(ANN/THE CHINA DAILY) – Last month, the pasture grass of Maduo county in Guoluo Tibetan autonomous prefecture, Northwest China’s Qinghai province, transformed into a natural runway.
Over 40 Tibetan models showcased more than 100 pieces of clothing primarily made of yak wool during a spectacular fashion show.
The event, featuring yak wool as the main fabric, was initiated by the Shanghai-based fashion brand Sandriver. This show marks the latest collaboration between Shanghai and Guoluo, highlighting the unique and sustainable fashion possibilities of yak wool.
Guo Xiuling, the founder of Sandriver, aims to elevate yak wool into stylish fashion pieces, empowering local nomads by providing job opportunities and income close to their homes. This initiative not only supports the local economy but also preserves and promotes traditional Tibetan fashion.
Located in the heartland of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, Guoluo Tibetan autonomous prefecture has an average altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level. Yak plays a symbolic and critical role in local residents’ daily life and production.
Yak wool has long been an essential material used in making yurts and clothing in Tibetan ethnic areas.
During the down season, a yak produces an average of no more than 300 grammes of down. After cleaning and post-processing, the output of yak wool is significantly reduced.
Thus the yak wool is of high quality as well as high economic and cultural value.
