Loolayy presents their latest collection at the Centre Culturel de Chine in Paris, a breathtaking display of Chinese haute couture bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. The event, titled “Shang Yi · Mi Sheng,” showcased the magnificent closing show, “Liu Li · LOOLAYY,” which paid homage to the ancient Dunhuang culture. This remarkable collection not only captivated the audience but also solidified its place in the annals of cross-cultural fashion.
The “Liu Li · LOOLAYY” collection takes inspiration from the ever-elusive concept of time. It masterfully captures the intricate patterns and colour connotations rooted in Dunhuang culture, transforming them into silk fabric that seemingly dances through the ages. Rhinestone embellishments add an enchanting touch, reminiscent of the play of light on mountains and water, breathing life into the centuries-old cultural motifs.
Dunhuang, a name that resonates with history, is a melting pot of diverse cultures where ancient China, India, Greece, and Islamic civilizations converged. It’s a treasure trove of art, home to murals and sculptures dating from the 4th to the 11th century. Often referred to as the “art museum of the Eastern world,” Dunhuang culture has evolved over millennia, preserving the richness of history while embracing the winds of change.
Weaving Cultural Threads
At the heart of “Liu Li · LOOLAYY” is a commitment to celebrating traditional Chinese elements and spiritual cores, using fashion as a medium to express the cultural artistry that resonates with Chinese women. According to Zhang Xiaoqi, CEO and Creative Director of Beijing Xingguang SOMEZEAM International Garments Co. Ltd., the brand’s ethos revolves around “new aesthetics, new oriental, new service, new connections.” “Liu Li · LOOLAYY” seeks to epitomise the modern urban woman as “happiness, splendour, confidence, and wisdom.”
Crafting Tradition with Innovation
This season, “Liu Li · LOOLAYY” explored the opulent beauty of traditional Chinese ceremonial attire while infusing it with modern sensibilities. The collection showcased Chinese millennial intangible cultural heritage crafts such as Ping embroidery, coiled gold work, and seed embroidery. These age-old techniques were seamlessly integrated into clothing design, preserving the attire’s intrinsic texture while elevating it to become art.
The collection incorporated cultural elements like Buddha’s hand lotus, twining patterns, and Dunhuang Crescent Spring, enriching the brand’s design language and infusing it with profound, ancient Chinese culture.
Embracing Cultural Wealth and Romance
In the words of “Liu Li · LOOLAYY,” the collection aimed to “interpret the wealth and romance of women with the beauty of Dunhuang” and “demonstrate the brand’s finesse and delicacy with traditional culture.” This philosophy reflects not only the brand’s relentless pursuit of fashion and aesthetics but also its profound understanding of human emotions and social values.
