• Journal of the Korean Society of Costume
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• v.54 no.6
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• pp.25-40
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• 2004

The rainbow has been considered as a perfect representative of color harmony in nature. In this study rainbow's colors include seven spectral colors and changeable colors according to observational angle. This study performed a bibliographical inquiry into rainbow colors and the survey research for classification of rainbow color images in fashion design. First, a bibliographical inquiry includes the definition of rainbow colors, physical formation principles of the rainbow, and its aesthetical attributes and symbolism. Second, this survey classifies rainbow color images in fashion design. The results of this study are as follows: 1. The rainbow was the religious and symbolic object before 17th century, and after that period, the rainbow became an aesthetical object. The main symbolic meanings are similar in eastern and western culture: temporary bridge between two world, divine nature, hope/beauty/richness, war/ death/flood/drought. 2. This survey shows that 6 main factors of rainbow color images in fashion design are 'vigorous', 'colorful'. 'fairy', 'fresh', 'mysterious', 'brilliant'. Rainbow color image in fashion design shows past and futuristic image at the same time. The purpose of this study is to systematized the images theoretical bases which are applied to color expression and of rainbow colors and to find out the development about rainbow theme by designers.