In Xinjiang, traditions still maintain that women can't leave the house freely and dress as they wish. Even wearing a white gown to a wedding is unacceptable to many. Samira Arkin, who owns a bridal shop in Kashgar, wants women to embrace their independence and openly express their wish to be beautiful.

This is one of many stories in CGTN's exclusive documentary "Beyond the Mountains: Life in Xinjiang." Watch the full documentary here.