A Study of Design Using National Flags in Modern Fashion

The purpose of this study is to discuss the modern fashion design that incorporates national flags, by each country, methods of their expressions and distinct characteristics. Moreover, it intends to contribute in creating the image of Korea and our own unique fashion identity through creative designs that coincides with the modern trend by adopting Taegeukgi. The results of this study can be summarized as follows: The American flag and the British Union Jack were molt widely used and even though it was less frequent, flags of the France, Korea, Israel, Germany as well as Argentina have been featured in modern fashion. The expression methods also varied and it demonstrated the unlimited options as to how a flag can be presented. Some used the traditional flag as is. Some only used a portion of a flag or its colors as a motive or sometimes the flags were completely redesigned. There are distinctive characteristics when flags are incorporated into fashion. First, the shapes or colors of the flags were used to emphasize the image of a country in rather simple silhouette without many details. Second, through altered shapes, shades, colors or rearrangement, the country's image is presented in more subtle, indirect manner. Third, a flag is a mere element of a formation with various changes to its shape or color, and it no longer holds the traditional significance of a flag. It may also represent the playful or ironic image by combining with other items or execution techniques.