Most people equate Chinese fashion with the manufacturing and production industry or copies of European design, at best. What often goes unnoticed, however, is China's booming fashion industry. In celebration of the Chinese New Year this week, I would like to feature Chinese fashion.
Styles have definitely changed since the 80's when I lived and worked in rural China. Although many Chinese were experimenting with colors and patterns, the Mao suit was still a common attire among the masses. In the 1990's, unlike other countries, the Chinese government began promoting young designers by organizing various fashion events.
One of the most prominent Chinese designers to have emerged is 46-year-old Ji Wenbo, who is known for his Li Lang menswear brand. Ji Wenbo is a forerunner in Chinese fashion. He was the first Chinese designer to debut in both Tokyo and Milan Fashion Weeks, a milestone in Chinese fashion history.
Styles have definitely changed since the 80's when I lived and worked in rural China. Although many Chinese were experimenting with colors and patterns, the Mao suit was still a common attire among the masses. In the 1990's, unlike other countries, the Chinese government began promoting young designers by organizing various fashion events.
One of the most prominent Chinese designers to have emerged is 46-year-old Ji Wenbo, who is known for his Li Lang menswear brand. Ji Wenbo is a forerunner in Chinese fashion. He was the first Chinese designer to debut in both Tokyo and Milan Fashion Weeks, a milestone in Chinese fashion history.
What makes Ji Wenbo so unique is how he draws his inspiration from the unearthed Terracotta soldiers of Xian and blends them with the Beijing Opera and traditional Chinese folk culture.Ji Wenbo, congratulations and Happy New Year!
Photo Ji Wenbo s/s 2009 collection, Copyright Japan Fashion Week Organization.
