Objective As a significant material legacy of Qiang nomadic civilization, the goat-skin vest carries profound ethnic memory and spiritual beliefs. However, amid social transformation and modernization, its traditional production techniques face a severe inheritance crisis, and systematic documentation of craftsmanship and style classification remains largely unaddressed. This study aims to systematically record the endangered production techniques of the Qiang goat-skin vest through in-depth field research in Maoxian County, Sichuan Province, complete a scientific classification of its style system, and construct a systematic pathway for its contemporary significance reconstruction and design transformation, thereby facilitating the living heritage of intangible skills and the continuation of cultural genes.

Methods This research systematically examined the historical origins, formal classifications, and production techniques of the goat-skin vest by adopting an interdisciplinary approach that integrates field investigations, in-depth interviews, and design practices. Through field surveys in Maoxian County, first-hand data were collected to systematically organize the historical and cultural origins, tanning techniques, style classifications, and current development status of the vest. Based on semiotics, modular design theory, and material technology, a triple synergistic innovation framework of “symbolic system translation−functional module restructuring−material and craftsmanship innovation” was proposed. In the design practice, daily wear and performance wear were used as carriers under the "Infinite Vastness" thematic series. Methods such as parametric pattern generation, detachable module systems, and eco-material substitution were employed to promote the contemporary transformation of traditional attire.

Results The study achieved four main outcomes. First, it systematically organized the historical and cultural origins, technical characteristics, and development status of the goat-skin vest, fully documented its endangered production techniques, and for the first time, completed a systematic classification of traditional and performance styles. Second, in symbolic system translation, topological analysis and parametric algorithms were used to structurally reorganize traditional motifs such as cloud and horn patterns, generating a new graphic system that integrates traditional genes with contemporary aesthetics, thereby achieving the modern translation of cultural symbols. Third, in functional module restructuring, a system centered on a basic vest with detachable modules was constructed. The daily version used magnetic interfaces for quick changes, while the performance version incorporated light-sensitive materials and LED systems to enhance stage expressiveness, significantly improving the garment's adaptability to different scenarios. Fourth, in materials and craftsmanship, through the application of eco-materials and process integration, a combination of vegetable tanning, synthetic leather, and composite fabrics was adopted to enhance wearing comfort and sustainability while preserving cultural symbolism. The co-creation mechanism with craftsmen ensured the unity of cultural authenticity and technical feasibility. The "Infinite Vastness" series received positive feedback in visual expression, functional experience, and cultural narrative.

Conclusion This research systematically completed the documentation of endangered techniques and style classification of the Qiang goat-skin vest, filling a gap in this field. Through the systematic integration of the triple pathway "symbolic system translation-functional module restructuring-material and craftsmanship innovation", the Qiang goat-skin vest has been effectively transformed from a material relic into a living cultural carrier in the contemporary context. This pathway not only provides methodological support for the living heritage of Qiang attire but also offers a reusable theoretical model and practical paradigm for the contemporary innovative design of similar ethnic garments. Future research should further explore the compatibility of eco-materials, digital dissemination mechanisms for intangible cultural heritage, and community-based collaborative innovation networks to build a more resilient and adaptive cultural inheritance ecosystem.