Catwalk: Pet clothing designer inspired by ancient Chinese beauties

Wu Qiuqiao sells up to a thousand pieces a month from her online store Chunfeng Daxiaoqiao

Last updated: August 24, 2020 | 09:41

AFP and Compiled by Christian Borbon, Senior Web Editor

2 MIN READ

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Changsha, China: Liu Liu is a fashion designer's dream model and muse - happy to spend hour upon hour being measured and dressed, and posing in tailored couture outfits and artistic designs. Liu Liu is also a cat.

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Her doting owner, Wu Qiuqiao, makes a living from designing miniature versions of traditional flowing Chinese gowns known as "hanfu" for cats and dogs that sell for up to 500 yuan ($70).

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After quitting her job as a copy editor last year, the 26-year-old works from her apartment in the central city of Changsha designing pet-sized dresses out of pastel-coloured chiffon and decorated with embroidery, beads, frills and motifs that she sells online.

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Liu Liu ably models the creations inspired by the historic costumes of the Han ethnic majority that are seeing a resurgence in popularity among young people - and now pet owners.

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"Some of my regulars may have already bought all the clothing in my store and occasionally ask me to introduce new designs," Wu said.

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Wu got the idea for making historic garb for pets after failing to find suitable styles for Liu Liu.

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And she clearly is not the only one who likes her furry companion dressed in something traditional.

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Wu sells up to a thousand pieces a month from her online store Chunfeng Daxiaoqiao and she regularly rolls out new designs to satisfy demand.

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"I think hanfu is a heritage of history, and is also very beautiful," Wu said.

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"(My business) can allow people who enjoy traditional culture, or young people who enjoy hanfu... to be able to adopt ideas they like through pet clothing."

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