Born in Beijing, Guo Pei established her own fashion house in 1997, quickly becoming a prominent figure in Chinese luxury fashion. She gained significant international attention in 2015 when Rihanna wore her intricate, yellow embroidered gown to the Met Gala, a moment that introduced her work to a global audience. She holds the distinction of being the first born-and-raised Asian designer invited as a guest member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture.

Her work is characterized by heavy embroidery, voluminous silhouettes, and a fusion of historical Chinese motifs with contemporary couture techniques. She is widely known for her bridal wear and elaborate, theatrical runway presentations that emphasize craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Her practice often involves thousands of hours of hand-stitching, reflecting a commitment to preserving traditional artisanal skills.

Guo Pei continues to be a significant presence in the international art and fashion circuit, with recent engagements including presentations at Art Basel Hong Kong. Her work has been the subject of major exhibitions, including a 2025 showcase in Paris titled Golden Thread – Costume Art from North Africa to the East, which further explored her interest in cross-cultural textile traditions.