Swiss designers eye Chinese market with their unique style

A model shows a creation by both Swiss and Chinese designers during InnoFashion 2017 in Beijing.

During her recent visit, she went to fashion boutiques to look for opportunities here.

Julian Zigerli, founder of his namesake brand, finds fashion in the two countries different.

"The Swiss are very controlled about their look. Here it's a bit more fun, especially with the young people. They really express themselves."

The Chinese designers at the show were selected by Mary Ma, founder of Textile Library, a material design and research center in Hangzhou, for their innovation in design and fabrics.

"In traditional thinking, only silk and cotton are Chinese materials," says Ma.

"But today's China is much richer in raw materials and is strong in scientific and technological innovation. A country's fashion brands are inseparable from the creation and export of materials."

Chinese designer Octo Cheung showed dresses and coats inspired by Swiss and Chinese mountains.

Wang Changrong used reflective fabric that is worn by sanitation workers and reinvented it into futuristic garments.

Her clothes are now sold in Beijing, Shenzhen and Fuzhou, and she is planning to explore overseas markets.

"Swiss designs are practical and fashionable, while Chinese designers like to use design to create a certain ambience," she says.