We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Zehui Ni about their original and creative Heritage Skirt design work. Zehui Ni is an award-winning creative designer, that makes our world a better place with their original heritage skirt works.
Zehui Ni ("ZN") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Hmong Silver Heritage Skirt. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
ZN : The design is inspired by two exquisite oriental techniques—mother-of-pearl inlays and Hmong silver craftsmanship. It captures the essence of these historic art forms and translates them into a wearable garment that bridges tradition and modernity. The Mamian (Horse-Faced) skirt, symbolizes power, strength, and cultural pride.
ZN : The focus was on reinterpreting heritage craftsmanship in a contemporary, wearable form. I wanted to create a garment that preserves the beauty and significance of traditional Hmong silverwork while making it accessible for everyday fashion, keeping cultural storytelling alive.
ZN : I plan to further develop this design into a collection, exploring different interpretations of Hmong silverwork and pearl inlays. I am also considering collaborations with artisans and brands that value heritage craftsmanship.
ZN : The entire design process took 12 months, from research and material exploration to development and refinement.
ZN : This design was a pursuit inspired by both Hmong silverwork and pearl inlays. It is a tribute to traditional craftsmanship and a reflection of my interest in preserving and modernizing heritage techniques.
ZN : Currently, the design is being produced independently, but I am open to collaborations with brands or companies that align with my vision of preserving and reinterpreting heritage craftsmanship.
ZN : As someone passionate about cultural heritage and craftsmanship, I wanted to create a piece that embodies tradition in a way that is wearable and relevant to contemporary fashion.
ZN : The historical Mamian skirts from the Qing and Ming Dynasties, along with traditional Hmong silverwork and pearl inlay techniques, played a significant role in shaping this design.
ZN : The target customers are individuals who appreciate heritage fashion, cultural craftsmanship, and statement pieces that tell a story. This includes collectors, fashion connoisseurs, and those interested in luxury and artisanal garments.
ZN : This design uniquely combines two historical techniques—pearl inlay and Hmong silverwork—in a modernized, wearable form. It is both a cultural artifact and a high-fashion statement piece that seamlessly bridges tradition and contemporary elegance.
ZN : The name Hmong Silver Heritage Skirt reflects the fusion of Hmong silver craftsmanship with the legacy of the Mamian skirt. It emphasizes the design’s cultural significance and artisanal foundation.
ZN : I used a combination of traditional craftsmanship techniques, fabric manipulation methods, and digital tools such as Adobe Illustrator for pattern development and Rhino for precise detailing.
ZN : The most unique aspect is the intricate use of woven techniques to mimic the effect of pearl inlay while integrating the delicate beauty of Hmong silverwork. The result is a visually stunning and deeply cultural garment.
ZN : I collaborated with skilled artisans specializing in Hmong silver crafting and traditional fabric weaving. Their expertise was invaluable in ensuring authenticity and precision in the details.
ZN : Technology played a role in pattern development and material experimentation. Digital modeling was used to refine the design, ensuring that the woven techniques accurately represented pearl inlay aesthetics.
ZN : Yes, extensive research was conducted on historical Mamian skirts, Hmong silver craftsmanship, and pearl inlay techniques. I studied antique pieces, cultural significance, and material properties to ensure an authentic yet innovative approach.
ZN : One major challenge was translating pearl inlay, which is typically a furniture technique, into a textile format. Another was preserving the integrity of Hmong silverwork while ensuring the garment remained wearable and durable.
ZN : I believed this design deserved recognition for its cultural significance and innovation. Showcasing it at an international level helps highlight the importance of preserving traditional craftsmanship in modern fashion.
ZN : I deepened my understanding of heritage techniques and learned how to innovate within traditional constraints. Working with artisans also taught me patience and the importance of cultural preservation in design.
ZN : This design is more than a garment—it’s a cultural bridge. It’s about honoring craftsmanship, preserving history, and giving new life to heritage fashion through contemporary expression.
