A passion for dressing beautiful people

EVEN if the dancers did not move, Mystical Steppes: Along the Silk Road would still have been a visual treat: the costumes were simply dazzling.  

Each of the dancers had nine or 10 changes of costume, with matching hats, shoes and accessories, to reflect the colourful cultures of Xinjiang's various minority ethnic groups.  

Costume designer Xierenguli Abudukadeer, 32, said the costumes were specially made for the show in Malaysia.  

“The pieces are exceptionally intricate, and we have invested a large sum in the costumes to complement the performance,” she said.  

Fabulous costumes: Xierenguli showing some of her creations specially tailored for 'Mystical Steppes: Along the Silk Road'.

The soft-spoken Xierenguli, who joined the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar two years ago, is a much sought-after costume designer and has been in the fashion industry for more than 10 years.  

However, her fashion sense was inculcated much earlier as her father is a fashion designer who is recognised throughout China.  

On why she chose to specialise in stage costumes, she said: “I like to see beautiful people, and especially enjoy dressing them up elaborately.”  

The costumes, said to cost at least RMB1,000 (about RM450) each, are well designed and feature fine embroidery.  

Glittery beads and sequins, flowing feathers and dangling tassels all help to create a sight to behold, scene after scene. The rainbow hues on fluid materials also lend a mystical aura.  

“The designs are based on the various ethnic groups' traditional costumes,” Xierenguli explained.