Luxury department store Harrods is deepening its relationship with China by launching an Emerging Designers: China pop-up in its Knightsbridge store. This special showcase highlights the talent of China’s emerging fashion designers, with a particular focus on Chenpeng, a London College of Fashion graduate and winner of the prestigious Yu Prize. This marks the first time that Harrods has dedicated a space specifically to Chinese fashion talent.
The opening of the pop-up follows Harrods’ participation in a Shanghai Fashion Week (SFW) event, where the store aimed to foster closer connections within the fashion industry. As a way of celebrating Shanghai’s most sought-after emerging designers, Harrods is hosting Chenpeng’s inaugural collection on the first floor of its flagship store.
Visitors to Harrods Knightsbridge can explore a variety of Chenpeng’s designs, including his signature puffer jackets. Additionally, they will have exclusive access to collections from other Chinese fashion labels such as Shushu Tong, WMWM, and Ruohan from the Labelhood collective until mid-December. Poppy Lomax, the Buying Manager for Womenswear at Harrods, expressed excitement about the growing creativity of the Chinese luxury industry and the opportunity to introduce younger brands to Harrods’ customers.
The Yu Prize, an annual award launched by Yu Holdings chief Wendy Yu in collaboration with Shanghai Fashion Week, has named Harrods as a strategic partner. As part of the Harrods Hive incubator programme at SFW, the retailer organized networking events and expert-led panel discussions. The Harrods Hive will continue its activities both online and offline, ensuring ongoing connections within the fashion industry.
Harrods’ presence in China has been expanding significantly in recent times. In October 2020, the retailer opened The Residence Shanghai, a private shopping space exclusively for Chinese clients. This was followed by the introduction of another private shopping space in Beijing in June 2021. Furthermore, Harrods will launch its first Harrods Tea Rooms concept in Shanghai this month, offering a contemporary twist on traditional British afternoon tea.
Harrods’ efforts in China extend beyond physical retail spaces. In Shanghai, the store aims to build a community of talented individuals through a series of events that connect emerging leaders with established mentors. These events also provide opportunities to develop strong support networks and industry contacts. Harrods recognizes the importance of nurturing talent and providing growth opportunities within the Chinese fashion industry.
The establishment of Harrods’ Emerging Designers: China pop-up and its expansion in the Chinese market demonstrate the store’s commitment to promoting diverse and emerging fashion talent. By showcasing the work of Chinese designers and engaging with the local fashion community, Harrods continues to solidify its position as a global luxury destination.
Useful links:
1. Shanghai Fashion Week
2. Harrods China
