Shanghai Fashion Week set to electrify the city

Shanghai Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2026 is set to open on March 25, with events unfolding across districts including Huangpu, Jing'an, and Pudong New Area.

The season will deliver a citywide fashion experience, with presentations and events staged at key venues such as Xintiandi, Yongyuan Road, and Yandang Road.

0 1 What to watch on the runway

The opening show, presented by local brand HPLY, is built around the theme of "fairy tales for grown-ups", featuring distinctive silhouettes and luxurious fabrics. The closing show, by EP Yaying, will spotlight contemporary Chinese aesthetics. From March 25, EP Yaying will also unveil its new collection to global buyers at the AW2026 MODE Shanghai Fashion Trade Show.

As a grand finale, Maison Margiela will stage the global debut of its AW2026 collection on April 1, followed by a special exhibition from April 2 to 6. According to organizers, the exhibition will bring together the brand's timeless classics and avant-garde creations, highlighting its craftsmanship and artistic heritage.

Building on its strong track record of helping brands translate runway debuts into retail opportunities, the Xintiandi runway will see continued growth in international participation. Emerging Asian labels such as Vietnam's Lsoul and White Ant, along with South Korea's YCH, will appear alongside international brands including Italy's Stivanano, France's Marie Elie Paris, and the United States' Maison Amory Rin Label, all seeking new growth opportunities.

Chinese independent design remains central to Shanghai Fashion Week. The Xintiandi runway will feature influential independent designer brands such as Feng Chen Wang and Susan Fang. Brands including Hemu and Suncun will present modern interpretations of traditional Chinese culture, while Aura Fenggy and Moution will explore the integration of fashion and technology.

0 2 Brand events and business buzz

Several international events will also take place during the season. Adidas Originals Open Haus will run from March 26 to 29 on Yongfu Road, showcasing the "Anfu" and "Changle" shoes. A Fabrique x Vera Wang pop-up will be held at HKRI Taikoo Hui from March 26. In addition, the season will feature a major commemorative event marking Apple's 50th anniversary.

The AW2026 MODE Shanghai Fashion Trade Show will open on March 25 at Crystal Bridge, an emerging landmark in Changning district. In collaboration with showrooms such as DFO and Alter, the trade show will provide a platform for brand presentation and industry networking, with buyers from Italy's Antonioli and France's Printemps Paris in attendance.

03 Fashion moves into the city

Shanghai Fashion Weekend will take place on April 6 in the Yongyuan Road area, with trend releases focused on everyday scenarios such as sports, commuting, and travel. International visitors will also benefit from a more convenient shopping environment and instant tax refunds.

Meanwhile, the 2026 Shanghai Xintiandi Fashion Festival will open on April 11 and bring fashion closer to everyday city life through a more integrated neighborhood format. Across Xintiandi, merchants will offer exclusive perks to visitors who present their show tickets.

Scan to see the official schedule.

Sources: chinadaily.com.cn, Shanghai Observer, Shanghai Fashion Week