Shanghai Fashion Week showcases emerging talent amid challenges

Shanghai Fashion Week (SHFW) is set to begin on March 26 and will run until March 31. This season focuses on Autumn/Winter 2025 and comes at a challenging time for China's economy. Consumer spending has decreased significantly, hitting historic lows recently. Despite these economic troubles, SHFW continues to be an important event in the global fashion calendar. Along with cities like Copenhagen, Seoul, and Tokyo, Shanghai is becoming a key location for fashion. The event showcases a mix of independent brands, many led by younger designers from the millennial and Gen Z generations. The schedule for the week is divided into two main parts. There are larger shows organized by SHFW in Xintiandi, a popular shopping and entertainment area. There is also a segment called Labelhood, which focuses on smaller, innovative brands based in The Bund, Shanghai’s historic waterfront. Among the notable participants is Comme Moi, founded by the celebrated model Lü Yan, who recently marked ten years in business. Other emerging designers include Mark Gong and Shushu/Tong. Some designers plan to present their work at off-calendar shows in various locations around the city, adding variety to the event. This season also features standout shows from established designers like Jacques Wei and Samuel Guì Yang.