Shaoxing Silver Coast Import and Export Co Ltd , https://www.silvercoastfabric.com
In April 1979, I was working as a reporter for Xinhua News Agency when I received an unusual notice from the foreign trade department. It informed me that Pierre Cardin, the renowned French fashion designer, was visiting China for the very first time. He was scheduled to host what they called a "View Meeting" at the National Palace of Culture in Beijing. The term "View Meeting" might sound odd today, but back then, it was quite specific. Three things defined it: first, there was a formal review process for attendees; second, everyone had to check in and provide their names; third, tickets could not be transferred. This event was strictly limited to officials and technical staff from the foreign trade and fashion sectors.
On that memorable day, Pierre Cardin walked onto a temporary T-shaped stage with eight French models and four Japanese ones. Accompanied by pop music and rhythmic steps, they strutted down the runway. I remember how strikingly different these tall, elegant women looked in their fitted skirts compared to the audience dressed uniformly in blue-gray workwear. When one blonde model paused mid-runway and dramatically opened her dress, the reaction from below was electric—like a tidal wave sweeping through the crowd. That moment encapsulated the cultural shock and excitement of seeing something entirely new.
By 1980, Cardin had decided to establish a modeling team in China. His goal was to prepare for his highly anticipated public fashion show in Beijing, planned for October 1981. The selection process was rigorous, and out of the roughly 20 members chosen, nearly all came from humble backgrounds—carpet sellers, fruit vendors, textile workers, and even street food vendors. Every evening, these individuals gathered for training, guided by two professional coaches sent from Paris. Many participants kept their involvement secret from family and employers, often using excuses like sick leave or work absences to attend rehearsals.
After months of intensive practice, the inaugural Chinese model team debuted in October 1981 at the Beijing Hotel. While technically open to the public, the majority of attendees were still insiders—officials, silk industry leaders, and other key figures. The performance was a resounding success. The following day, international media outlets splashed headlines about "China's first fashion show," creating an intriguing contrast with the sparse coverage in domestic press. With this, China’s first official modeling team was officially launched, and Pierre Cardin’s brand began dominating sales among China’s elite consumers.
Fast forward three decades, and today, China has evolved into a global powerhouse for high-end fashion consumption. You can now find a wide range of foreign brands easily accessible across the country. What started as a cultural experiment has transformed into a thriving market, making China an indispensable player in the global luxury fashion landscape.