Flanked by floor-to-ceiling glass and a giant brass shelf, two long rows of seats were set up to create a runway, barely one meter wide, in the ballroom foyer on the 4th floor of the InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun. This is where Chinese-Dutch designer Hu Sheguang's 2023 haute couture collection was launched on Friday.

Sporting masks made of silver and black lace, models, all wearing colorful tall ponytails, strutted down the narrow runway, affording spectators an intimate view of some 150 garments from the couturier's latest creations.

Known for his bold and sometimes controversial designs, the critically acclaimed designer has dressed Dutch royals and many celebrities.

"Fashion is all about innovation and breaking boundaries," said Hu at the Beijing show's press conference.