Shanghai Fashion Week took a futuristic leap on March 26 when Unitree Robotics’ humanoid robot G1, alongside its robotic dog companion, strutted down the runway, blending high fashion with cutting-edge tech.

The groundbreaking moment unfolded during avant-garde label NMTG’s show, turning heads and sparking buzz at the Spring/Summer 2025 event.

The G1, a sleek, AI-driven marvel from China’s Unitree Robotics, didn’t just walk—it performed. After human models showcased NMTG’s collection, the robotic duo emerged, with the dog flipping mid-stage to reveal a custom outfit. A blue-clad model then adorned the G1 with a 3D-printed deer-shaped necklace, symbolizing harmony, as it shook hands with her in a seamless human-machine dance.

Creative director Xu Shangxi, inspired by Unitree’s viral Chinese New Year robot performance, called it “a manifesto for the future,” merging nature, humanity, and technology.

This wasn’t a gimmick but a bold statement. The G1, known for its agility—think spinning handkerchiefs and traditional dance moves—wore a metallic bodice with maroon and cream fringes, proving robots can rock couture.

The collaboration between Unitree, NMTG, and Shanghai Fashion Week shattered norms, redefining the runway as a space where culture and innovation collide.

Reactions were electric yet mixed. Posts on X hailed it as a “vibe shift,” with some seeing China fusing tech into daily life, while others mocked the G1’s stiff gait—“Has it just ridden a horse for 10 days?” one quipped. Love it or loathe it, this robotic catwalk debut signals fashion’s bold new frontier.