Defisa

Based on the Chinese myth of the beast known as ‘Nian’ who descends down its inhabitant to feast on livestock in the village every year. This garment transforms the myth into a wearable apparel that resembles various forms of defense, as of the name ‘Defisa’, (meaning ‘defence’ in Italian). Chinese traditions such as the use of red and talismans are incorporated as they are believed to scare off the beast, meanwhile, the gold accent and the dragon-like make-up portrays strength and power. Inspired by the history of New York’s Chinatown, the immigration of Chinese immigrants into the States are represented through the choice of modern fabric, fringe and garment pattern. The integration of the modern world and tradition of this garment’s choice of colour also portrays how the American architecture in the area has been covered with Chinese signs over time.