The first phase of the China Leisure Wear Expo (CHCW) marked a significant milestone in the professional internationalization of China's apparel industry. From October 27 to 29, 2000, as the world was still celebrating the turn of the millennium, a new wave of excitement swept through Shaxi Town in Zhongshan, Guangdong. This small town in southern China became the center of attention as it hosted the 2000 China Leisure Wear Expo, drawing over 200,000 visitors from more than 20 countries and regions.
For the first time, brands from around the world—such as the U.S., UK, Japan, France, the Netherlands, and North Korea—showcased their casual wear collections on Chinese soil. Notable highlights included Zhang Zhaoda’s "Yoyo Nostalgia" collection, Liu Jiaqiang’s and Zhao Yanlun’s fashion shows, the introduction of iconic brands like Crocodile and Stegosaurus, and the "Top Ten Chinese Fashion Designers' Casual Wear Show." The event also featured the Sixth China "Model Star" Competition, marking a strong cultural impact on Shaxi.
The expo acted as a catalyst for the development of China’s casual wear industry. Within just one year, Shaxi saw the emergence of over 100 new garment enterprises, forming a comprehensive leisure apparel industry system. By 2001, there were nearly 480 textile and garment manufacturers, a large exhibition center, supporting machinery markets, several professional trading areas, and over 3,200 stores nationwide. The number of local casual wear brands grew to more than 60, with total sales reaching 5 billion yuan. Shaxi was officially recognized as the birthplace of casual wear, earning praise both domestically and internationally.
The second session of the service fair emphasized a clear theme: "Innovation, Strength, and Internationalization." It raised the scale, quality, and professionalism of the event, expanding its market influence. The fair was later named one of the "National Top Ten Fashion Expositions" by authoritative media. According to research by the China Chamber of Commerce, Shaxi accounted for 7% of the national casual wear market, securing the top spot in 2001. It was officially recognized as an important production base for casual wear in China.
The second service fair expanded further, featuring five major exhibition zones: Domestic Pavilion, International Pavilion, Hong Kong & Macao Pavilion, Fabric Pavilion, and Garment Machinery Pavilion. Over 20 countries participated, showcasing well-known global brands such as LEE, CK, and GAP, along with leading domestic names like Minsen, Septwolves, and Mark Zhang. This edition truly became a major gathering for both domestic and international casual wear brands.
Specialization has always been at the core of CHCW. The second service fair took a solid step forward in this direction, featuring events like the 7th China Model Star "Shaxi Leisure Cup," press conferences by renowned designers, fashion competitions, expert forums, and grand costume shows. These activities reflected the high level of professionalism and creativity of the event.
Internationalization remains the ultimate goal of CHCW. The third service fair made significant progress in this area. With modern exhibition management, the event partnered with agencies in Hong Kong, Macao, Europe, and the U.S., attracting 900 booths, 28% of which were international brands. At the opening party, famous French designer Marcel Malone, German designer Susanna Weaver, Swedish designer Mott Sapa Sae, and Chinese designers Zhang Zhaoda and Wu Xuewei presented their latest concepts, sparking creative exchanges across cultures.
This event opened the door for Chinese and international designers to collaborate, promoting China’s garment industry and helping more Chinese designers gain global recognition. In 2001, Shaxi was awarded the "Outstanding Contribution Award for Promoting the Development of China’s Casual Wear" and received the title of "China’s Casual Wear Town" from two major industry associations.
Overall, the first phase of CHCW successfully completed the process of professionalization and internationalization, setting a strong foundation for future growth.
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