Shanghai Fashion Week 2026: Latest Trends & Runway Highlights

Shanghai Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2026 is underway, showcasing a blend of established and emerging designers as China’s fashion market continues to recover. The event, running from March 25 to April 1, features both international brands and homegrown talent, with a focus on creative identity and global positioning, according to Vogue.

This season’s collections demonstrate a “momentum and evolution” within the Chinese fashion industry, as stated by designer Feng Chen Wang ahead of her brand’s 10th-anniversary show. Wang emphasized that Shanghai is central to this growth, representing both a culmination of past achievements and a new beginning for her namesake brand.

Key Trends from the Runways

Early reports from Shanghai Fashion Week highlight several key trends for the Fall 2026 season. Vogue reports a strong presence of animal prints and textures, encouraging designers to embrace a bold, all-in approach rather than retro interpretations.

Candied colors, particularly pinks and reds, are also making a statement, appearing in collections from Susan Fang and Shuting Qiu. Designers like Oude Waag and Xu Zhi are incorporating fringe to add depth and texture to their designs, while the skirt suit is being re-imagined as a versatile piece that can be both sexy, serious, and simple.

Emerging and Established Designers

Shanghai Fashion Week is providing a platform for both established and emerging designers. Jacques Wei, known for blending Western tailoring with Mandarin sensibility, is scheduled to showcase a collection on Friday. HPLY, a Shanghai-based brand, opened the week with its runway debut, signaling a strategic focus on building cultural relevance alongside commercial success.

The event also features international participation, with brands like Adidas, EENK, Climate Project, and designers from France, Italy, and Vietnam contributing to the diverse range of collections. Platforms like Tube Showroom, Not Showroom, and Labelhood continue to serve as important hubs for connecting global buyers with independent designers.

Focus on Sustainability and Technology

According to Hypebae, Shanghai Fashion Week SS26, which preceded the current Fall/Winter event, showcased a growing exploration of the relationship between style, technology, culture, and sustainability. FORDARE’s collection, described as a blend of Ashley Williams and GCDS aesthetics, exemplified this trend with its layered lingerie, manga-inspired graphics, and sporty silhouettes.

Markgong, Shushu/Tong, and Oude Waag were also highlighted as standout collections during the Spring/Summer 2026 season. The event continues to attract attention from global players and local talent alike, solidifying Shanghai’s position as a significant force in the international fashion landscape.