I guess I am the last person who should be shooting, thinking, and writing about fashion, especially dressed head-to-toe in Uniqlo basics. But after attending the 2023 Autumn/Winter Shanghai Fashion Week, I realized that almost everyone is shooting from the hip when it comes to fashion. As a professional photographer, I couldn’t resist documenting through my lens.

Below are some highlights of the event, as snapped by yours truly.

1. Nomanoman

My first show was Nomanoman, a young local brand with an avant-garde edge. It wasn’t what I expected, but the frantic 20-minute parade of models fine-tuning their walks was captivating.

What really caught my eye was the audience — a mix of buyers and trendsetters trying to look effortlessly chic.

2. Hemu

The Hemu showcase was next, featuring a fresh and approachable Chinese fashion brand with a take on Tibetan chic.

This show exemplified the trend of young Chinese nationals exploring rare and exotic corners of their political borders, as well as the rich cultural diversity within the country.

3. Fabric Porn

The standout show for me came from Fabric Porn, complete with nostalgia and whimsical cultural hooks.

Overall, the show provided an unconventional and sensational combination of Chinese and Western aesthetics.

4. Social Work

My final show was Social Work at Labelhood, which featured primarily Western models — a rarity during the week. A fashion designer told me, “I booked my models too late; this was all that was left.”

It’s a departure from the trend of using white models to make a brand look premium or imported, signaling a shift away from the West as a trendsetter in the industry.

Ultimately, my experience at Shanghai Fashion Week challenged my preconceptions about the industry and left me with a newfound appreciation for the diverse perspectives and innovative approaches showcased on the runway.

All images via the author