French creative designer Luc Buono has been drawing inspiration from the unique East-meets-West vibe in China's eastern metropolis of Shanghai for over a decade.
Buono has been inspired by fashion since childhood. He first came to China as a teacher in 1998 after working in fashion in the U.S and Europe, at a time when China's fashion industry was just emerging.
"It was quite a strong impression, because at that time it was mainly about production, it was, at the time, really the biggest thing was the 'made-in-China'. I was actually teaching Chinese to understand how to create," he said.
He says he's witnessed profound transformations on China's fashion scene.
"I saw the evolution from 'Made in China' to 'Create in China', which is amazing to see that, to see all those companies, all those brands want to be creative in China and proud to be Chinese creative thinker. What makes me stay was that at the time the market was exceptional in China, the growth and the industry was really booming. It gave me a lot of opportunity to express myself and to develop my creativity with them and to also grow with the growth of the Chinese industry," Buono said.
In 2018, he launched his own consultancy, collaborating with different brands as China's fashion industry reached maturity.
"In cities like Shanghai, or Beijing, or other first-tier cities, we see really fashion is very interesting. I know a designer from other country, western country who come to Shanghai now to study the market, to learn things and to look at people on the streets. That's very a different way of dressing up now," Buono said.
The interaction between Chinese and French fashion is seen as enriching both cultures.
"I feel very inspired by French designers' ability to weave their culture and traditions into their designs. What's more, they have got a global perspective which has also brought us much inspiration," said Sandra Zhou, founder of Byarn, a brand focusing on cashmere.
Luc Buono says he feels enriched by his experiences in China, and the most rewarding aspect of his life in China are the deep cultural insights he has gained, with a lot more awaiting him to unlock.
Interaction between Chinese, French fashions stirs creative imagination: French designer
