Chinese Seamstresses and Tailors
Sewing, stitching, or tailoring is the fastening of cloth, leather, or other flexible materials using a needle and thread. Most people know this basic definition, but the history behind tailoring is much more mysterious. In present-day China, as well as in most of the world, seamstresses and tailors do not hold a very high position in the community. However, during the Cultural Revolution in China (1966-1976), tailors were esteemed workers. At this time, Mao Zedong, as well as other influential figures, set new styles and trends including suits and dresses. This specific style of clothing was practically the only type worn by the Chinese population at that time. Other styles of clothing such as denim, high-heeled shoes, or any other old or western traditions, if worn, allowed the wearer to be subject to punishment. At the time of Mao’s suppressing influence over fashion, and all aspects of life, many tailors and seamstresses went on strike. Because of this Cultural Revolution, citizens of China flocked to these seamstresses and tailors because it was the one outlet of creativity that they had left. Through their clothes, the citizens were able to express the little individuality that they were still able to maintain.
