Meet Guo Pei, China's First Haute Couture Designer

In the West, Guo Pei is known for making the canary-yellow gown Rihanna wore at this year’s Met Gala in New York. Growing up during the Cultural Revolution and China’s opening up, Guo shares how the country’s past has shaped her designs and innovations. Photo/Video: Menglin Huang/The Wall Street Journal
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[@MoriahOdom]

I love how she saw positivity in all the humor made about her dress. Immediately a fan of her as a person

[@AslansAngel1]

I thought the same thing. How wonderful to have an outlook on life like that-- to be able to take criticism with humor and grace. My initial reaction would be "How rude!" and I'd get all defensive. Lord, help me to be so light-hearted and secure that my critics don't phase me.

[@AslansAngel1]

There are actually some people that don't take offense. That's a noble quality.

[@saveUyghurs]

Pure elegance! And for a woman nearing 50, she looks so young!

[@marilynnguyen6479]

SHE'S 50? I THOUGHT SHE WAS YOUNGER

[@TheFate23]

1967

[@SewingReport]

Sure hope I age as well as Guo Pei!!!!

[@reisbob7786]

Sewing Report gOOD GERD she's pretty

[@GRAVYRAQUEPz]

Asian don't raisin!

[@lokylong28]

The fashion industry has had different opinions towards Guo Pei's designs. She has been responsible for the appearance of many celebrities, either the Chinese or the Westerners, and the comments towards her art pieces are not always nice. Exaggerating, dramatic, ridiculous, these are the words they used to describe her fashion line, but in spite of being suppressed, Guo Pei has never surrender to them. That, I respect. Her spirit for the Chinese heritage, for art and for her country. And we should focus more on her excellent works, not the discriminations.

[@reihino7857]

I am sure she is not the only designer who creates exaggerating, dramatic and ridiculous outfits. Yes, she is being discriminated.

[@Loveisfun123]

Your mean Neighbor i like her designs, sure they are all those things, but I think she deserves more credit. When it comes down to it, she can master simplicity. I love her vision for fashion. And you can see there is Chinese heritage in her pieces on the runway during fashion weeks. I do think there is a stigma or some sort of mindset for those who think of haute couture, it’s only in Paris France. I think it’s absolutely genius she’s making these beautiful pieces and still putting a Chinese spin on it. I think it gives the pieces more meaning to them. Sort of like a “this can only be made in China, you can’t replicate this.”

[@pleaseenterusernamehere]

i barely know anything about fashion but isn't haute couture usually exaggerated and dramatic?

[@niveditabhalla7230]

The reason she is called exaggerating is because haute couture has always been considered a simple but very luxurious way of creating garments that fit to the consumers specifications. But in her case she makes designs that are inspired by the treditional Chinese garment which r definitely not mellow in any way. This makes her the odd peice in the pie also not to forget chinese designers r more prevelent in the fast fashion industry and couture looks down at it very badly. This is why people what never tried to understand her work and say its outlandish.

[@sincerelyeugene6638]

nivedita bhalla no, no, no, haute couture has no specific style. Haute couture, especially within the past two decades has been very dramatic, so, she really isn’t doing much that’s different.

[@MonumentToSin]

I stumbled upon Guo Pei's designs quite by accident several years ago and was positively mesmerized by her designs. Current Western designers have started to bore me, and it feels like they always produce the same thing or copy each other. But Guo Pei is boldly unique. I've always loved the intricacies of embroidery and the use of jewels and shapes. I admire that she has never tried to compete with Western fashion, but instead has paved the way for Eastern designers with an unapologetic pride in being Asian. Furthermore, while her designs are rooted in the Chinese culture, they are not simply reproducing historic clothing, but are reinventing them, or as I would describe as "looking into the past as one steps into the future." It's about time non-West fashion got the recognition it deserves.

[@Cybeldina]

*barf*

[@doney1996]

The world is a melting pot. Once we see the different cultural pieces. Our mindset will expand and we will appreciate a piece.

