Fashion, culture and diplomacy converged at the launch of the Pakistan-China fashion show in Badaling on the Great Wall.
Guests gather at the Badaling section of the Great Wall of China for the first Pakistan-China fashion show. Photo: Handout
Against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Badaling section of the Great Wall of China, fashion, culture and diplomacy converged in spectacular harmony as the Pakistan Embassy in Beijing, in collaboration with the China International Center for Cultural Communication (CICCC), hosted the first Pakistan-China Fashion Show.
The historic Stone Path, a symbol of unity, strength and cultural resilience, was transformed into a dynamic catwalk show, marking the first-ever fashion event of its kind at the iconic venue. The evening brought together a blend of heritage, innovation and cross-cultural creativity, celebrating the evolving aesthetic synergy between Pakistan and China.
Renowned Pakistani designers Maheen Khan, Moazzam Abbasi, Ayesha Tariq, Rizwaullah and Zain Hashmi have unveiled bespoke collections designed to reflect a fusion of Pakistani craftsmanship and Chinese artistic influences. The clothes celebrated tradition while embracing modern silhouettes, designed to resonate with an international audience.
Chinese models wear creations by Pakistani designers at the first Pakistan-China fashion show at the Great Wall of China. Photo: Handout
Aqeel Chaudhary, a China-based Pakistani designer, also presented a shimmering collection of intricately designed jewelry, each a tribute to the enduring elegance of oriental adornment with a contemporary twist.
Adding an extra dimension to the show was renowned Chinese designer Liang Suyun, whose collection perfectly complemented the Pakistani pieces, reinforcing the narrative of a shared aesthetic and mutual appreciation between the two nations.
The entire event was curated by Adnan Ansari of Riwayat, a name synonymous with fashion diplomacy, who brought together diverse creative voices under one theme: ‘fashion as a bridge between cultures’.
Pakistani fashion takes center stage on the Great Wall, as Chinese models parade in designer collections from across Pakistan. Photo: Handout
Present at the event were senior Chinese officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders and media personalities, all of whom witnessed the blossoming relationship between the fashion worlds of Pakistan and China.
In his speech, Ambassador Khalil Hashmi highlighted the symbolic power of the venue, saying “the majestic Badaling Great Wall provided an ideal venue to celebrate the living spirit of the Silk Road connection, which now manifests itself as a modern bridge of fabric, art and friendship.”
He highlighted the special significance of the spectacle as it coincided with the 60th anniversary of the first Pakistani dignitary’s visit to the Great Wall, making the event both a cultural celebration and a diplomatic milestone. Highlighting the fusion-driven creativity on display, he highlighted how collaboration creates “new business bridges for a shared future.”
Chinese models showcase stunning designs by Pakistani fashion designers at the first Pakistan-China fashion show held in the Badaling section of the Great Wall. Photo: document
Long Yuxiang, chairman of the CICCC, echoed the ambassador’s sentiments, calling the event “not only a great cultural exchange but also a vivid reflection of the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between China and Pakistan.”
He highlighted the need to explore the contemporary relevance of traditional aesthetics and looked forward to continuing collaboration with Pakistani partners to co-create fashion works that speak to both heritage and the future.
The evening ended not only with applause, but also with a renewed sense of creative purpose: a commitment to fashion as a means of diplomacy, storytelling, and cross-border collaboration.
