Design

Prada’s Qixi Campaign Turns Shanghai Into a Love Story in Motion

Prada brings a heartfelt twist to Qixi, China’s Valentine’s Day, by merging fashion and folklore.

Por: Rubén Carrillo
The brand revisits the myth of two star-crossed lovers—one celestial, one mortal—separated by fate and reunited once a year / Photo Prada
The brand revisits the myth of two star-crossed lovers—one celestial, one mortal—separated by fate and reunited once a year / Photo Prada

Instead of relying solely on traditional campaigns, Prada transforms a classic legend into a cinematic and interactive journey.

 

The brand revisits the myth of two star-crossed lovers—one celestial, one mortal—separated by fate and reunited once a year.

 

But rather than telling it in an ancient setting, Prada relocates the romance to the vibrant city of Shanghai.

 

Chinese ambassadors Li Xian and Chen Haoyu lead this reimagined love story. Their journey unfolds across Shanghai’s most symbolic bridges.

 

The campaign’s film captures them wandering through seven bridges along Suzhou Creek, creating an elegant metaphor for connection.

 

Each structure symbolizes both separation and unity. They pass over the Zhejiang Road Bridge, Shanxi Road Bridge, and others. 

 

From the historic Waibaidu Bridge to the modern Yangpu Bridge, the scenery enhances the tale of fleeting love and persistent hope.

 

Prada stated these bridges serve as “silent thresholds,” emphasizing how deep connections can overcome any divide.

Chinese ambassadors Li Xian and Chen Haoyu lead this reimagined love story. Their journey unfolds across Shanghai’s most symbolic bridges / Phto Prada
Chinese ambassadors Li Xian and Chen Haoyu lead this reimagined love story. Their journey unfolds across Shanghai’s most symbolic bridges / Phto Prada

Urban Romance in Design

Fashion is never far from the storyline. Prada introduced its Qixi collection alongside the short film.

 

This includes the relaxed Dada bag and an aged-effect sneaker—each piece crafted to echo city life’s movement and romance.

 

These items blend classic silhouettes with retro touches, embodying a love that feels both nostalgic and modern.

 

Prada’s pieces, available online and in stores, reflect the kinetic energy of city living with a hint of romantic nostalgia.

Fashion is never far from the storyline. Prada introduced its Qixi collection alongside the short film / Photo Prada
Fashion is never far from the storyline. Prada introduced its Qixi collection alongside the short film / Photo Prada

Digital Bridges on Xiaohongshu

On top of the film, Prada’s story continues through Xiaohongshu, a social commerce platform loved by younger Chinese consumers.

 

Launching an immersive campaign titled “Encountering Bridges on Qixi”, the brand invites users to be part of the tale.

 

Participants can collect special postcards from over 10 Prada boutiques throughout China.

 

By exploring real city bridges and sharing their experiences online, users become co-authors of Prada’s modern fairytale.

 

Until August 29—Qixi’s official date—fans can post content for a chance to win exclusive gifts.

Launching an immersive campaign titled “Encountering Bridges on Qixi”, the brand invites users to be part of the tale / Photo Prada
Launching an immersive campaign titled “Encountering Bridges on Qixi”, the brand invites users to be part of the tale / Photo Prada

Rewards for Connection

At 8 p.m. on August 29, the ten most engaging posts will be selected as winners.

 

Each will receive a Prada 3D paper-craft photo album and a postcard set autographed by campaign stars Li and Chen.

 

This experience isn’t Prada’s first dive into Qixi innovation.

 

Last year, they teamed up with Baidu to develop “Prada Qixi Boyfriend Xian”, an AI chatbot inspired by actor Li Xian.

Fashion Meets Folklore

This campaign is more than a marketing strategy—it’s Prada’s poetic tribute to love and connection.

 

By incorporating elements of architecture, tradition, and tech, the brand delivers a multi-layered message.

 

According to Prada, the campaign “infuses this timeless festival with enduring vitality in the language of fashion.”

 

And with the use of storytelling and community interaction, Prada doesn’t just celebrate Qixi—they redefine it.

By incorporating elements of architecture, tradition, and tech, the brand delivers a multi-layered message / Photo Prada
By incorporating elements of architecture, tradition, and tech, the brand delivers a multi-layered message / Photo Prada

Q&A of Prada’s Qixi campaign

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