CGTN Infographic
Internet as a catalyst
The e-commerce platforms have played an indispensable role in developing the "China Chic" trend. Platforms, including JD.com and Taobao.com, have launched events like "China Chic Movement" and "Here Comes the China Chic" to promote Chinese designs.
"If there is no Taobao, many designers like me won't be known to the public as it's too expensive to open stores in shopping malls," Wu Wei, a designer who set up his online store back in college, told the media.
Nearly 50,000 designers started their online stores on Taobao in 2017, according to "China's Original Design Entrepreneurship and Consumption Report 2018" released by Taobao and CBNData.
How far will 'China Chic' go?
Models prepare backstage before the Li-Ning Fall/Winter 2018 Collection Fashion Show during 2018 New York Fashion Week at Skylight Modern in New York City, February 7, 2018. /VCG Photo
Along with the popularity of "China Chic" brands, originality remains something castigated. Even with the big market success, Li-Ning has been criticized for copying Balenciaga in some of its designs. Many say some brands piles up so-called Chinese elements and make some quick money in the name of "China Chic".
Against such a backdrop, whether the trend of "China Chic" is something enduring or just a flash in the pan has caused heated discussions in the online community.
ChinaSSPP.com, an influential website specialized in fashion information in China, conducted an interview asking some industry insiders "How far do you think 'China Chic' will go" back in March. Here are some selected answers.
