Kijun (基準)

Definition

Kijun refers to a standard or criterion used for judgment, evaluation, or decision-making in various contexts. In the realms of aesthetics and fashion, it plays a critical role in defining beauty standards, trends, and styles that dictate what is considered desirable or acceptable within a culture or society. This concept influences the creation of fashion designs, the marketing of products, and the general perception of beauty in visual culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kijun can vary significantly across different cultures and time periods, reflecting unique values and aesthetics that shape local fashion industries.
2. The idea of kijun is often tied to social status, with certain styles or appearances being seen as aspirational or desirable based on societal standards.
3. Fashion designers frequently use kijun as a foundation to create collections that resonate with current aesthetic values while pushing boundaries.
4. In Japan, kijun can be influenced by traditional elements such as kimono patterns and craftsmanship, which still impact contemporary fashion.
5. The digital age has transformed kijun by allowing global influences to merge, creating a dynamic interplay of standards that challenge local definitions of beauty.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of kijun influence fashion design decisions?
  • Kijun significantly impacts fashion design decisions by establishing a framework within which designers create their collections. Designers often reference current kijun to ensure their work aligns with prevailing aesthetic values and consumer expectations. By doing so, they balance innovation with market demands, leading to designs that resonate with audiences while also setting new trends.
• Discuss how kijun reflects cultural norms within the context of beauty standards in fashion.
  • Kijun serves as a mirror reflecting cultural norms related to beauty standards in fashion. It encompasses the ideals upheld by society regarding what is considered attractive or acceptable. As these cultural norms evolve, so does kijun, which can lead to shifts in fashion trends that challenge traditional views or embrace diversity. This interplay helps foster a broader understanding of beauty across different demographics.
• Evaluate the impact of globalization on the concept of kijun in contemporary fashion.
  • Globalization has dramatically reshaped the concept of kijun in contemporary fashion by introducing diverse aesthetic values from around the world. As cultures interact more closely through technology and media, traditional standards of beauty are being challenged and redefined. This blending allows for a richer tapestry of styles, encouraging individuals to express unique identities while also creating dialogues about inclusivity and representation in fashion. Consequently, kijun is no longer static but rather fluid and multifaceted, reflecting a global perspective on beauty.

Related terms

Aesthetic: Aesthetic refers to the principles and values related to beauty and taste in art and design, often influencing cultural norms and preferences.

Trends: Trends are the general direction in which something is developing or changing, particularly in fashion, where they dictate what styles are currently popular.

Cultural Norms: Cultural norms are the shared expectations and rules that guide behavior and attitudes within a specific cultural group, impacting concepts of beauty and fashion.