8 Chinese Designers Making Waves at Shanghai Fashion Week

It’s Fashion Week, baby! Shanghai Fashion Week has officially kicked off, and this year’s Spring Summer edition is bursting with fresh energy that the fashion world desperately needed. While some corners of the industry might be yawning, the spotlight shone brightly on a wave of innovative brands, each one redefining what it means to be “Made in China.”

Once associated with mass production and fleeting trends, we are now witnessing a vibrant revolution, spearheaded by a dynamic group of Chinese designers who are not merely participating in the global fashion dialogue — they are transforming it entirely. 

This new wave of creativity redefines “Made in China” as a symbol of innovation, craftsmanship, and avant-garde design.

From futuristic knitwear that feels like it’s been plucked from a stylish dystopian narrative, to sustainable practices that pay homage to the rich cultural tapestry of ethnic minorities, these eight visionary designers are at the forefront of reshaping the fashion landscape, both within China and on the global stage.

Nan Knits: Futuristic Knitwear with a Technological Twist

Nan, the creative force behind Nan Knits, is shattering conventional knitting norms by merging technology with artistry. A graduate of both the London College of Fashion and the Royal College of Art, Nan’s creations elevate traditional knitwear into realms of futuristic artistry.

DAMOWANG: Modern Wuxia for the Independent Woman

Founded in 2015 in Shenzhen, DAMOWANG draws deeply from Wuxia culture, an essential aspect of modern Chinese literature and cinema. Designer Hanlei artfully blends this rich heritage with contemporary aesthetics to craft looks that resonate with the modern, independent woman.

SAMUEL GUÌ YANG: A Cultural Bridge Between East and West

Samuel Guì Yang embodies a unique duality through its London and Shanghai roots. The design duo of Samuel Yang and Erik Litzen skillfully intertwines Chinese and Western design philosophies, marrying historical narratives with modern elements. Their mission is to redefine perceptions of “Made in China,” showcasing creativity, quality, artistry, and sustainability.

Kinyan Lam: Sustainability Meets Tradition

Kinyan Lam’s work exemplifies the intersection of sustainable fashion and traditional craftsmanship. His designs prominently feature Dong cloth, a handmade fabric created sustainably by the Dong community in Southwestern China. By skillfully incorporating traditional methods into his designs, Kinyan crafts unique menswear silhouettes that honor tradition while pushing contemporary boundaries. RADII accompanied Kinyan to Guizhou province earlier this year to get the full scoop on his practice; check out our video and article.

AO YES: Modern Oriental Intellectualism

Co-founded by Austin Wang and Yansong Liu, AO YES is pioneering a new vision of Oriental fashion infused with avant-garde sensibilities. The brand seeks to portray the modern Oriental intellectual by integrating rich Chinese culture into high-end fashion through innovative design details and fabric choices.

Office h: Inflatable Fashion for the Future

Zewei Hong made headlines at this year’s Shanghai Fashion Week through his groundbreaking use of inflatables in fashion. His Spring/Summer 2025 collection features inflated trousers, bags, and jackets equipped with electric fans, creating striking silhouettes. Inspired by rock climbing, Office h challenges conventional office wear while demonstrating a commitment to keeping fashion cool — both literally and figuratively.

Louis Shengtao Chen: Redefining Luxury Through Experimentation

Launched in 2021, Louis Shengtao Chen’s brand aims to challenge established notions of glamor and luxury through an experimental lens. By weaving dramatic storytelling into his designs and blending bold colors with unconventional fabrics, Louis celebrates life, beauty, attitude, and dreams. And his experiments haven’t gone unnoticed: he earned recognition as a finalist for the LVMH Prize in 2023.

STAFFONLY: The Art of Quirky Workwear

STAFFONLY celebrates working culture with a playful twist, transforming the often mundane world of office attire into a vibrant expression of individuality. Founded by Shimo Zhou and Une Yea in 2015, the brand takes inspiration from the life of the modern professionals, infusing humor and irony into every piece. With a keen eye for detail, STAFFONLY challenges traditional notions of workwear, inviting wearers to embrace their quirks and explore new identities through fashion.

These eight designers represent just a fraction of the immense talent emerging from China’s fashion scene. Each brings a unique perspective, whether it’s Nan Knits’ technological innovation in knitwear, DAMOWANG’s modern take on traditional culture, or Office h’s futuristic inflatable designs. 