[@yumikipie]

Especially elie saab, zuhair murad, tony ward and the list goes on hahahaha

[@goudagirl6095]

Very well said!

[@aminasafina5904]

West is truly boring compared to the East.Eastern fashion is much more beautiful and creative compared to the West.

[@alexyarally]

I think what Guo Pei does is show a form of artisan craft that China can be proud to produce in their homeland. I think when most people think china they think mass production and not the ancient arts. I think we shouldn't compare too close western standards as much because she is putting an amount of effort into each design to create a conversation about tradition and craftsmanship in her homeland. If brands like Martin Margeila can get away with using plastics and found items in a haute couture collection. The glue gun is the least of any issues, I've seen videos where couture houses use plastics which is not within the traditional standards preset by the council.

[@MuhammadNunqiBaihaqi]

Alex Yarally

[@luv.mani2]

I could be wrong but I think they were just using the glue gun to melt the lace around the embroidery

[@arielsilva1793]

the hand-embroideries are amazing.

[@ariannasilva4462]

Ariel Silva Hello other Silva, nice to meet you here.

[@순두부찌개한개]

When my parent disagree with my decision to go on further my studies on graphic design, I'll show them this video. As a chinese, I can relate, I've got family members and relatives telling me having art major is not so much of a bright future. but I guess they don';t understand, I didn't do it so that I can earn big bucks, I do it because of my passion. I know I can't live off my passion (like they teased me) but I can't live without it. What is the point if i''m going to work until I die? I don't wanna be a working honey bee. I'd much rather do something I'm passionate about.

[@nemuihana]

That's a great idea! Sharing your passion with them and "making your proposal". I hope things are going / will go well for you!

[@vinarathakoune5228]

You got this. Depending on which route you go in through graphic design, you can definitely make a decent living. Enjoy what you do and your passion will reward you :)

[@p90xkp]

Keep going for your dreams! Be encouraged and never give up :)

[@mynguyen6995]

I suddenly thought of this song when I saw you comment kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKfJgZJqqpytn80

[@runway5338]

Maybe they’re worried that you’ll become “just another struggling artist.” Perhaps if you show that you can handle your finances well, they might back off a bit. But if you do manage to become wealthy from your career, they wouldn’t be opposing it lol 😅

[@chronicallyVirgo]

4:32 "...artisans have their own pride" That is sooo true. She completely understands artists/creative minds

[@yinaq2650]

when i first saw that dress in the met, i was so mesmerized by the amount of gold and silver thread used for that one gown. it was amazing and its getting harder to be amazed by things u see as u get older

[@jennytran7891]

her chinese pride is so beautiful, i love it

[@jennytran7891]

i believe it. it seems like many designers in the industry have a history of stealing ideas sadly.

[@evaaquarini1557]

the details are amazing... no wonder they took months to finished it

[@xwah5016]

Tbh Chinese goods r actually high quality they just ship those lower cheap ones to a,Erica for profit y k earn money and stuff, so people who can’t afford really expensive things buy those cheap ones that r made in China.

[@AstandsforAlex]

So much respect for this woman

[@RedMei126]

Her designs are breathtakingly beautiful and just exquisite.

[@kr3642]

go watch her runway show. It is absolute magic.

[@MrXXUknownXx]

Some of the most magical and beautiful designs i've ever seen. Toned down a bit, and you could wear it for prom/ball

[@AslansAngel1]

Truly magical. Those shoes, though! If I had to walk on those, the whole way down and back on the runway I'd be like, "Don't fall. Don't break an ankle. You're almost there. You can do this." LOL

[@nekyred]

Coz her labour is cheap

[@goudagirl6095]

There is NO ONE like Guo Pei when it comes to fashion. Even the mightiest fashion houses of NY, Paris & Italy can't compare. Her works blow everyone out of the water. I've been closely following fashion for 40 years, and there has never been clothing that has been both completely wearable and complete works of art like the items she creates. Even her simplest designs speak volumes. The big fashion houses would do well to pay attention.

