Introduction: From Traditional Craft to Social Media Sensation
The Chinese folding fan, once a symbol of classical elegance and artistry, is now making a surprising comeback—not through museum exhibitions or academic revivals, but on social media platforms like TikTok. What was once an ancient tool for cooling has become a global fashion statement, especially among Gen Z.
Through the lens of short videos and viral hashtags, folding fans have transformed into an expressive accessory, a piece of cultural identity, and a new form of self-presentation. This article explores how the folding fan has captured the imagination of young users worldwide and turned into a trending cultural icon.
How Social Media Sparked the Folding Fan Renaissance
TikTok has played a central role in the folding fan’s rise to fame. Hashtags like #foldingfan, #handfan, and #ChineseFan have garnered millions of views, showcasing the fan’s versatility beyond its cooling function.
Influencers and everyday users alike have fueled the trend by sharing:
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Satisfying snap-open videos,
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Fashion styling tips with fans as accessories,
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DIY fan customization tutorials.
One viral example includes an American influencer known as “甲亢哥” (Thyroid Guy) who received a handmade Chinese fan during his travels in China. His genuine reaction and storytelling drew millions of views, sparking a wave of curiosity and admiration for traditional Chinese fans among Western viewers.
How Gen Z Is Making the Folding Fan Their Own
For Gen Z, the folding fan is more than a cultural artifact—it’s a personal expression tool.
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At music festivals and outdoor parties, fans are used not only for relief from the heat but as part of the outfit. With oversized pants, sunglasses, and handheld fans, festivalgoers curate a retro-futuristic look that stands out on camera.
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Design diversity fuels its popularity: from minimalist colors to vintage floral prints, fans cater to a wide range of aesthetic preferences. Personalized fans featuring names, slogans, or original artwork are especially favored for self-expression.
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At home, fans serve as wall decor, shelf pieces, or photo props—merging Eastern heritage with Western interior styles. For Gen Z, cultural appreciation meets visual storytelling in their everyday surroundings.
A Booming Trend in Cross-Border E-Commerce
The folding fan’s social media popularity is now reflected in e-commerce trends.
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On TikTok Shop (U.S. region), a plain-colored Chinese folding fan sold nearly 7,000 units in 28 days, generating $28,100 in sales.
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On Amazon, monthly sales of silk-and-bamboo folding fans regularly exceed 4,000 units, proving strong global demand for these traditional products.
These numbers suggest more than a passing trend—they reveal a lasting appetite for culturally rich, aesthetically unique, and sustainable fashion items.
How Brands Can Ride the Folding Fan Wave
Brands that recognize this cultural shift can turn a niche product into a mainstream favorite by:
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Designing with Gen Z in mind: Merge traditional craftsmanship with modern, stylish elements like pastel tones, holographic prints, or anime-inspired patterns.
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Leveraging influencer partnerships: Collaborate with creators who understand the aesthetic value of fans and can showcase them in lifestyle content, from “Get Ready With Me” videos to music festival vlogs.
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Offering customization services: Gen Z consumers crave uniqueness. Personalized fans with initials, favorite quotes, or user-submitted artwork are high-converting products on both marketplaces and DTC websites.
Craftshistory: The Cultural Engine Behind the Trend
At the heart of this movement is Craftshistory, a brand dedicated to blending traditional Chinese artistry with global fashion sensibilities.
Craftshistory offers folding fans that speak directly to the Gen Z mindset—products rooted in heritage yet tuned to contemporary aesthetics.
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Design Highlights:
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Guofeng Floral Editions: Inspired by traditional Chinese motifs, suitable for vintage streetwear or creative shoots.
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Custom Creations: Fans can upload their own designs—text, patterns, even AI art—for truly one-of-a-kind fans.
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Cross-Border Capabilities:
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MOQ starts at just 50 units, ideal for small boutiques, travel agencies, or event organizers.
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Fast prototyping and multilingual support ensure smooth experiences for international clients.
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Craftshistory doesn’t just sell fans—it delivers a piece of history tailored for the modern world.
Conclusion: Cultural Legacy Meets Modern Aesthetics
The global resurgence of Chinese folding fans is not merely a passing fashion moment—it represents a deeper cultural conversation. For Gen Z, the fan is a bridge between the past and the present, between heritage and individuality.
Thanks to platforms like TikTok, and the design vision of brands like Craftshistory, folding fans have successfully crossed borders—becoming symbolic tools for storytelling, self-expression, and cultural exchange.
As traditional craftsmanship meets digital culture, the folding fan is no longer a relic of the past—it’s a rising icon of modern style.