This isn’t merely a fashion renaissance; it’s a deep dive into the realms of identity, heritage, and a radical narrative shift that beckons us to reconsider what “Made in China” signifies. As these creators weave their stories into the fabric of global fashion, they challenge us to embrace a more expansive understanding of creativity — one that transcends borders and defies conventions, inviting us into an exhilarating dialogue about the future of style.

Banner image by Haedi Yue.

From Hardcore To Haircuts: The Malaysian Musician-Barber Modernizing Men’s Grooming

For most Malaysian men, a trip to the barbershop is no different than buying groceries or sending a car for repairs; it’s an errand to check off the list. While run-of-the-mill barbershops continue to be mainstays in serving everyday people, a new generation of barbers is emerging to modernize the men’s grooming experience, going beyond just offering the usual shaves and cuts. Kevin “Cottie” Tan is at the forefront of this movement, alongside his industry peers. 

Tan is the co-founder of The Oven Cuttery, a contemporary barbershop in Petaling Jaya (a major suburb outside of Kuala Lumpur known for its bustling F&B scene), as well as Mentega (which means “butter” in the Malay language), a handmade grooming product brand. The two brands come together in the barbering process: upon the completion of a haircut, Tan styles using Mentega-branded pomade, prepping his clients to take on the day with the confidence and swagger only a new look can bring. As alluded to in the brand names, a haircut here is meant to be a “fresh out of the oven” experience.

A former journalist with an unwavering passion for music, Tan, together with his team, has solidified The Oven Cuttery into an institution known for quality haircuts, personalized service, and a welcoming atmosphere for the modern man to seek respite from the grittiness of Kuala Lumpur — albeit just for an hour. RADII spoke with Tan over text to learn more about the juxtaposition between barbering and music, old school grease, a future clothing line, and more.

The following interview has been edited for clarity and length. 

John Lim: To get things started, give us a quick intro about yourself.

Kevin “Cottie” Tan: Hello! My name is Kevin. Some people know me as Cottie, a silly nickname I got in the music industry. For work, I am a barber and the co-founder of The Oven Cuttery barbershop and handmade grooming brand Mentega. Out of work, music is a big part of my life. I used to play in indie rock, metal, and hardcore bands before embarking on a solo project. 

John: You were a journalist, but now a barber. That’s quite a career switch. How did that happen? 

Kevin: Getting into barbering was quite accidental. During my time as a journalist (at least 12 years ago), I began dabbling in making traditional oil-based pomades. They’re worn [for] classic hairstyles from the early 1900s (think Peaky Blinders, The Great Gatsby) to the 1960s. Old school pomades in Kuala Lumpur were a rarity. You’d find a handful of imported brands, but there was a lack of variety. This gap in the market spurred me into making my own blend where I could control the shine, hold, and scent of a pomade. 

Eventually, my friends were asking me for pomades, and their friends started asking me too. This was also the time when I left my job as a journalist to pursue barbering. During this period, my mentor, Lex Low, was setting up a barbershop, and asked me to join him in building the business. Everything just fell into place, so I decided to make barbering a career and launch a brand for the pomades.

Kevin holding a tray of pomades, ready for labeling and packing. Image courtesy Kevin “Cottie” Tan.

John: Let’s talk about music for a bit. You played in bands and now you’re experimenting with guitars and gear, and even releasing a couple of songs. How does your passion and background in music help in barbering?

Kevin: I think all forms of creative work intertwine with each other. It’s like the cognitive experience we all have as humans. When creating haircuts with my clients, we tend to explore concepts instead of how “short or long” a haircut should be, because it’s about the character of the style, rather than the technicalities. This explains why I lean towards bold haircuts; anything with a level of distinction. Whether you’re looking at it from afar or up close, there’s uniqueness. It’s similar to how hardcore or metal music has a strong sound of aggression: the screams and distorted guitars — it’s instantly recognizable.

John: Tell us about The Oven Cuttery — there’s a loyal following, why do you think that is? What separates it from other modern barbershops?

Kevin: Aside from being barbers who perform quality cuts and shaves, we focus a lot on our atmosphere, for people to find solace and rest in the city. Our appointments end with a relaxing hot towel service and a head and shoulder massage. We also serve coffee and craft beers if our clients want to hang out before or after their appointment. I think this aspect is what brings people back — to the crew, but also the space itself.

The Oven Cuttery team. Image courtesy Kevin “Cottie” Tan. 

