Students' hanfu designs to debut at Ningbo Fashion Festival

Children display a collection of hanfu outfits designed by students at the Zhejiang Fashion Institute of Technology. [Photo/Ningbo Daily] 

A collection of children's hanfu outfits created by students at the Zhejiang Fashion Institute of Technology will be showcased at the upcoming Ningbo Fashion Festival, which will kick off on Oct 19 in Ningbo, Zhejiang province.

Titled "Sea and Sky, Chinese Elegance", the collection features 60 sets of children's hanfu outfits. The outfits were independently designed and made by students at the college.

"The students replaced the traditional patterns that can been seen on most hanfu outfits, like plum blossoms and peonies, with elements featuring traditional Chinese culture, such as Dunhuang murals, tai chi, Chinese calligraphy, and porcelain. Animal patterns such as tigers, koi fish, and cranes are embroidered on the outfits," said Hu Zhenhua, associate professor at the college, "The design showcases Ningbo's geographical and cultural characteristics. The Hongbang tailoring techniques, which originate in Ningbo, are also utilized in the production of the clothes. 

Hu said that the shape of the clothes has been modified for convenience, with a one-piece design that is easy to wear and take off. A layer of cotton lining has also been added to the clothes to protect children's sensitive skin.

The Ningbo Fashion Festival is an annual event held in Ningbo. The event provides a platform for both established and emerging designers to present their work to a wider audience.