Pakistan-China Fashion Fusion will spectacularly exemplify the integration of cultures and the commercialization of the world market.
Picture a runway that extends beyond a ballroom; a runway that stretches through time. This was the Badaling section of the Great Wall of China – an experience that will take a while to forget. We showcased the contemporary styled outfits in the themed international friendship on the very stones that made the foundation of the Great Wall. This was also not just a fashion show. It was the first-ever Pakistan-China Fashion show which is integrating with culture and commerce in the first of its kind Pakistan-China commerce. The sheer spectacle of the Pakistan-China Fashion Fusion on the Great Wall set a new cultural benchmark.
The Pakistan Embassy in Beijing in collaboration with the China International Cultural Communication Center (CICCC) first transformed The Great Wall into a silk and embroidered fashion show. For one, special, and unforgettable night, history and modernity met in a truly runway manner. Models walked the Great Wall in a time-traversing fashion, celebrating the rich and profound relationship Pakistan and China share with embroidered dresses. The scale of the Pakistan-China Fashion Fusion on the Great Wall was immense.
Engaging with the intricately connected artistic visions, several prominent Pakistani designers produced remarkable works. Leading Pakistani designer Maheen Khan partnered with Moazzam Abbasi, Ayesha Tariq, Rizwanullah, and Zain Hashmi, who the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting described as “having showcased work of Pakistani heritage with a gentle touch of Chinese aesthetics.”
What is a fusion collection? The designers showed us. Their creations, richly adorned with radiant colors, and flowing, elegant silhouettes Mughal design and fine craftsmanship. Chinese calligraphy and textural references were apparent, and Mughal elements were also present. The cultures were a most obvious source of inspiration for the work, and there was no Pakistani influence in the pieces showcased in China. This creative exchange is the essence of the Pakistan-China Fashion Fusion on the Great Wall.
The attention garnered was in part due to the significance of the location and collection. The high-ranking Chinese officials in attendance from media, business, and the diplomatic corps, as well as a close circle of friends, highlighted the importance of this cultural exchange on an international level.
Audience members appreciated Mr Adnan Ansari from Riwayat for his thoroughness and engaging approach.
What stands out most is how the show was presented and executed without the expectation of making a profit. While addressing the audience, Khalil Hashmi, Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, highlighted the importance of the event by stating, “We have entered a new phase of the Silk Road – a bridge of fabric, art and friendship.”
The Ambassador’s description of the ‘commercial fusion’ of Pakistani and Chinese designs showcased the “natural synergy between Pakistani creative expression and the Chinese market.” This commercial potential is a key driver for the Pakistan-China Fashion Fusion on the Great Wall.
Given the importance of the Great Wall, one wonders, why hold it at Badaling, Pakistan’s “border of friendship?” Perhaps I was supposed to think it was friendship at first sight. Each of the 60 years of friendship was represented by one of the crosses. The first Pakistani dignitary was to cross to Badaling… to friendship. The symbolism behind the location reinforced the message of the Pakistan-China Fashion Fusion on the Great Wall.
In the same spirit of cooperation, Mr. Long Yuxiang, Chairman of the CICCC, articulated that “could travel to Pakistan” misplaying the show was a great “cultural showcase.” The spoke of “cultural and people-to-people exchanges” and “the China-Pakistan All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.” Pakistan was a natural fit along with China to this culture of desert sands. The Pakistan-China Fashion Fusion on the Great Wall perfectly encapsulates this partnership.
The bilateral exhibition included Ms. Liang Suyun’s collection, exemplifying the talents of Chinese designers, and another showcase of jewelry by China-based Pakistani designer, Aqeel Chaudhary. This entire range collaboration illustrated how creative partnerships are reciprocal. The Pakistan-China Fashion Fusion on the Great Wall was truly a collaborative effort.
This occasion symbolizes yet another successful instance of Pakistani culture being integrated with diplomacy and, in particular, the Great Wall of China. Here, we showcase the artistic side of the diplomatic slogan “friendship.” This is testament to the limitless potential the two nations can achieve in the fashion industry, solidifying the importance of the Pakistan-China Fashion Fusion on the Great Wall.
