We recently connected with Bonan Li and have shared our conversation below.

Bonan, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is my sustainable fashion design initiative, a project that deeply aligns with my personal values and vision for the fashion industry. This project was inspired by a desire to create clothing that respects the environment and promotes longevity. Fashion, traditionally driven by rapid cycles and waste, poses a significant environmental challenge, which I wanted to address head-on by rethinking every aspect of design and production.
This project is meaningful because it extends beyond fashion into the realm of sustainable development, aligning with broader goals of environmental responsibility. It has taught me that fashion can be a medium for change, challenging the industry’s status quo while empowering wearers to make conscious choices. Through this project, I aim to inspire both industry and consumers to embrace a slower, more mindful approach to design and consumption.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Bonan Li, an independent fashion designer with a passion for pushing creative boundaries in sustainable fashion. My journey began with formal training at the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology and Parsons The New School, where I developed a unique approach to design that transcends conventional fashion norms. Through my work, I explore connections between human identity, body consciousness, and nature, crafting garments that are not just clothing but dynamic, contemplative spaces.

My brand offers sustainable, zero-waste garments that emphasize craftsmanship and innovation. I focus on low-waste techniques and deadstock fabric use, transforming surplus materials into versatile, seasonless pieces. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also addresses the industry’s issue of overproduction by creating adaptable designs that last.

What sets my work apart is the integration of artisanal techniques with a commitment to inclusivity and environmental respect, creating products that invite wearers to engage meaningfully with fashion. I’m particularly proud of launching my brand and capsule collection, No. 0, which embodies this philosophy. For potential clients and followers, I want them to know that each piece is crafted with intention, merging aesthetic innovation with sustainable practices to redefine the relationship between fashion and the natural world.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

To best support artists and creatives, society can prioritize funding and accessible resources, such as grants, residencies, and public platforms that promote creative work without financial barriers. Education systems should also value the arts, integrating creative disciplines from a young age to encourage innovation and self-expression. Furthermore, fostering collaborations between industries and creative communities can help creatives access new opportunities and amplify their impact. Building an inclusive, appreciative culture around the arts empowers artists to contribute uniquely to society, strengthening a thriving creative ecosystem.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Earlier in my creative journey, I wish I’d known more about funding opportunities, mentorship programs, and collaborative networks in the fashion and creative industries. Resources like grants, design incubators, and industry meetups can provide crucial support, whether through financial aid or guidance from experienced professionals. Access to sustainable material suppliers and technical workshops would also have been invaluable for refining sustainable practices and low-waste design techniques from the start.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://bonanli.com
• Instagram: @bo_nan_li

Image Credits

Photo by Hao Zeng