The road to success for China’s fashion industry now runs through the iconic city of Paris, known as the capital of fashion. While the phrase “Made in China” has long been associated with mass-produced goods, Chinese fashion designers are steadily carving out a niche in Paris, entering the realm of luxury fashion that is increasingly driven by Chinese consumers.
One standout example is Guo Pei, the Chinese couturier behind Rihanna’s unforgettable canary-yellow cape, whose work has garnered international acclaim. Alongside Guo Pei, designers like Uma Wang, Masha Ma, Yang Li, Jarel Zhang, Dawei, and Shangguan Zhe are making waves at various fashion shows in Paris, showcasing their unique perspectives and talents.
Isabelle Capron, who heads the Paris office of Chinese fashion group Icicle, notes a shift in perceptions of Chinese fashion. She believes that Chinese designers are reshaping the narrative of “Made in China” by focusing on quality and sophistication, a shift that is resonating globally.
Icicle, originally founded in Shanghai in 1997, recently expanded to Paris with its first international store, reflecting a commitment to global outreach. The brand’s emphasis on natural fabrics and sustainable practices aligns with the values of a growing number of environmentally-conscious consumers worldwide.
Shangguan Zhe, the visionary behind the Sankuanz label based in Xiamen, underscores the evolution of Chinese manufacturing standards and the growing acceptance of Chinese brands in the global fashion scene. He stresses that the merit of a product surpasses any stereotypes or preconceived notions, particularly in a diverse city like Paris.
Meanwhile, luxury fashion house Shiatzy Chen, hailing from Taiwan and producing garments in Shanghai and Taipei, successfully blends Eastern and Western influences in its collections. By establishing a presence in Paris, Shiatzy Chen not only caters to a discerning Chinese clientele but also solidifies its position in the luxury market on an international scale.
The emergence of a new ‘Made in China’ trend symbolizes a shift in preferences among a younger generation of Chinese consumers who are embracing local brands, especially in the luxury fashion sector. Paris, as a mecca for haute couture, provides a platform for Chinese designers to showcase their skills and creativity to a global audience, fostering a new era of recognition and competitiveness in the high fashion industry.
This revolution in the perception of Chinese fashion is paving the way for local brands to gain prominence on the international stage, reshaping the landscape of the fashion industry as we know it.
For more information on Chinese fashion in Paris, check out these helpful links:
1. The Rise of Chinese Designers in Paris – Vogue Business
2. How Paris is Helping Chinese Fashion Designers Boost Their Brands – South China Morning Post
