In 2025, the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region celebrates its 70th anniversary. This far-western frontier is home to over 14 ethnic groups, including Uygur, Kazakh, and Kyrgyz communities, each weaving unique traditions into the region's cultural tapestry.
At the heart of this vibrant scene is Guyay, a Kyrgyz model from the Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture who first captivated audiences as a contracted model at Milan Fashion Week. Her fusion of modern silhouettes and ethnic motifs turned heads on one of the world's biggest runways.
Yet it was her return home that truly redefined the narrative. Drawing on childhood memories of growing up in a yurt and listening to the epic Manas sung by her grandmother, Guyay launched the Xiji Fashion Show in her hometown. She invited villagers to walk the runway, transforming rural plants and ethnic musical instruments into stage elements to spotlight intangible cultural heritage.
“We wanted to break away from traditional formats and show that heritage can thrive in new spaces,” says Guyay.
Her innovative runway turned a simple courtyard into a dynamic stage where vibrant costumes met live melodies, creating an immersive cultural experience. Beyond fashion, the project underscores the power of community-driven initiatives and sustainable creativity.
As the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region charts its next chapters, young changemakers like Guyay are proving that bridging tradition with innovation can spark fresh dialogues across cultures—on and off the runway.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
