The shared vision of Shenzhen and Milan to foster closer ties in fashion, culture, and art, as embodied at the ongoing Shenzhen & Milan Lifestyle Week (SMLW), has captivated expat residents in Shenzhen.

Expats from the U.K., the Republic of Moldova, Russia, and other countries embarked on a three-day experiential tour of the Eachway Creative Industrial Park in Dalang Fashion Town, the Longhua subvenue of the ongoing lifestyle week, at the invitation of the Longhua International Cooperation Center (LICC). The lifestyle week runs from March 19 to 22.

 A model walk down the runway of Italian brand AKEP at Eachway Creative Industrial Park in Longhua District on March 21. Photos by Wang Haolan

The tour’s itinerary included on-site visits to several key events: the SMLW opening ceremony at the China-Guanlan Original Printmaking Base, the final and awards ceremony of the 13th Dalang Cup Women’s Wear Competition, the fashion show by the Italian fashion brand AKEP, the SMLW fashion showroom, and several art exhibitions.

Additionally, participants enjoyed a fashion-themed Chinese calligraphy experience held at the LICC.

“There is a lot to look forward to [at SMLW],” British designer Sophine Halliwell said during Tuesday’s opening ceremony. “I am definitely excited to see all of these exhibitions while meeting with all of these designers coming to Shenzhen from Italy to exchange their creative ideas and creative ways.”

Halliwell’s expectations were fulfilled by AKEP’s runway show Thursday.

“This is the first show I have watched today,” said Halliwell. “I am looking forward to seeing more shows and more exhibits over the next few days.”

Moldovan content creator Gabriela Cojocaru, who also serves as a Shenzhen Global Communication Ambassador, was delighted to witness the show and engage in an exchange of ideas on fashion with AKEP designers.

Expats watch the AKEP fashion show on March 21.

“I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Italy, and it truly is a beautiful country. So the instant impression the show gave me was simply reminiscent of the vibrant vibes of Italy,” she shared. “Experiencing how a single fashion show can serve as a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures brought me great pleasure. I hope that Shenzhen and Longhua can host more fashion events like this in the future.”