Shenzhen-based fashion designer Zhao Huizhou, founder of the brand HUI, made history Saturday by becoming the first Chinese fashion designer to receive the prestigious Tao Award. She was honored with the 2025 award for Innovative Creativity in Fashion during the annual TaoModa Awards in Taormina, Italy.

The jury praised the “refined elegance” of Zhao’s creations and her “continuous research into materials and shapes,” noting that her works “tell stories of contemporary femininity that are both delicate and powerful.”

“Zhao is a designer with a keen creative sensibility, capable of combining tradition and modernity, Eastern culture and Western taste, in a unique and recognizable stylistic language,” the award speech said. The award further commended her “ability to interpret fashion as a cultural and artistic expression and for her contribution to the dialogue between different worlds and sensibilities.”

Zhao Huizhou (C) takes a photo with an embroiderer (L) from Guizhou Province and Italian journalist Beatrice Spediacci at the award ceremony Saturday in Taormina, Italy. Courtesy of HUI

Since founding her high-end women’s wear brand HUI in 2007, Zhao has steadfastly centered her approach on “re-designing intangible cultural heritage.” Rather than simply reproducing traditional elements, she translates Chinese intangible cultural heritage into contemporary fashion expressions that embody universal aesthetic values.

“The perfect fusion of Chinese aesthetic and Western tailoring techniques brings intangible cultural heritage to life with an international fashion language,” Zhao explained, emphasizing that her goal is not just a style blend but a profound expansion of cultural influence.

This commitment has been a hallmark of her career. Zhao has showcased her collections 16 times at Milan Fashion Week and consistently used the platform to preserve and revitalize China’s cultural legacy, such as the Miao Embroidery of Guizhou Province. Her collections, frequently centered on traditional Chinese culture, have solidified her role as a cultural ambassador introducing ancient artistry to a modern, global audience.

Presented by the TaoModa Awards, the Tao Award is selected by a panel of judges composed of Italy’s most authoritative journalists and professionals. It aims to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions in fields such as fashion, arts, science, journalism, environmental sustainability, television, entrepreneurship, solidarity, dance, film, and entertainment.