Ethnic appreciation inspires stylish designs

To bring Bouyei clothing into the modern era, Wei has also designed patterns to be used on the uniforms of flight attendants, organized a Bouyei fashion show for students, and his team is presenting a new wedding series from this month to Spring Festival.

He also teaches indigo dyeing at colleges and conducts trainings in rural areas, and has been invited onto TV programs multiple times.

"My ideal is to make more people understand this traditional craft and culture, and through my designs make indigo-dyed products more popular in daily life," he said.

Luo Cheng, a member of Wei's studio, said Wei is very meticulous and serious. "He is methodical in his work. He personally oversees everything and is not very tolerant of mistakes," he said.

"Many people said they began to learn about Bouyei through our Wutuwusheng brand. We hope to further promote the culture of the Bouyei and bring this local cultural brand to a larger stage," Luo said.

Liu Boqian contributed to this story.

Contact the writers at chenmeiling@chinadaily.com.cn