How Hanbok Evolved into Modern Fashion

It is becoming increasingly fashionable among young people to wear modern takes on hanbok or traditional Korean dress. Historic palaces even grant free admission to people wearing hanbok.

In the old days, women sewed new hanbok to give their children to wear during Chuseok. That was an arduous process before sewing machines, and a woman's sewing skill reflected her upbringing. Girls started to practice sewing at an early age.

It takes not only skill but a keen eye to make hanbok with vibrant colors that harmonize together.

The hanbok people mostly wear these days comes from the late Chosun Dynasty. Royalty, court officials, nobles and common folk wore different types of hanbok until they were simplified to become what we see today.

Until the 1950s, hanbok was widely worn in daily life, but it became a costume for special occasions and holidays when western suits and dresses became popular. The traditional attire has seen a resurgence as Korean culture has gained traction around the world, and many innovators and designers try modern interpretations with new materials.

Even luxury brands like Chanel and Dior have used hanbok as inspiration for their designs.

The result is it is now available for a wide variety of purposes from party to everyday wear, while fashion lovers use it to create a unique style.