The fourth China International Consumer Products Expo Fashion Week concluded on a high note with the mesmerizing “Encounter Changjiang” runway show. Serving as the pinnacle of this year’s Fashion Week, the event illuminated the rich cultural tapestry of the Li ethnic group, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of Li brocade and Li pottery.
The marriage of traditional techniques with contemporary fashion sensibilities resulted in a spectacle that paid homage to the heritage and artistry of Li ethnic culture. Wang Changjiang, deputy head of Changjiang Li Autonomous County, emphasized the show’s objective: “to exhibit the enchanting fusion of Li brocade, Li pottery, and other intangible cultural heritage of Changjiang Li Autonomous County with modern fashion design, thereby spotlighting the beauty of Changjiang, Hainan Province, and China on a global stage.”
Hainan Lizhiyun Cultural Communication Co took center stage at the event, unveiling a collection of garments seamlessly blending Li ethnic characteristics with modern fashion trends. These outfits intricately wove traditional Li brocade weaving skills and patterns into contemporary elements, resonating particularly with the younger demographic. Notably, one ensemble artfully merged the romance of Li brocade with the iconic seaside mushroom houses, a popular destination in Shayutang Village of Changjiang Li Autonomous County.
Tang Lijin, a designer with the corporation, underscored the expo’s significance as a platform for global cultural exchange. “It’s a remarkable opportunity to showcase China’s high-level ethnic attire at such a prestigious event, enhancing global appreciation of Chinese culture,” she remarked.
Moreover, the commitment extends beyond clothing, as Tang highlighted plans to expand into home soft furnishings and lifestyle products. The goal is to seamlessly integrate the essence of Li brocade and other intangible cultural heritage into various aspects of everyday life, fostering a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
Catherine Cooke, Foreign Principal and International High School Division Principal at Hainan Yingya St Peter’s School in Haikou, expressed enthusiasm for deepening ties with the Changjiang region following their exposure at the China International Consumer Products Expo. Cooke expressed a desire to integrate the rich Li ethnic culture into the school’s education, fostering a meaningful connection with students through this unique cultural heritage.
Li brocade, boasting a history spanning over 3,000 years, stands as a testament to China’s earliest textile traditions. Revered as a “living fossil” in Chinese textile history, Li brocade was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2009, highlighting its urgent need for preservation. The traditional colors of black, red, yellow, and blue, derived from ancient plant sources, continue to dominate Li brocade, perpetuating its rich legacy for generations to come.
