China’s 8th Textile Heritage Conference unites tradition and innovation

chinadaily.com.cn2024-11-18 21:13

　　Models walk the runway during the ICH fashion show on Nov 14. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

　　The 8th China Textile Intangible Cultural Heritage Conference opened on Nov 15 in Xucun town, Haining county, Zhejiang province. The three-day event gathered inheritors of intangible cultural heritage (ICH), designers, entrepreneurs and scholars to discuss the role of traditional textile crafts in modern society and their cultural and economic value.

　　Sun Ruizhe, president of the China National Textile and Apparel Council, delivered a keynote speech emphasizing ICH's contribution to the national trends economy. "Guochao, or Chinese fashion trends, reinterpret traditional Chinese culture in contemporary contexts, expressing cultural confidence and echoing the spirit of the times," he said. He also highlighted the rapid growth of the Chinese fashion trend sector, with its market reaching 2.05 trillion yuan ($28.31 million) in 2023 and projected to exceed 3 trillion yuan by 2028.

　　Models walk the runway during the ICH fashion show on Nov 14. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

　　Qian Xiaoping, a national master of Song brocade weaving, shared her thoughts on innovation within traditional crafts. "Innovation spans appearance, texture, techniques, tools and applications," she said, addressing challenges such as a lack of skilled young talent, insufficient research funding and limited societal awareness of ICH. Qian stressed the need for long-term investment in talent and sustainable development strategies.

　　Zhao Yingming, vice-president of JD, explored the potential of integrating traditional culture with modern consumer trends. "For national brands to thrive, they must innovate in sales, pricing and product development to meet evolving market demands," he said, pointing to the competitive edge of culturally inspired products.

　　A highlight of the conference was the ICH fashion show on Nov 14, which showcased a seamless blend of traditional Chinese textile craftsmanship and contemporary design. Models brought the rich heritage of Chinese textiles to life, celebrating their timeless allure and modern relevance.

　　Models walk the runway during the ICH fashion show on Nov 14. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]