The Application of Paradox Aesthetic Concepts and Values in the Design of Contemporary Urbanomad Androgynous Sarongs Through a Visual Metaphor Approach

The global paradox is a characteristic of the postmodern era, where globalization simultaneously urges local culture while providing opportunities for its recognition and influence on global cultural trends. As an archipelagic country renowned for its natural resources and multicultural heritage, Indonesia relies on tangible and intangible local wisdom as the primary resource for its creative industry, particularly in fashion, to compete in the global market. The design work of Urbanomad has focused on elevating the sarong, a traditional Indonesian garment, as a symbol of identity within the context of a global gender-fluid trend. Therefore, this research explores the collaboration between local culture and gender-fluid fashion trends. Its aim is to understand the process of incorporating the concept of paradoxical aesthetics, derived from Indonesian local wisdom, into androgynous fashion designs that align with global trends. Data were collected through qualitative research, including observation, literature review, and documentation. The result is design research that employs the concept of paradoxical aesthetics, analyzed through visual metaphors. Its significance lies in contributing to sustainable cultural preservation through contemporary fashion creations.