Evolution hits the runway

Chinese fashion designers bring contemporary elements with traditional aspects to young consumers hungry for modernity, Zheng Zheng reports.

On the runway at Shanghai's Donghua University, a jacket with an outward-flaring structure commands attention. While its structure echoes the traditional dress of Hui'an women from China's southeastern coast, its contemporary materials and style bridge the centuries-long evolution of fashion.

This piece is among dozens of designs featured at the third series of the Contemporary Chinese Style Fashion Design Exhibition, where eight Chinese fashion designers have gathered to showcase their vision of Chinese aesthetics in modern fashion.