On October 17, 2024, four foreign fashion designers, including Rick Owens, Michele Lamy, Hannah Rose Dalton, and Steven Raj Bhaskaran, were denied entry to Beijing's Forbidden City due to their 'dark and strange' attire, which officials deemed disrespectful to Chinese culture. The designers, associated with the avant-garde brand Fecal Matter, were asked to change their clothes and remove their makeup but refused, labeling the incident 'humiliating and dehumanizing.' This event has sparked a broader discussion about cultural etiquette and respect for traditions in fashion. An editorial in Beijing Daily supported the decision, emphasizing the importance of honoring Chinese history and cultural values. Many social media users echoed this sentiment, arguing that visitors to culturally significant sites should adhere to established norms of respect. This incident highlights the ongoing tension between modern fashion expressions and traditional cultural expectations, raising questions about how designers can navigate these complex dynamics. [e42d92e8] Dawang, a New York-based clothing brand founded by Daisy Wang Jingwen in 2018, is also navigating this cultural landscape by merging traditional Chinese fashion with contemporary design. Wang, a 29-year-old designer from Qingdao, launched her first collection in March 2019, featuring a black qipao, a traditional Chinese dress. Since then, Dawang has expanded its offerings to include versatile clothing items such as reversible tops and menswear, introduced in 2022. Wang emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity in fashion, aiming to empower younger generations to express themselves through modern interpretations of traditional attire. The brand's approach highlights a thoughtful blend of aesthetics that respects cultural heritage while appealing to modern sensibilities. [84dc03f9]