If you learn Chinese online, your online Chinese teacher might surprise you by bringing in lessons on fashion as part of cultural understanding. After all, China is home to a booming domestic fashion industry with brands that increasingly shape their own style narratives. There are some well-known sportswear giants and urban designer labels, Chinese clothing brands have taken center stage in malls, on runways, and on social media.
At language schools like GoEast Mandarin, too, language study often connects with topics like consumer culture and everyday life in China. It’s a way to understand how people think and express themselves.
Among the most recognizable clothing brands in China today is Li-Ning. Founded by legendary Olympic gymnast Li Ning in 1990, the company started as a straightforward sportswear brand, offering gear for athletes and fans. But in the past decade, Li-Ning has undergone a powerful transformation—fusing street fashion with traditional Chinese aesthetics like calligraphy, red-and-gold patterns, and historical motifs. The brand has appeared in international fashion weeks and gained a loyal following among younger consumers who want both national identity and contemporary style.
Anta, another titan in Chinese sportswear, takes a more performance-driven approach. Founded in Fujian province, Anta has grown into one of the largest sports brands in China, especially after acquiring rights to Fila China and investing in winter sports gear. Anta clothes are widely seen during national events, school sports days, and in city gyms, making it a practical and patriotic choice. While it leans less into fashion-forward experimentation than Li-Ning, it has gained respect for quality and price balance.
For colder weather, Bosideng is a household name. Known for its high-quality down jackets, Bosideng began in the 1970s and was once considered old-fashioned. However, the brand rebranded itself in recent years, appearing in New York and Milan Fashion Weeks with sleeker, more elegant silhouettes and collaborations with foreign designers. Many urban professionals now consider Bosideng a solid option for staying warm with style, especially during China’s long, dry northern winters.
In addition to these major players, many younger brands are rising through the ranks, often focused on streetwear, eco-friendly materials, or minimalist cuts. Names like Peacebird, Metersbonwe, and Urban Revivo are frequently spotted in fashion districts and e-commerce platforms like Tmall and Xiaohongshu. These labels often target Gen Z and millennial consumers with fast cycles, bold campaigns, and collaborations with influencers.