Cultural Identity Translation in Fashion Design: Srikandi Representation from Wayang Parwa in Semi-Formal Unisex Workwear

This study explores the translation of cultural identity into contemporary fashion design through a practice-based approach. The research is grounded in Wayang Parwa, a traditional Balinese shadow puppet performance, with a specific focus on the character of Srikandi as a symbolic representation of duality, strength, and resilience. The objective of this study is to develop a semi-formal unisex workwear collection that integrates cultural values into modern design practice. The methodology adopts a modified Design Thinking framework combined with fashion design development stages, including cultural interpretation, semiotic analysis, and design translation. Cultural values derived from Wayang Parwa and Srikandi are systematically transformed into design elements such as silhouette, color, material, and ornamentation. The design process results in a collection titled “Parakrama,” which embodies key conceptual attributes including simplicity, elegance, strength, ambiguity, and optimism. The findings demonstrate that cultural identity can be effectively reinterpreted into contemporary fashion through a structured and iterative design process. The resulting designs not only fulfill functional requirements of semi-formal workwear but also serve as meaningful cultural representations. This study contributes to design research by proposing a culturally grounded design translation approach, highlighting fashion as a medium for cultural preservation and innovation in contemporary contexts.