Silk Road inspires one of Beijing's premier fashion galas

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One of Beijing's premier galas, "Beijing Fashion Night" kicked off the China Instyle Expo over the weekend. With the theme "Silk Road", homegrown designers showcased their creative designs. Meanwhile, Paris-based designer Irakli Nasidze made his China debut.

The ground-breaking fashion show displayed how different designers are fusing traditional Chinese aesthetics into haute couture.

"Beijing Fashion Night" kicked off the China Instyle Expo. / Fashion Beijing Photo

Five Chinese designers, Zeng Fengfei, Chu Yan, Xiong Ying, Qing Wanyu and Hu Sheguang, presented looks inspired by the Silk Road. Silk and exquisite embroidery dominated the runway.

Handout Photo from Fashion Beijing

The runway show also marked designer Irakli Nasidze's debut in China.

The Georgian couturier said that he's greatly inspired by the diverse cultures along the ancient Silk Road.

He revealed that: "What attracts me to work with Fashion Beijing is that is not like a fashion week. And I felt a strong connection with the theme. I was born in Georgia, which also lies on the ancient Silk Road. So for this collection, I've used wool and silk, to create a simple poetic and elegant look."

Handout Photo from Fashion Beijing

Apart from collections of veteran designers, another highlight of the night is a special showcase of batik creative design works.

The project allows batik folk artists to work with designers to put a modern twist on the traditional craft.

"You can't say that things with traditional Chinese characteristics look old, as there is also something fashionable about them. It's a great challenge for us designers to combine Chinese elements in fashion, and make it work," veteran Chinese fashion designer Zeng Fengfei shared with CGTN.

With several parallel events including exhibitions, runway shows, and a design competition, the 2018 Beijing Instyle Expo inspires people to focus on culture and spirit, instead of just the material aspects of things.