[@naminelee1055]

For those who are going to read the comments, I warned you there are many negative people here. However, there are also positive comments. List of negative comments: 1. Everything made in China is bad. 2. Slave workers, hard labour with low income. 3. Glue gun ( -It is used for prototypes and mock ups, who wants to work months of hand work for a prototype dress?- Update: I've been interested in sewing these days, the mock ups are just as important as the final design) 4. Haute Cauture is only in France. 5. Racism. Those are some warnings for you, enjoy your day and ignore the haters. Edit: I made this comment 4 years ago, the comments aren't negative anymore. My opinions have also changed!

[@reihino7857]

Haute couture has certain rules and conditions, and very few designer brands actually are actually true haute couture brands. www.dressful.com/583/what-is-the-definition-of-haute-couture. Nonetheless, that does not take away from Guo Pei's ravishing work of art :).

[@Bright-It]

Design | Taste | Quality | More We do not need others to copy our lifestyle. Live your life. NOTE: Cancerous is so mean! Coco Chanel would be rolling her eyes now, if she was still here. Thanks God for true designers.

[@Call-me-Al]

I thought all fields created prototypes, mockups, and proof-of-concept versions for anything that takes a notable effort to produce in the full version... it's confusing people don't understand this happens for fashion and even at-home-sewing for anything that is new.

[@aminasafina5904]

Rei Hino The Haute Coutoure you're talking about is a trademarked label according to which you must have and an atelier in Paris 🤦‍♂️. To me haute couture is about clothes which take many hours of hard work and excellent craftsmanship to make, and France is not the only country which produces haute couture.Also some of the most luxurious natural fabrics like muslin and silk originated in Asia and these weaving and hand loom industries were nearly destroyed by European colonizers.Asian countries with their rich cultures and traditions also excel in haute coutoure, to me more so than Europe.

[@yin_xing]

@@aminasafina5904 sorry, but you are wrong

[@kalexander00]

She gave fashion a whole different meaning and perspective.

[@sammykeogh8318]

Kevin Perez Art *

[@gregdahlen4375]

how so?

[@jjk4891]

I love that she just didn't magically get the opportunity to design and make gowns. It's inspiring to see someone try hard to break through the harsh criticism of reality and achieve their dream!

[@21whichiswhich]

Wow! I love her designs.

[@sharkeisha2225]

I love how she is proud of her culture and she always shows her culture in every dress she makes !! You go girl you and your family of 500

[@skinnylegend0272]

I think Chinese designs are elegant and beautiful and from a young age I’ve loved Chinese culture and have always been really interested in it so seeing this was beautiful

[@Vongola10Cd]

Beautiful dresses, beautiful way of thinking behind them

[@xwah5016]

I heard about her in china. And she’s such an inspiration to me. As a Chinese my parents disapproves of my dreams to become a fashion designer. I really need to show this to my mom lol

[@officialndilhm.x1]

Rihanna did a fantastic job wearing her fashion, this designer deserves many awards in her life time 👌🏽

[@riverfreemartin286]

knowing how much my daughter loves red, her face would light up if i got her that seccind china bride dress fr christmas

[@earthmotherdragon4572]

I think she is the most talented designer in the world at the moment. She is a poet and artist and expresses this in her beautiful garments. Her shows brings tears to my eyes, so stunning. The intricate work and the otherworldly designs are touching you on an emotional level, they not just exquisitely made, they evoke something in you. She is soooo good. x

[@TheRealJedidah]

She is sooo beautiful INSIDE and OUT wow 😍😍

[@TsetsiStoyanova]

This woman is a force

[@ruth540]

I've been following her clothes, & especially her shoes, ever since I was a teen. I even did my art GCSE based on her!

