With the pandemic forcing people to spend closer to home and heightened geopolitical tensions shining a spotlight on national identity, it’s no surprise that local brands are thriving in China. But how exactly are companies playing up their heritage? And what does ‘made in China’ now imply?

A decade after its inception, fashion label Shang Xia is beginning a new chapter by handing the reins over to Yang Li, an emerging domestic talent with a strong presence in the West. The goal is to win over Chinese locals who are quickly gaining spending power in the luxury market.

As affluent luxury consumers in China demand brands take steps to be accountable for their environmental impact, these companies are pivoting to flout their sustainable credentials. For legacy brand Erdos, this means diversifying the product offer and targeting new markets.

While rigid, traditional beauty standards still prevail in China, lingerie brand NEIWAI is challenging these ideals through its inclusive products and marketing. By promoting self-love and a wider definition of beauty, it’s building a dedicated following of socially aware consumers.