BLENDING CULTURES: A HANBOK-INSPIRED STREETWEAR LINE FOR SRI LANKAN YOUNG WOMEN

Abstract

This project presents a culturally infused streetwear collection for young Sri Lankan women, blending traditional and modern aesthetics. Showcasing the theme ‘Traditional to Modern,’ the collection transforms cultural heritage into contemporary fashion by integrating distinctive cultural elements into wearable designs. With the growing influence of the Korean Wave (Hallyu)—driven by K- dramas, K-pop, and Korean fashion—Sri Lankan youth, particularly Gen Z women, are increasingly drawn to Korean styles. However, limited local availability and high import costs make authentic Korean fashion difficult to access, creating a clear gap in the Sri Lankan market for culturally inspired yet affordable alternatives. The fashion collection is conceptually rooted in “acculturation”, the process by which elements of one culture are adapted and blended with another while preserving local identity. Drawing primary inspiration from the traditional Korean hanbok, the collection reinterprets key design features such as voluminous silhouettes, wrap closures, curved lines, and soft layering into versatile, climate-appropriate streetwear tailored for Sri Lankan consumers. Fabrics, colours, and textures are carefully selected to align with tropical conditions while preserving the aesthetic sensibility of Korean-inspired fashion. This collection not only satisfies the fashion aspirations of Sri Lankan youth but also promotes cross-cultural appreciation, enabling wearers to connect with global trends without losing touch with their own cultural context. It fosters a sense of identity, confidence, and modernity, offering fashionable alternatives that bridge the gap between tradition and global fashion influences. Ultimately, the fashion collection exemplifies how fashion can serve as a medium for cultural dialogue, creativity, and innovation, illustrating the harmonious coexistence of globalization and local identity within contemporary apparel design.