At Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2025–2026, 109 brands took to the runway, among them six influential Chinese labels that captured global attention: Caroline Hú, Icicle, RUIbuilt, Ruohan, Shiatzy Chen, and Uma Wang. Each presented distinctive interpretations of Chinese cultural identity through high fashion, marking a significant moment for Chinese designers on the international stage.
Caroline Hú Brings Dreamscapes to the Runway
Caroline Hú, who first appeared on the official Paris Fashion Week program in September 2023, returned with a fully developed label operating out of a New York studio. Her latest collection, “Reverie (Daydream),” drew on her cross-cultural background, using layered textiles to craft ethereal, soft textures. The designs featured exaggerated cutouts, cocoon and balloon silhouettes, semi-transparent garments, and delicate feather accents. The collection also included a footwear collaboration with adidas Originals, reinforcing Hú’s romantic and imaginative style.
Icicle Blends Philosophy with Fashion
Icicle, whose Chinese name 之禾 (Zhi Hé) translates to “sprouting seed,” emphasized principles of Chinese philosophy such as humility and wisdom. In its Paris presentation, the brand used natural materials like wool and cotton to convey a sense of warmth and domestic comfort. With a minimalist and refined aesthetic, Icicle appeals to mature Chinese women, especially entrepreneurs, and has earned the nickname “Chinese Max Mara” for its timeless elegance.
RUIbuilt Explores Feminine Identity Through Artistry
RUIbuilt, recognized for its signature hollow knitting and use of pearls and shells, centered its newest collection around maternal themes. While Rui Zhou’s avant-garde creations have found acclaim abroad, they have occasionally stirred debate within China. Nevertheless, Zhou continues to push creative boundaries, using fashion as a platform to express feminist ideas through unconventional and artistic design.
Ruohan Showcases Musical Inspiration and Artistic Integrity
Founded in 2021, Ruohan is known for drawing influence from multiple art disciplines. The brand’s F/W 2025–2026 collection reflected the elegant curves of musical instruments and was presented in a medieval-style courtyard. The choice of venue emphasized the brand’s commitment to merging fashion with artistic storytelling and cultural ambiance.
Shiatzy Chen Honors Heritage with Embroidery and Celebrity Influence
With over 30 appearances at Paris Fashion Week, Shiatzy Chen remains a consistent presence. The label’s most recent showcase featured intricate Miao embroidery, reinforcing its focus on Chinese heritage and craftsmanship. Collaborations with Chinese celebrities, such as Liu Yu—winner of “Produce Camp 2021” and a professional ethnic dancer—added further cultural depth and visibility to the brand’s presentation.
Uma Wang Merges Classic Art with Contemporary Fashion
Uma Wang, one of the earliest Chinese designers selected for Paris Fashion Week 2025, unveiled her eighth collection, which took inspiration from Piero della Francesca’s “Santa Maria.” She utilized luxurious fabrics such as cashmere, mohair, and silk to craft garments defined by sculptural shapes, graceful movement, and abstract harmony. The color palette evolved from earthy neutrals to rich blacks, evoking a sense of elegance and introspection. After the event, Wang returned to Shanghai to launch a lipstick set in partnership with Totemist, maintaining her brand’s enigmatic and refined image.
Despite their limited representation at the event, these six Chinese brands stood out with their diverse aesthetics and cultural narratives. Their presence at Paris Fashion Week not only showcased their individual artistic voices but also highlighted the growing prominence of Chinese fashion in the global industry.
Related Topics
- The Ringer Tee: A Classic Fashion Staple Makes a Stylish Comeback
- Miami Swim Week 2025: A Bold and Exciting Return to Miami Beach
- Amazon’s Best Men’s Casual Shirts for Every Occasion
