Who is Behind China's First Lady, Peng Liyuan's Impeccable Style
Peng Liyuan, China’s First Lady and wife of President Xi Jinping, has attracted international attention not only for her public presence but also for her distinctive sense of style.
Before becoming First Lady in 2013, she was already a celebrated folk singer in China.
Her wardrobe is known for its elegant, modern interpretations of traditional Chinese silhouettes, bringing Chinese design into the international spotlight.
Peng's style in 2013—her debut year as China’s First Lady—defined a new era of "fashion diplomacy" characterized by tailored, elegant silhouettes made exclusively by Chinese designers.
Peng has made Chinese design an important part of her public wardrobe, often favouring contemporary interpretations of traditional silhouettes.
Sharing some of my favourite looks of Peng. Personally, I think she looks best in clean, modern silhouettes — especially in solid colours or subtle, muted prints.
So who is behind China's First Lady, Peng Liyuan's impeccable style?
马可 Ma Ke × 彭丽媛 Peng Liyuan
The principal designer behind Peng Liyuan’s wardrobe is renowned Chinese fashion designer Ma Ke. She has designed clothing for Peng Liyuan for many years.
Their relationship began before Peng Liyuan became China’s First Lady. Peng was already an admirer of Ma Ke’s work. In 2013, Ma Ke’s designs attracted international attention when Peng Liyuan made her first overseas appearances as First Lady.
Ma Ke’s designs for Peng do not rely on extravagance or excessive decoration. Instead, they emphasise simplicity, elegance, comfort and modernity.
I have learned so much from Ma Ke — from her philosophy of building a brand, to her deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship and her dedication to preserving it over the years. I also admire how she has chosen to step away from the noise of the fashion industry and quietly pursue the work she believes in, with humility and perseverance.
* Images from the internet.
* References from various online sources: Vogue, Popsugar, South China Morning Post
