A new wave of innovative Chinese designers is transforming the fashion industry, blending creativity with cultural authenticity.
The fashion landscape is undergoing a transformative shift, particularly with the emergence of innovative Chinese designers who are pushing the boundaries of creativity and cultural expression. Harper’s Bazaar Singapore recently highlighted this evolution, focusing on a selection of prominent Chinese fashion labels that are increasingly capturing the attention of industry insiders and fashion enthusiasts alike.
One of the standout brands is SHUSHU/TONG, established in 2015 by Liushu Lei and Yutong Jiang. This Shanghai-based label has garnered a reputation for its “feminine youthful energy with a formal wear twist,” as described by fashion insider and advocate Garbo Zhu. SHUSHU/TONG has successfully blended a grown-up coquette aesthetic with exceptional tailoring, and its pieces have graced the red carpets of high-profile events, worn by celebrities such as Nicole Kidman, Olivia Rodrigo, Rosalía, and members of BLACKPINK. The brand is celebrated for its ability to create garments that resonate with a modern audience while honoring traditional elements.
Another notable label is Cheap Art Label, noted for its whimsical creations that evoke a sense of fantasy. This brand specializes in dream-like pastel hues and playful silhouettes, which are favorites among those seeking a cottage-core aesthetic. Zhu remarked on the brand’s enchanting styles, which include lace-trimmed blouses and tiered midi skirts.
Tropiceye, founded in 2016 by Lisha Kim, embodies a unique flair that merges fashion with artistic expression. Zhu likens Tropiceye’s style to the enigmatic art teacher that every student crushes on, emphasizing its playful silhouettes and textured fabrics that reinvigorate everyday wear with an avant-garde essence.
Papi Lav is another charming addition to the list, with garments that seem to echo the wardrobe of a modern fairytale princess. With its focus on frills, florals, and soft hues, the brand is perfect for those looking to embody a ‘soft girl’ aesthetic.
The brand Rui Zhou is particularly well-known within fashion circles, having dressed a slew of A-list celebrities such as Lalisa Manobal, Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, and aespa. The designer’s work showcases a mastery of fabric manipulation and features strategic cut-outs that explore the relationship between skin and clothing. Zhu characterized Rui Zhou as an avant-garde label with “sculptural knitwear and fluid silhouettes” that offer a second-skin feel.
Another brand, AO YES, co-founded by Austin Wang and Yansong Liu, focuses on integrating modern Oriental culture into contemporary fashion. Zhu appreciates the way AO YES blends bold, architectural designs with innovative reinterpretations of traditional Chinese elements, which underscores the beauty of its cultural heritage.
BAD BINCH TONGTONG, designed by Terrance Zhou, has emerged as a voice of innovation in the fashion industry. Known for his sculptural silhouettes, Zhou creates designs that are both edgy and playful, often making a striking statement. Zhu explains that the brand has a contemporary urban style that reflects creativity in its unique silhouettes.
Lastly, Fax Copy Express provides a modern twist on the everyday working wardrobe, characterized by timeless minimalism with a bold contour. The brand emphasizes long-lasting garments that are ideal for versatile settings, combining elegance with practicality, making them suitable for both work and social gatherings.
These Chinese labels, each with its own unique style and approach, are contributing significantly to the global fashion narrative. Their commitment to creativity and cultural authenticity is resonating with audiences worldwide, and as they gain recognition, the impact of Chinese designers is set to grow even further.
Source: Noah Wire Services
