A viral video from China shows models walking on treadmills outside a mall, replacing mannequins to showcase new fashion. The bizarre yet captivating footage, which has accumulated over 5 million views, has left viewers shocked and intrigued. The video, filmed outside the ITIB clothing store, features women strutting on runway-like treadmills dressed in the latest collections. The women walk confidently on treadmills, showcasing the store’s newest fashion pieces in a bold and unconventional display.
Take a look at the full video here-
While the concept of live mannequins is not entirely new, this bold fashion stunt has drawn both admiration and criticism. The models walk with runway-worthy professionalism, while shoppers stop to admire and capture the unusual spectacle. The women on the treadmills are not only displaying the garments but also demonstrating how the clothes move and fit in real-life scenarios.
The trend isn’t unique to China. Just months ago, a similar scenario unfolded in Dubai, where a model stood next to mannequins at a prominent mall. However, this more unconventional approach in China has sparked even stronger reactions. Some internet users argue that the practice dehumanizes or exploits the women, with comments comparing it to modern-day slavery. “Her feet must be killing her,” one user commented, questioning the necessity of replacing static mannequins with real people.
On the flip side, many social media users have found a lighter take on the situation. Some people have called it a clever way to earn money while staying fit. “Not a bad hustle! Get paid to walk and show off the latest trends,” one amused user wrote. Others raised concerns about the models’ safety on the treadmill, expressing worries about the lack of guardrails and the potential for accidents.
This innovative retail marketing strategy is a prime example of how far fashion brands are willing to push boundaries in order to captivate shoppers. Whether it’s seen as a creative breakthrough or a controversial stunt, the idea of live mannequins continues to spark debates on social media.
As the internet reacts to this viral phenomenon, one thing is clear: this unconventional approach to showcasing fashion has captured attention across the globe. But the question remains—will it become a widespread trend, or is it just another passing experiment in the ever-evolving world of retail?
