Fashion, culture and technology came together in a high-profile National Day initiative that showcased PolyU’s strengths in creative education and innovation. The University was once again invited by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) to design and produce bespoke Neo-Chinese attire for the wife of the Chief Executive, eight female bureau secretaries and the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office for National Day celebrations.

Created by a team from PolyU’s School of Fashion and Textiles (SFT), the ten tailor-made outfits were worn at the National Day flag-raising ceremony and reception on 1 October, marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The collection combined traditional Chinese aesthetics with contemporary fashion design, showcasing Hong Kong’s strengths in creativity, innovation and cultural exchange.

Led by Professor Jin Lam, Associate Professor of SFT, the project brought together students and alumni in a unique learning experience that integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into the design process. By analysing the personal styles and colour preferences of the wearers, the team used AI-generated insights to inform design concepts, which were then refined through professional expertise and creative judgement. The approach demonstrated how technology can enhance, rather than replace, human-centred design.

The garments incorporated traditional Chinese elements such as diagonal-front closures, Mandarin collars and traditional Chinese frog fastenings, reinterpreted through modern silhouettes and tailoring. Combining cultural heritage with contemporary elegance, the designs reflected both the enduring appeal of Chinese attire and the individuality of each wearer.

The project also highlighted PolyU’s commitment to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship. Ms Tsang On-ting, alumna of SFT and founder of Gnastiy.com, designed Bauhinia brooches using three-dimensional printing technology. The accessories added a distinctive fashion-tech dimension to the ensemble while showcasing the innovative capabilities of PolyU graduates.

Dr Lam Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU, said the invitation recognised the University’s educational achievements and professional expertise, while providing an opportunity to contribute to the promotion of Chinese culture. He noted that the project successfully brought together Chinese cultural elements, fashion creativity and AI, demonstrating the creativity and cultural appreciation of Hong Kong’s younger generation.

He added, “Next year marks two important milestones for PolyU: the University’s 90th anniversary and the 70th anniversary of SFT. PolyU will continue to leverage the power of higher education to nurture fashion design talents with professional excellence, innovative thinking and a strong sense of responsibility, enabling them to tell the stories of China and Hong Kong, while contributing to national development and Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability.”

The initiative reflects PolyU’s ongoing efforts to integrate culture, design and technology through education and interdisciplinary collaboration, while contributing to Hong Kong’s development as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.

Prof. Lam (1st from right) suggested that the initiative offered students valuable real-world experience by bringing together cultural heritage, technological innovation and fashion design. Through participation in the project, students gained professional skills while deepening their understanding of Chinese culture and national development.