Yi Costumes at Liangshan, China : Ethnic Identity and Self-Representation of a Minority in the Context of Modernity

Abstract

Yi Costumes at Liangshan, China : Ethnic Identity and Self-Representation of a Minority in the Context of Modernity' is qualitative research. There were four research objectives: 1) To study the historical development of Yi people at Liangshan Province; 2)To studycostumes in the dimension of the ethnicity and material culture; 3) To study Yi's costume in the dimension of commoditization ;4) To study modern fashion from Yi's costumes in the context of modernity. This study uses the Yi costumes in Liangshan Province as its basis. Through the development history of Liangshan Yi clothing, the researcher analyzed the ethnic identity and expressions underlying Liangshan Yi clothing. Data were collected from documentaries, interviews, and general observations. and participatory observation. The research results are as follows:

Liangshan is a province located in the southwestern part of China. Liangshan is the largest settlement area of the Yi ethnic group, one of the oldest minorities in China. However, the Liangshan Yi can be classified into three subgroups. Geographical characteristics have influenced the cultural identity of the Yi people. Especially the dress that has a unique identity. Currently, the clothing of the Yi minority is distinctive. Each Yi style, pattern, color, and pattern on the clothing are distinctive. The costumes have become a mark for judging the specifics of the region. The Yi people have different rituals, festivals, and Yi costumes to wear in their special lives. And different levels and ages of the Yi people have strict instructions on wearing costumes and accessories. And the use of this special attire created a special national identity for the Yi people. In the context of modernity Policies encourage and support minorities in expressing their ethnic identity to the outside world, which has become a cultural capital used to develop products to generate income. Thus causing the phenomenon of cultural tourism influences, the Yi people have been receiving benefits from their traditional costumes. It has promoted the economic development of the Liangshan region. In the process of trade, the Yi people and outside groups are closely connected, and in order to meet the aesthetic needs of contemporary people, a large number of professional designer groups have begun to integrate costume elements. Traditional Yi meets modern fashion elements. It has become part of modernity, exhibiting on a higher international stage through model walks, etc.

This study will further study the Yi costume culture in the context of modern China from an anthropological and sociological point of view. and presents a great treasure of Yi apparel to the world which can serve as a research model for studying other minority crafts in China and the world.

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