John: The shop is also home to Mentega, a grooming line consisting mainly of quality pomades. What’s next for The Oven Cuttery and Mentega? Will you be introducing more products beyond pomades? 

Kevin: We are going through a small rebranding for Mentega, followed by some new hairstyling products and also home goods like body washes, room sprays, candles and such. Finally, a menswear clothing label under The Oven Cuttery that’s coming up soon. Very excited about this!

The Oven Cuttery in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
The Oven Cuttery. Image courtesy Kevin “Cottie” Tan.

Banner image courtesy Kevin “Cottie” Tan.

Active Escapes: How Sports are Transforming Chinese Tourism

During peak travel times like China’s “Golden Week,” more and more tourists are incorporating physical activities such as hiking and cycling into their trips. Popular destinations like Hangzhou have become hubs for this trend, offering a perfect environment for outdoor activities. Resorts in scenic locations are adapting by blending sports into more traditional tourist amenities. These offerings range from mountain climbing to paddleboarding, drawing in active travelers looking for more than just relaxation.

For those who decide to stay closer to home, fitness centers and local community sports events can provide an active way to enjoy holidays. This shift finds many Chinese millennials and Gen Zs focusing on wellness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, even during their leisure time.

A post by Xiaohongshu user 扣子一十六 (Kou Zi Yi Shi Liu), a former synchronized swimming champion who’s currently a graduate student, helps explain the appeal of active travel. In the caption for a vlog of a trip to Dali, Yunnan’s hub for stylish yet outdoorsy travel, the influencer wrote, “My way of traveling has reached the next level — combining my two greatest loves, sports + travel, makes everything twice as fun!” Her experience in Dali included paddleboarding under a bridge, rock climbing, and morning yoga with like-minded friends, along with more typical tourist activities like exploring the city’s old town and sampling local cuisine.

Sport enthusiasts enjoying outdoor activities in Changsha.
Sport enthusiasts enjoying outdoor activities in Changsha. Image via 
努力变好的熙儿.

Travel companies have noticed this shift too. Online travel agency Ctrip, a major player in China’s travel industry, recently shared its suggestions for travelers seeking active experiences in a Xiaohongshu post with the title “I do declare! The travel style for athletes is already next level!” In the accompanying video, Ctrip highlighted a variety of travel activities, such as village basketball matches, mountain yoga, glacier hikes, and even paragliding over the Mediterranean. With options like these, they’re inviting tourists to “burn calories together” while exploring new places.

The growing enthusiasm for sports tourism ties into a broader cultural shift in China. Major sporting events like the Winter Olympics have inspired many to take interest in more active lifestyles. Meanwhile, increased government investment in public sports facilities, aimed at fostering a culture of fitness and well-being, is creating a supportive environment for this trend. 

This growing movement suggests that for many in China, the joy of travel is now accompanied by the pursuit of physical vitality.

Banner image via China Daily Hong Kong.

The Twin Hills, Shanghai’s Newest Fake Mountains, Open to the Public

Shanghai is often the butt of jokes for its flat, completely urbanized landscape. Built on land shaped by the shifting sands of the East China Sea, the city’s almost complete lack of higher elevation terrain (not including skyscrapers) is sometimes a talking point. But as of September, Shanghai locals and visitors alike can now experience “mountains” right in the city center.

Nestled in what was once the 2010 Expo Park, now called the Shanghai Expo Culture Park, the Twin Hills (双子山 Shuāngzǐ Shān) are entirely man-made and cover a whopping 300,000 square meters. The main peak stands at 48 meters, with the smaller one at 37 meters. The hills feature over 7,000 trees, and inside their hollow structures are exhibition halls, parking lots, and even an electrical substation. It’s the first time such a large-scale artificial mountain with a hollow structure has been built in China. Locals fondly say they’ve “watched these mountains grow up” over the nine years it took to construct them.

One photography blogger documented construction work on the Twin Hills, starting in 2018. Photo via Xiaohongshu.

Shanghai residents are buzzing about the new hiking opportunity in the heart of the city. Previously, the only option for hiking in Shanghai was the 98-meter-high Sheshan, located in the suburban Songjiang district. But now, with the Twin Hills much closer and easier to reach, they have become an instant hit. Visitors come from all parts of Shanghai, some traveling from more distant parts of Pudong and even from the western outskirts of the city, almost in Suzhou. Despite Typhoon Bebinca (the strongest storm to reach Shanghai in decades) hitting the city on the third day after opening, the park still attracted around 1,000 visitors — a testament to the excitement around the Twin Hills.

