[60 Years] From Bulaji to Bikini - The Evolution of Fashion

1949-1965: Cadre uniforms and "bulaji" dresses

After the founding of the People's Republic of China, a new fashion in daily dress emerged under the new political system. Sun Yat-sen's uniform, ordinary cadre uniforms and other revolutionary uniforms took the place of long gowns and cheongsams. Because of China's good relationship with the former Soviet Union, the country's fashion was greatly influenced by Russia. "Bulaji" dresses for young women and Lenin suits for men were popular among the masses. Many young ladies in the 1950s regarded wearing a "bulaji" as fashionable.

1966-1976: Unisex clothing

The year 1966 was an important time when people of all ages and social status in China, consciously or unconsciously, chose to wear military uniforms, or Mao suits, in green, grey and blue. With the progress of women's roles in society and family, it seemed quite natural that more women wore men's suits at the time.

1978-1980: Western fashion

China's reform and opening-up policies introduced western fashion styles into the country. The Japanese film "Pursue" (or "Kimi yo funme no kawa o watare"), which was shown at the time in China, popularized the heroine's dress style, which was to many in China, not just brightly-colored, but also sleevelessly beautiful and sexy.

1980-1989: The era of suits

The State Council called for the development of the national economy, and the fashion industry saw a big boost in the years after September, 1986. State leaders and government officials started wearing western-style suits.

1990-2000: Versatile women's dresses

A great variety of fashion styles have appeared since the 1990s. With the prevalence of suit dresses, sundresses, miniskirts and A-line skirts, China ushered in an era of diversified dress.

2000-now: Original designs

Chinese fashion has started to enter an age of originality reflecting a stronger sense of personality. Bikinis instead of traditional swimsuits are easily found at beaches across the nation. Wearing underwear as outer clothes has become popular. At this stage, Chinese elements have started to influence the global fashion industry.