In the heart of Xi'an, the “Neon Robe (霓裳萬象)” First National Hanfu Design Competition concluded on January 20, 2025, marking a significant milestone for both fashion and cultural heritage. This inaugural event, a collaboration of over 120 universities and independent designers from around the world, has brought Hanfu—the traditional Chinese attire—into the limelight, encouraging not only a revival of ancient garments but also innovation in their design.
The competition, held at Xi’an Engineering University, highlighted the vibrant academic and creative energy that has been brewing in Chinese fashion institutions. A staggering 1,100 entries were submitted, showcasing a global mix of talent from prestigious universities like Tsinghua University, Central Academy of Fine Arts, and Jiangnan University, as well as international participation from the University of Southampton and Ewha Womans University.
At the heart of this movement is a strong desire to merge traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities. Wang Zizhu (王梓竹) from Tsinghua University earned the top honor with her exquisite design, "Ruo Yi Yì Zi Yan" (罗衣曳紫烟), which combines delicate historical elements with contemporary flair. This piece, which reflects the profound cultural symbols woven into Hanfu, marks a culmination of technical skill and a deep understanding of the garment’s symbolic significance. Wang’s creation won the prestigious gold award, setting a high bar for future designers in this field.
Xi’an, an ancient city that was once the capital of China’s most prosperous dynasties, is at the epicenter of this cultural renaissance. As the birthplace of Han Chinese civilization, Xi’an has long been the perfect setting to celebrate the unique beauty of Hanfu. For centuries, the city has witnessed a vibrant fusion of traditional culture and modern life, making it an ideal stage for this competition.
Hanfu, with its rich history and intricate details, has witnessed a resurgence, especially among young people, who are now embracing these garments not only for ceremonial occasions but also as part of their daily lives. This competition reflects a growing trend of intertwining culture, identity, and fashion. The event itself was not just a competition, but a forum for discussing how to further elevate Hanfu's place in both contemporary fashion and traditional Chinese culture.
The competition’s design categories ranged from drawing techniques and color application to the integration of cultural motifs, craftsmanship, and functionality. These criteria aimed to challenge designers to create garments that are not only beautiful and innovative but also grounded in the cultural significance of Hanfu. For instance, Wang Zizhu's winning design showcases a delicate interplay of ancient symbolism, modern textile techniques, and a sophisticated color palette, earning her the top prize.
One of the most striking aspects of the competition was the depth of academic and professional engagement. The event brought together top experts from China’s prestigious universities and industry leaders, all united by their passion for preserving and innovating Hanfu. These industry experts, including professors from Tsinghua University, Beijing Fashion Institute, and the Chinese Fashion Designers Association, lent their expertise in the competition’s evaluation process. The final round, which was held on January 19, included assessments of practicality, aesthetic appeal, and cultural relevance.
But the competition is not just a celebration of design; it represents a platform for a deeper conversation about Hanfu’s cultural significance. During the Hanfu Cultural Industry Forum held on the same day, experts and professors engaged in lively discussions on the future of Hanfu, its role in contemporary fashion, and how the garment can be integrated into the modern textile industry. Discussions also touched on how to incorporate Hanfu into the broader scope of cultural tourism, further solidifying its place in the cultural and economic landscape.
With 60 finalists selected and expert guidance provided throughout the process, the competition created a unique blend of tradition and innovation. The “Neon Robe” competition serves as a testament to how traditional garments can still thrive in modern society, opening doors for designers to merge the aesthetics of the past with the needs of the present.
Looking forward, the Hanfu design community in China is on the verge of entering a new era, one where these traditional garments become an even more integral part of daily life. The increasing interest in Hanfu as a form of self-expression, especially among young people, indicates that these garments are no longer confined to cultural performances or historical reenactments. Instead, Hanfu is making a statement in the modern world—highlighting China’s rich heritage while allowing for new interpretations and creativity.
As we look to the future, the “Neon Robe” competition is likely to become a cornerstone of Hanfu culture, inspiring more collaborations between academia, designers, and the textile industry. This growing trend is not just about fashion but about cultural identity and pride, creating a new space for innovation and tradition to coexist harmoniously.