“China’s Niagara Falls.” Photo via Xiaohongshu.

Netizens and visitors have been using their imaginations to maximize their enjoyment of the hills. The small waterfall in the park has been dubbed “China’s Niagara Falls,” and people humorously rephrase the height of the 48-meter peak as “4,800 cm” to make it sound more impressive. Many visitors have made Xiaohongshu posts jokingly claiming that they suffered from altitude sickness while visiting the hills. Some visitors even wear professional hiking gear, sharing photos on social media that, at first glance, make it look like they’re trekking a real snow-covered mountain. For those scrolling quickly, it’s easy to wonder, “Does Shanghai really have mountains now?”

Adding to the fun, the park offers hiking poles for visitors, which has sparked quite a bit of online banter. Although the poles were intended for elderly visitors, who make up a significant portion of family groups, they became so popular that the park began replacing them with broom handles once the original stock ran out because people were not returning the sticks. 

However, some controversy surrounds the project, especially due to its price tag of over 2.1 billion RMB (288 million USD). Shanghai taxpayers can’t quite understand why their taxes were used to build two short hills in the city center. Some have even mockingly dubbed them “Big and Small Flat Hills” (大小瘪山), a play on the Shanghai dialect term “瘪三,” which originally referred to vagrants without proper jobs but is now used to describe scrawny, disreputable individuals. Still, the park’s focus on sustainable design and creating a family-friendly environment seems to have won over the city. The Twin Hills may be artificial, but overall they’ve captured the hearts of the city’s residents.

Banner photo via Xiaohongshu.

Designer Kinyan Lam Is Weaving Guizhou’s Cultural Heritage into Sustainable Fashion

Sustainability is no longer simply a trend but a necessity, and designer Kinyan Lam is keeping this firmly in mind as he makes waves within the fashion industry. 

Skilfully intertwining traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics, Lam is dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage of China, particularly through the artistry of the Dong people (侗族 Dòng zú) — an ethnic minority found across Southwest China, including in Guizhou province. His journey from the Chinese mainland to Hong Kong, and eventually to the fashion capitals of Europe, has shaped his vision and commitment to sustainable fashion.

Lam‘s background is as multifaceted as his designs. Born in Yunfu City, Guangdong province, he relocated to Hong Kong at the age of 10. Since then he has navigated various cultural landscapes, moving to the UK to undertake a Menswear MA Course at the London College of Fashion, and Germany, where he  interned at clothing and homeware manufacturer Esprit Holdings. This exposure to diverse cultures has enriched his perspective on fashion and sustainability. “I feel like I’m an octopus,” he explained earnestly as he reflected on his adaptability and connection to multiple environments. 

Yet, despite his global experiences, it is the memories of his childhood in a Guangdong village that resonated most deeply with him, eventually leading him to remote areas in another Chinese province. Guizhou, characterized by its mountainous landscapes and vibrant local culture, is home to a tapestry of ethnic minorities, including the Dong people. They celebrate their traditional crafts, namely the Dong cloth (侗布 Dòng bù), a cotton fabric which represents a heritage passed down through generations. The creation of Dong cloth involves weaving white fabric and immersing it in different natural dyes, mainly indigo.

RADII Voices: Fashion Designer Kinyan Lam — Threads of Heritage.
An artisan weaves fabric to make the Dong cloth itself, the foundation of Lam’s creations. Video still by Samwill Yau.

Lam recognizes the urgency of preserving age-old techniques at risk of extinction due to modern, less labor-intensive alternatives. He believes we may be the last generation to appreciate the significance of the Dong cloth and other similar crafts.

Commenting on the disappearing craftsmanship in Guizhou, Lam emphasized the province’s untapped potential, stating that it holds treasures in traditional industries that are crucial to explore and preserve.

Though Lam is aware that he is not alone in this mission — he acknowledges that other designers, government initiatives, and cultural groups are also working to maintain these traditions — he feels a personal responsibility to lead the charge.

Working in unison with the local community, Lam dyes a Dong cloth. Video still by Daryl Eng.
One of Lam’s creations at his Paris show in late September 2024. Image via Lam’s Instagram post.
Although the Dong cloth is best known for its indigo dyes, Lam uses a range of hues — such as red and green — in his Spring / Summer 2025 collection, “I Was Once A Tree.” Image via Fashion Farm Foundation’s Facebook post.

