TikTok is known for its rapidly changing trends, but one that has recently captured global attention is Chinese Street Fashion. Videos showcasing impeccably dressed individuals in cities like Shanghai and Beijing have flooded the platform, drawing viewers in with their unique style and confident presentation. These short, often slow-motion clips, typically set to music like Blackpink’s “How You Like That,” display a diverse range of aesthetics, from minimalist all-black ensembles with sharp tailoring to bold streetwear looks featuring brands like Balenciaga, Misbhv, and Vetements. The subjects in these videos confidently meet the camera’s gaze, creating an engaging experience for viewers worldwide.
The immense popularity of these videos, evidenced by millions of likes, has sparked curiosity about their creation. Accounts like @eromei, @sh1ryinyin, @curioussyd, and @marstruck have become go-to sources for this content, leading viewers to question the authenticity and logistics behind these seemingly candid captures. Many wonder who is filming and why the subjects appear so aware of the camera. Anna Mei of @eromei clarified to Vogue that the footage is curated from Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, sourced from videographers who frequent fashion-forward locations in China.
These videographers strategically position themselves in areas known for style-conscious crowds, such as Taikoo Li in Chengdu, Sanlitun in Beijing, and Xintiandi in Shanghai. BuzzFeed reports suggest that many individuals featured are indeed models and influencers, indicating a level of pre-planning in these productions. However, this orchestrated nature does not diminish the captivating appeal of Chinese street fashion.
The trend’s impact extends beyond viewership, inspiring creators globally to emulate the distinctive style. Jeffery Dang (@jeffery.dang) and Nava Rose (the.navarose) are among those who have created videos directly inspired by Chinese street fashion. Both express admiration for the confidence and versatility embodied in the looks, particularly drawn to the way individuals showcase unique taste through diverse styles, ranging from basic pieces to cultural garments and statement items. Dang emphasizes, “Chinese street style inspires me [because of] the versatility and confidence that each person has… Each person has their own original and specific taste in clothing.”
Rose notes the transformative influence of these videos on her personal style perspective. “The Chinese street-style videos opened my eyes and made me look at fashion in a new light,” she explains, emphasizing how they encouraged her to experiment more boldly with her wardrobe. This inspiration translates into incorporating bolder choices like a yellow tartan set, leather button-ups with edgy harnesses, and vibrant flame-print bell-bottoms. Dang, influenced by the silhouettes prevalent in Chinese street fashion, focuses on incorporating unique layering and all-black palettes into his style. He also points out the prevalence of face masks as a fashion accessory, a practical yet stylish element increasingly adopted globally. The rise of Chinese street fashion on platforms like TikTok signals a significant shift in global fashion trends, highlighting individuality, confidence, and a unique approach to style that resonates with a worldwide audience.
