ICICLE

ICICLE is a Chinese contemporary fashion brand founded in Shanghai in 1997 by Ye Shouzeng and Shawna Tao. It makes timeless ready-to-wear and accessories for women and men from natural fibres under its "Made in Earth" philosophy.

What is ICICLE?

ICICLE, known in Chinese as 之禾 (Zhī Hé, "the sprouting seed"), is a contemporary ready-to-wear brand from Shanghai. Its stated mission is to connect people and nature, and it draws on Chinese culture, tradition and philosophy to create functional, timeless everyday clothing.

History

The brand was founded in Shanghai in 1997 by husband and wife Ye Shouzeng and Shawna Tao. It operates as a vertically integrated company, and in 2013 it established a creative centre in Paris that includes a couture-level workshop and an international design team.

Products and positioning

ICICLE's signature concept is Made in Earth, expressed through natural materials including cashmere, linen, wool, silk and cotton. Collections include:

• Women's coats, trench coats, jackets, dresses, knitwear, skirts and trousers
• Men's coats, jackets, knitwear, shirts and trousers
• Bags, shoes, belts and scarves

Distribution

The brand runs a network of more than 200 stores, with flagships in Beijing, Shanghai and Paris, and sells online through regional e-commerce sites.

Why it matters

ICICLE is one of the clearest examples of a Chinese fashion house building an international premium position around natural materials and a design centre in Paris, rather than around logos or trend cycles.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded ICICLE?

ICICLE was founded in Shanghai in 1997 by husband and wife Ye Shouzeng and Shawna Tao.

What is ICICLE known for?

ICICLE is known for timeless womenswear and menswear made from natural fibres such as cashmere, linen and silk, under its "Made in Earth" philosophy.

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