There is no better way to understand a foreign market than submersing yourself in the culture.

Case in point: the CFDA and our on-the-ground Chinese partner Suntchi brought designers Ariel and Shimon Ovadia and Nicole Colovos to China during Shanghai Fashion Week. The designers showcased their latest collections at the Ontimeshow trade show, took meetings with local buyers, and learned more about the business from expert manufacturers and distributors. They were also able to capitalize on intimate conversations with local fashion industry VIPs to build a deeper understanding of the Chinese consumer, their spending habits, and trend forecasting.

“My first trip to China was nothing like I imagined,” said Ariel Ovadia of Ovadia & Sons. “Besides being rich with culture, thoughtfulness and great energy, it’s clear that China is a world leader in fashion and technology. It’s especially important to really understand the consumer and competitive landscape in order to launch your brand there successfully.”

Brother and co-founder Shimon Ovadia added, “Visiting China gave us a clearer understanding of the market there. Some clothes that work in the US don’t necessarily translate there, and that’s also true for brand visuals and size specs. We learned a lot just by seeing what people on the streets are wearing.”

In the evenings, the designers were treated to traditional Chinese dinners – from vegetarian tasting menus to hot pots. But it was the sunrise trips to Fu Xing Park that offered the most unique experience for them.

“During my trip I realized how important it is to build a network around your brand and choose connections that help your brand fit into their individual fashion culture – which is very modern and forward,” noted Nicole Colovos of Colovos.