[@alisharout13]

What? She's older than my mother!! 😮 Great genes!

[@SodaPopNRum]

She understands meme culture, she'll go far

[@AprilMartinChartrandMS]

I was just amazed and transported into a world that I have never seen. The ZEITGEIST level of Guo Pei's artistry and vision is other-worldly. Just amazing on every level possible. The detail, the hours of hand work to create these beautiful adornments is extra-ordinary. So Goad I went two days ago to see this vision at the Legion of Honor in San Francisco. Love how the works are thematically placed on the 1st floor's Salons. Enjoyed the bottom floor (main paid gallery area)... just a vision. Thank you for existing in our lifetime. A very deep Bow of respect for your humanity.

[@courteneycampbell2547]

Her designs r just 😍😍 the colours, the patterns it’s beautiful

[@prtc31]

love her work she is unique.

[@Jiggy009]

Respect for the creativity, respect for the other artisans working... truly inspirational ♥️

[@thesky4eva]

Wow I love her designs! I did not know she did Rihanna's dress!!! Also that Met dress is divine. Truly a work of art, absolutely exquisite.

[@jecco2011]

She is an artist , a Chinese artist with a beautiful heart and soul . 👍🏻🌺❤️

[@theinnocent6303]

That's no longer normal fashion, they are masterpieces. Work of art.

[@sunitafisher4758]

🌸 I love her designs, she has an amazing talent and impeccable taste

[@horrorpill]

I think the problem lies when some Chinese entrepreneurs create products with no interest in quality, focusing more on mass production, that people have long since believed anything made in China is either "cheap" or "fake". For a creative and ambitious Chinese designers like her and many others, who worked hard and produce quality clothing, it will be hard to get proper market acceptance because of the stigma.

[@churroscuro8624]

Youre implying that the stigma lies in the general consumer market in the west when general people can't even afford this stuff. When your market targets big money at that point its a matter of taste because now the price has to justify quality. Also thats kind of a racist and ignorant take. Chinese exports are cheap because its easy money, but products that sell within China, specifically fabrics and even non-designer, are of far higher quality and much cheaper than what you generally get in the west and i say that from experience lol

[@ItsSakuraKeiIRL]

What beautiful work ♡

[@keyu8055]

a great inspiration 👏🏼

[@helenmossmoss5375]

She is truly a unique lady and her team I could watch her video s all day long

[@ayaderi8160]

oh my god!!! I can't this is soooooooooo amazing!!!!! ♥♥♥♥♥♥

[@lindaadams9760]

I've been watching her fashion shows, and am now a fan !! Her creations are breath taking and beautiful. She is down to earth and proud of her heritage. :)

[@raidenmiyawaki]

👏👏👏 she and her team really works hard.. The gowns was beautiful..

[@pheebsbee1280]

I would love to know even more about her creations.

[@NM-ou9el]

I got goosebumps watching this. Thank you for posting this video :)

[@msd7782]

I love her work! I absolutely love that gown she designed for Rhianna.

[@MARYANNE269]

She is absolutely amazing ❤ Why am I just finding out about her .. I'm so glad though xx

[@Aasenzeng]

This is who I want to work for. As a Chinese, I eager to dig into my ancient culture.

[@flairrathod9570]

wow amazing person she is 😇

[@saigecade5830]

As someone who sews and loves fashion, I would absolutely love to meet her someday.

[@Hangug990]

I just love her designs!!

[@dulmaria.d]

I used to have an assumption that asian people learn how to deal with criticism in a different way we do. Guo Pei answering it 0:50 is the proof to me.

[@sophiabozok]

So much peace and harmony! Thank you for all your talent!🙏

[@aiseakonrote5381]

divine n majestic designs with such beautiful intricate detailed work....dedication & passion .

[@chimini4724]

that one gown for her goen collection in so many beautiful colors and bit of pink in it is so beautiful my eyes are bleeding

[@xochiltg.s.4935]

Such hard work! I love it!

