline a feasible path for local cultural innovation.

References:
Hebdige, D. (1979) Subculture: The Meaning of Style. London: Routledge.

Vogue Business China (2024) China’s New Fashion Capitals Report. Beijing: Vogue Business.

Chengdu Municipal Government (2022) International Consumption Center City Action Plan. Chengdu: Chengdu Municipal Government.