Chinese traditional costumes of class consciousness

摘要

The artifacts design and usage have been evolving since preliminary civilization period from to satisfy pure physical needs gradually to also meet psychological needs. As the evolution result, some artifacts are designed and produced not only with practical or decorative value, but also with purpose to demonstrate the consciousness of rank difference. This article, from social class consciousness perspective, with the analysis on decoration methods, clothing color and materials, demonstrates the explicit and implicit class ideological connotation in Chinese traditional dress. The dress color and pattern are strictly defined for and associated with social classes, where any violation is prohibited. As a conclusion, most artifacts especially Chinese traditional dresses which clearly represent all social classes are the intended product by ruling class.