TV show presents attire through the ages

Inspired by the journey, Li said the production team realized stage shows could showcase traditional attire in dramatic and innovative ways.

In one episode, an actress-playing a young princess puts on layers of wedding dresses with the outermost gown in black, before she embarks on her marriage to the ruler of another country on behalf of her own nation during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC).

"Through the development and evolution of Chinese fashion design, we can see how it has contributed to the world," Li said.