In a candid conversation, Rita Lin Fangyu shares her journey of integrating cultural heritage with contemporary fashion, creating a signature style that reflects the beauty of Chinese traditions while embracing modern trends. From her unique approach to fashion to her aspirations for cross-cultural impact, Rita reveals her perspective on beauty, creativity, and the art of balance.
Born and raised in an environment rich in culture, Rita finds inspiration in the timeless elegance of Hanfu. “I like to integrate details of Hanfu, such as embroidery, patterns, or colour matching, into daily wear, so that traditional culture can be expressed in a modern way,” she shares. This thoughtful blend of heritage and innovation is central to her design philosophy. Tradition, for her, is more than an aesthetic; it’s a guiding principle. “Tradition teaches me to pay attention to details and texture. Therefore, my fashion attitude leans towards classics and elegance rather than blindly following trends,” she adds.
For Rita, beauty goes beyond physical appearance. “Beauty is the understanding and display of cultural connotations. Clothing is not just decoration but also an expression of values,” she explains. Her approach to photo shoots reflects this belief, as she meticulously plans every aspect. “I design the theme, select costumes and props, and communicate with the team about the atmosphere and story to ensure that every detail fully expresses the theme,” she notes, emphasising the importance of collaboration in her creative process.
Influence from designers and artists further enriches Rita’s work. “I particularly appreciate traditional Chinese craft masters and designers who combine Eastern and Western cultures. They allow me to see the possibilities of innovation,” she says, pointing to the fusion of global and local inspirations as a key driver in her designs. Even her social media presence is carefully curated to align with her vision. “Styling needs to be adjusted according to the audience’s preferences and platform style, ensuring that each post is professional and consistent,” she explains, demonstrating her strategic approach to engaging with her followers.
Travel, for Rita, is another source of creative energy. “Travel has broadened my horizons. The clothing and colour combinations of different cultures have inspired me to create,” she says. Her collaborations with other creators, including dancers and photographers from Taiwan and Mainland China, have also deepened her understanding of cultural diversity. “Cross-cultural exchanges have made my creations more in-depth,” she reflects.
Despite her dedication to traditional elements, Rita knows the value of balance. “I incorporate traditional elements into popular fashion to create works that are both unique and acceptable to the public,” she explains, striking a harmony between innovation and accessibility. Looking ahead, she dreams of making a broader impact. “I hope that through the promotion of ancient fashion, more people can feel the beauty of Chinese culture and see it as a bridge for transnational cultural exchanges,” Rita concludes, underscoring her commitment to showcasing the timeless elegance of her heritage in a modern light.
