Models take to the runway to show off latest Tibetan fashion trends
It’s common for fashion shows to head to major cities around the world such as Milan, Paris or London, but it’s not often we see events like this come to the remote regions of Northwest China.
However, that is exactly what happened when the 2018 Bodhpa fashion show kicked off in Hezuo, a small city in the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Gansu Province, on September 26.
For the show’s second year, 30 models took to the catwalk to display dazzling clothing that combines both modern and traditional elements of Tibetan culture.
According to the organizers, the show’s goal is to help promote traditional Tibetan culture by giving people more opportunity to appreciate its beauty.
“I hope more people get to see the new trends that are taking place within Tibetan fashion. Tibetan clothing are not changeless costumes like some people may think,” Dolma Tsering, an advisor for the event, told the Global Times in an email interview.
“I want to show people that we have our own fashions, our own models and our own new trends.”
Traditional Tibetan clothing was added to China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2008. Since then, more and more designers have focused on new ways to display the beauty of Tibetan culture and art through fashion.
“This show was a wonderful chance for people from different regions to appreciate Tibetan forms of art,” Dolma explained.
In addition to the fashion show, a seminar focusing on the past and future of traditional Tibetan clothing was also held.
“There is a lot to learn about our clothing. Each region has its own unique colors and styles. If you pay attention, one can see the differences when it comes to both head wear and dresses,” Dolma said.
Dolma admitted that there are still a few areas in which the event can be improved.
“The show is not as professional as other international shows, as our requirements are not so strict. But we are looking to improve things for the show next year,” Dolma explained.