In the ever-evolving fashion world, Professor Li Wei from Tsinghua University has spent over 40 years on a singular mission: to design a national dress that captures the essence of Chinese culture and aesthetics. Her latest collection of 30 exquisite gowns, drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese elements, debuted at Paris Fashion Week last September, where it captivated audiences worldwide.

Li Wei's journey began in the 1980s when China's fashion industry was still in its infancy. After three years of rigorous preparation, she was admitted to the first undergraduate class of the Department of Textile and Fashion Design at The Academy of Arts & Design, Tsinghua University (former The Central Academy of Arts & Design). Influenced by renowned artists like Wu Guanzhong, she deepened her understanding of artistic creation and solidified her belief in "Art Serving the Nation."

A pivotal moment came in 1985 when Li Wei assisted in the exhibition of a renowned designer's retrospective at the China Art Museum. This experience broadened her horizons and sparked a bold idea: to create China's own luxury products by infusing traditional Chinese culture into clothing design and bringing Eastern aesthetics to the global stage.

One of her most notable projects was designing academic gowns for Tsinghua University's academicians. Inspired by the formal attire worn by academicians in France, Li Wei spent two years creating two sets of gowns that combine traditional Chinese elements with modern design. The gowns retain the stand-collar style of Zhongshan suits and incorporate Western tailoring techniques, with intricate embroidery of the official flowers of Tsinghua—the wisteria—adding a touch of traditional elegance.

Two sets of gowns for Tsinghua University's academicians

Li Wei’s profound commitment to cultural heritage is not only reflected in her designs but also her scholarly endeavors. She has authored several books, including the comprehensive volume "The Complete Collection of Chinese Arts and Crafts: Techniques of Embroidery, Lace, Knitting, and Stage Costume," and published over 20 academic papers. Her work has garnered prestigious accolades, such as the "APEC Leaders' Garment Design" honor and the title of "China's Top Ten Fashion Designers."

The scene of Li Wei's high fashion show

Beyond academia, Li Wei has held four solo exhibitions in France between 1995 and 2005, each met with high acclaim from the French media. Her work "New Chinese Dress" is permanently housed and displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in the UK, a testament to her enduring impact on the global fashion stage.

Li Wei's design work "Man's Suit" has been exhibited in the British Victoria and Albert Museum and collected as a permanent exhibit.

In addition to her artistic achievements, Li Wei is deeply committed to preserving and promoting intangible cultural heritage. She has spent years conducting field research in rural and ethnic minority areas, working closely with artisans to revive and innovate traditional crafts. Her recent collection of "Song Dynasty-inspired" digital fashion, showcased at the Song Culture Innovation Art Exhibition, has been permanently collected by the China National Silk Museum as a digital artifact.

Li Wei works with artisans.

As Li Wei continues her journey, she remains driven by a profound sense of responsibility. "As designers from China, it is our mission to cultivate our unique creative DNA, to champion Chinese culture through a global lens, and to propel Eastern aesthetics onto the world stage." she says. Her work is not just about creating clothing; it is about telling the story of China's rich cultural heritage and bringing Eastern aesthetics to the forefront of the world stage.