Traditional crafts have taken center stage at the ongoing China Fashion Week in Beijing, showcasing designs inspired by the clothing and craftwork of ethnic groups. The event, which runs from March 20 to 28, integrates ethnic heritage with contemporary fashion, offering a creative revival of China’s intangible cultural heritage.
The 2025 edition of China Fashion Week features designers who have drawn inspiration from ancient crafts such as Miao embroidery, batik, and lacquer painting, reflecting a growing trend toward cultural sustainability. These pieces reinterpret heritage through the lens of modern fashion, bringing traditional artistry into the spotlight.
A standout moment of the week was a runway show that featured over 40 children from the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. Dressed in garments that incorporated intricate embroidery from the Miao, Dong, and Zhuang ethnic groups, the children were adorned with traditional Miao silver ornaments, lending a striking authenticity to the event.
“After years of effort, we’ve helped designers gain a deeper understanding of the essence of our intangible cultural heritage,” said Xie Fangming, vice chairperson of the China Fashion Association. “Their appreciation of traditional culture, symbols, elements, and materials has improved significantly.”
One of the key highlights of the event was Miao batik, a traditional dyeing technique recognized as an important aspect of China’s intangible heritage. Designers showcased this craft by blending Miao bird totems with contemporary cuts and silhouettes, creating garments that merged ancestral symbolism with modern aesthetics.
Lisu craftsmanship from southwest China’s Sichuan Province also made an appearance on the runway. Designers incorporated Lisu patterns, silver jewelry, and fireweed cloth into elegant silhouettes, combining texture, structure, and traditional motifs for a refined look.
Organizers noted that over half of the brands this season incorporated Chinese cultural elements. Many collections focused on creating lightweight, wearable designs, making heritage a part of everyday life while offering a modern, globally appealing vision of Chinese style.
This year’s China Fashion Week features nearly 230 brands from 12 countries, including China, Finland, and Germany. There are also close to 100 offline events taking place throughout Beijing.
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