[@lamoskgr]

That looks amazing

[@shuhuazhang3523]

Cultural heritage is the key to success in everything.

[@ohaimochi]

She in her late 40s in this video,, looks absolutely amazing!

[@lkmayhew9390]

Extraordinary work by everyone 👌

[@sarastone273]

I hope I have the honour of her designing my wedding dress!!!!

[@user-eu3op7or6v]

Wow 🤩 she’s so inspiring!

[@nenaduran24]

A talented chinese woman proud of her great country, bravo!!!!

[@atthismoment3006]

her work is Amazing it another level

[@just_cade]

She makes wearable clothes, of course, but first and foremost, she is an artist. Much like Alexander McQueen or John Galliano, she prioritizes the meaning and the statement over wearability, and she produces fantastic results. Critics will mention the lack of accessibility, but art like this is not for everyone, period.

[@reha4775]

She's wonderful!

[@christinawalker6356]

Rihanna's dress was stunning

[@readmydescription8240]

"I manage my team like a big family." (4:28) That's a BIG RED FLAGM

[@ziweiha5561]

So proud of you Guo Pei.

[@m.s.6586]

4:50 does this mean her artisans are not getting paid high wages? I hope they do! Heavens know these are some of the most interesting designs I have seen.

[@youcan_change_handle_3june_]

no

[@magstoyva2742]

Wouw it's beautiful

[@melelani9728]

Her work is amazing

[@2natree854]

Now that's beautiful couture 😍🤩💖

[@Asia-sk8lc]

Huh, did I hear that right!! Bone in 1967!! Beautiful!✌❤☺

[@yanli2962]

作为一个中国人，对于郭培所说的那几句话，我能深深的感觉她心里的爱国之情， 是她把我们中国的文化绣上了她的服装，让更多更多海外的人能够看到咱们中国的特色， 就凭这点，我想冲郭培小姐说声 好样的！！

[@ambbarbie]

wow she is stunning!

[@tinaloye2014]

5 seconds in and she's now my fav for life

[@90snebula]

I really like her she seems very nice and positive.

[@Mighty.Matcha.]

to me , when i look at a dress , i only see the design and the beauty of it , i don't see a label mark to where it came from or to whom it was designed by.I see only hardwork, style and concept.The passion is the same no matter where you come from, we all work hard for one thing, is to bring extravagance to the runway.

[@iamsomeone8266]

Guo inspires me with fashion

[@Bright-It]

Design | Taste | Quality | More We do not need others to copy our lifestyle. Live your life. NOTE: Cancerous is so mean! Coco Chanel would be rolling her eyes now, if she was still here. Thanks God for true designers.

[@joshuagoneda6286]

I like her design😍😍😍😍

[@bbwelii4485]

People saying that the dresses are ugly have no taste.

[@interplanetaryalyssaa]

A definite favorite

[@adrian123781]

she inspired me to change to fine arts instead of continuing to fashion design.

[@midwestmatcha]

I love how passionate she is about her design and job! Also, I feel bad for her when they told her to hide her Chinese nationality, because no one should be ashamed of who they are and where they are from.

[@Aurora-kq7bo]

She's Amazing

[@fortysomethingbadgirls2173]

Love her work!

[@jenines661]

I would like to see biographical movie of hers.

[@carlachang6338]

看的时候觉得好感动好骄傲😭

[@OAS15]

she speaks with so much grace and passion, and i love that she loves that we thought her dress was a pizza xD

[@tishsmiddy71]

Thank you 😊 for sharing ❤️

[@davidlawson5762]

you go girl

[@Shineynsparkles]

Her dresses stay on point

[@sant11207]

Amazing ! She's is

[@gregdahlen4375]

hadn't thought of kaleidoscopes for fashion inspiration. maybe other children's toys can also inspire fashion.

[@laura53ize]

She a sweet lady talented and humble I wish I can work with her.