In southern China, a hairstylist known for his dramatic and artistic hairstyles has shifted his focus to fashion and theatre. Luo Fuxing, a 30-year-old from Guangdong, gained fame by crafting elaborate hair designs resembling aeroplanes, birds, and even houses. Using gel to shape his hair after washing, he has captivated audiences with his unique creations. By dedicating just two days a month to hairstyling and sharing his work online, he reportedly earns between 30,000 and 50,000 yuan (US$4,000 to US$6,800).
Luo draws inspiration from films and personal experiences. In one instance, he designed a tap-shaped hairstyle that dripped water, symbolizing the “water dragon” in Chinese folklore to celebrate the Year of the Dragon, which earned him 240,000 likes. He has also created a gas mask-shaped hairstyle, humorously calling it a “hair mask” for people with rhinitis, and a Medusa-inspired look featuring snake-like hair that went viral on social media. Despite criticism branding his work as unprofessional and absurd, Luo remains unfazed, stating that he does not cater to the mainstream.
Raised as a left-behind child with parents working far from home, Luo grew up feeling lonely and love-deprived. During primary school, he experimented with bold styles influenced by video game characters, dyeing his hair pink, wearing black lipstick, and embracing a Gothic aesthetic. His daring fashion choices resonated with other left-behind children, leading to a widespread movement. In the early 2000s, he founded the “Shamate Family,” an online group that grew to over 100,000 members, primarily young people from rural areas. The term “Shamate” is a transliteration of “smart,” representing avant-garde fashion.
This subculture became a way for marginalized youth to gain recognition, with exaggerated Gothic hairstyles as a signature feature. Luo viewed it as a means of self-expression, helping young people find confidence. The community provided emotional support and job opportunities, strengthening bonds among members. However, in 2016, Luo’s life changed when his father passed away. Faced with financial responsibilities, misunderstandings from his girlfriend, and pressure during job hunting, he decided to cut off his signature long hair.
Shifting his focus, Luo delved into acting, fashion design, theatre, and art exhibitions while styling for fashion events. Declaring that the non-mainstream Shamate culture is now in the past, he aspires to leave a lasting legacy through meaningful creative pursuits. Today, he shares short videos showcasing his hairstyling work with over 600,000 followers on Douyin.
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