His latest collection, “I Was Once A Tree,” launched during Paris Fashion Week for Spring/Summer 2025, embodies his commitment to sustainability and cultural storytelling. While indigo blue is the most well-known choice of dye for Dong cloth, this collection introduces different colors, such as green and red, to reflect the vibrancy of the natural world. Using soft, breathable, and sustainable fabrics, the designs embody the ease and joy of summer.

The collection’s name references the deep connection between people and trees, emphasizing that both are vessels of life. In his notes for the collection, Lam reflects on how around the world, from Madagascar to Guizhou, different cultures link trees to the human life cycle. 

Embroidery is one of many crafts made by the local Dong people. Video still by Daryl Eng.
In the past, Dong clothing was passed down between generations. Video still by Daryl Eng.

For Lam, sustainability means creating high-quality products — clothing that can be cherished and passed down through generations. He reflected that, traditionally in China, women would make three garments for a child: one at birth, one for when they grew up, and one for their marriage. This perspective emphasizes the value of craftsmanship and an emotional connection with garments, sentiments that Lam is committed to reviving in his work.

Lam’s commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation has earned him accolades not only in the European fashion scene but also from the artisans he collaborates with in Guizhou. His efforts resonate deeply within the local community, including with Yang Chenglan (known as Lan Lan), the founder of textile brand Yi Shan Ren (倚山人). Deeply moved by how a young designer like Lam invests so much care into each piece, she admires his dedication to the craft of the Dong people and notes the profound thought he puts into every design, reflecting a deep understanding of their cultural significance.

Kinyan Lam speaking with RADII about his work. Video still by Daryl Eng.

The designer’s vision extends beyond fashion. Lam aims to showcase the richness of Chinese heritage to the world. “We’re not without cultural heritage; it’s just that it has yet to be discovered by others,” he explained, highlighting the importance of integrating traditional techniques with contemporary design.

By celebrating the artistry of the Dong people, Lam not only preserves their craft but also champions sustainability for future generations. His work skillfully blends traditional techniques with contemporary design, creating a powerful narrative that bridges cultures. This approach underscores the importance of honoring and sharing this rich heritage with the world, ensuring that both the past and present are valued in the fashion landscape.

Banner image by Haedi Yue.

Step Inside China’s Latest Nightlife Trend: The Home Bar Experience

In China’s ever-changing nightlife scene, a concept has emerged where strangers are invited into private homes for social gatherings that offer an intimate, low-pressure way to connect: welcome to the “home bar.” This new form of socializing provides a cozy environment where guests can unwind, play games, and form meaningful connections away from the hustle of traditional bars.

The growing popularity of home bars is largely driven by young professionals, who are seeking more casual and personal settings to socialize. Unlike the chaotic atmosphere of regular bars, home bars offer curated experiences with planned activities like games or conversations. Entry fees typically range from 100 to 300 RMB, giving customers access to a unique and intimate experience, often including an all-you-can-drink option. Fitting perfectly into the schedules of those looking to unwind after a long workday, these gatherings often take place from 7 PM to 2 AM.

Partygoers relax at Shanghai’s Pigs Homebar. Image via Pigs Homebar.

What sets home bars apart is their emphasis on fostering genuine social interactions. With hosts providing drinks and creating a relaxed atmosphere, guests can comfortably engage in meaningful conversations without the pressure or superficiality that often comes with crowded bars. Home bars are particularly appealing to introverted individuals who typically find socializing challenging. The concept offers them a safe and welcoming space. It is because of this emphasis on creating a comfortable environment for strangers to connect that many attendees do in fact come alone, as noted by Xiaohongshu user 我他马超高冷 (Wo Ta Ma Chao Gao Leng).

For these young adults in China, home bars have also quickly become the preferred alternative to clubbing, offering a fun, yet more relaxing, way to socialize. These gatherings foster a much more intimate and comfortable setting, far from the not only loud, but also impersonal, club scene. A DJ going by the name of Esta remarked on Xiaohongshu that he’s “tired of the sleazy songs at the club” and now enjoys curating playlists at his own home bar, while also offering open decks to his guests, making the experience more inviting and enjoyable.

As more people seek out personalized, intimate social experiences, the home bar trend is expected to continue growing. While the trend is particularly prevalent in Shanghai, it has also gained popularity in other cities like Beijing, Shenzhen, Dongguan, and Hangzhou. Though the trend is still young, these domestic gatherings seem set to become a staple in the country’s constantly evolving social scene.

Banner image via OnePlace Homebar.