In 2025, China’s entertainment and fashion industries continue to reshape global perceptions of beauty, artistry, and influence. This year’s list of China’s Ten Most Influential Women celebrates a diverse range of figures whose impact extends far beyond the screen.
The ranking evaluates multiple dimensions, including appearance, cultural reach, and commercial value, to highlight how these celebrities define the evolving landscape of modern Chinese femininity.
1. Dilraba Dilmurat 迪丽热巴
Dilraba Dilmurat, born on June 3, 1992, in Ürümqi, Xinjiang, is a leading Chinese actress. Known for her striking features that blend Eastern and Western aesthetics, she rose to fame through popular dramas such as Eternal Love (2017) and The King’s Woman (2017). Dilraba’s versatile acting, charismatic screen presence, and fashion-forward image have made her a global ambassador for luxury brands like Balenciaga and L’Oréal. Celebrated for both her talent and cultural influence, she is widely regarded as one of China’s most influential young stars.
2. Liu Yifei 刘亦菲
Liu Yifei, born on August 25, 1987, in Wuhan, Hubei Province, is a renowned Chinese actress, widely celebrated for her ethereal beauty and graceful presence, earning her the nickname “Fairy Sister” (神仙姐姐). She gained fame through TV dramas such as The Return of the Condor Heroes (2006) and Chinese Paladin (2005), and achieved international recognition as the lead in Disney’s Mulan (2020). Liu Yifei is also a fashion icon, frequently collaborating with luxury brands such as Dior and Louis Vuitton. Her combination of elegance, talent, and cross-cultural appeal has made her one of China’s most enduring and influential actresses.
3. Zhao Liying 赵丽颖
Zhao Liying, born on October 16, 1987, in Langfang, Hebei Province, is one of China’s most beloved and versatile actresses. She rose to fame with hit dramas such as Legend of Lu Zhen (2013) and The Journey of Flower (2015), captivating audiences with her expressive acting and relatable charm. Known for her soft, round features and natural beauty, Zhao Liying has broken conventional aesthetic standards in the Chinese media. Zhao Liying is also admired for her hardworking image, and humble background, and continues to impress with roles in series such as The Legend of Shen Li and Wild Bloom.
4. Yang Zi 杨紫
Yang Zi, born on November 6, 1992, in Beijing, is a highly acclaimed Chinese actress known for her versatility and emotional depth. She began her career as a child actress in Home with Kids (2005) and rose to prominence with fantasy and romance dramas such as Ashes of Love (2018) and The Oath of Love (2022). Praised for her relatable performances and empathetic portrayal of characters, Yang Zi has become a leading figure in Chinese television. Beyond acting, she is recognized for her influence in fashion and popular culture, often blending modern aesthetics with traditional Chinese elements, making her a symbol of contemporary Chinese femininity.
5. Bai Lu 白鹿
Bai Lu, born on September 23, 1994, in Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, is a rising Chinese actress celebrated for her fresh, youthful charm and distinctive “deer-like” features. She gained recognition with dramas such as The Legends (2019) and Love is Sweet (2020), captivating audiences with her natural charisma. Known for her playful, approachable image and strong social media presence, Bai Lu has become a style icon among younger viewers and a popular figure in China’s digital and entertainment culture.
6. Zhao Lusi 赵露思
Zhao Lusi, born on November 9, 1998, in Chengdu, is one of China’s most popular young actresses, known for her fresh charm and expressive “lychee eyes”. She rose to fame with Oh! My Emperor (2018) and The Romance of Tiger and Rose (2020), later earning acclaim for The Long Ballad, Who Rules the World, and Hidden Love. Zhao Lusi represents a new wave of Chinese talent blending authenticity, elegance, and modern cultural influence both on screen and in fashion.
7. Ni Ni 倪妮
Ni Ni, born on August 8, 1988, in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, is a famous Chinese actress and a global fashion icon. She became known with Zhang Yimou’s The Flowers of War (2011) and has since showcased her versatility in Shock Wave 2, The Rise of Phoenixes and Love and Destiny. Ni Ni is a brand ambassador for luxury labels including Gucci and Omega. She is referred to in major media as an “it girl” of Chinese entertainment, thanks to her early breakout and stylish image.
8. Gao Yuanyuan 高圆圆
Gao Yuanyuan, born on October 5, 1979, in Beijing, is a well known Chinese actress and model. She gained fame with Shanghai Dreams (2005) and City of Life and Death (2009), and has starred in popular dramas including Don’t Go Breaking My Heart (2011) and Perfect Couple (2020). Praised for her timeless beauty and sophisticated style, Gao Yuanyuan has become a muse for luxury brands Max Mara and L’Oréal.
9. Cheng Xiao 程潇
Cheng Xiao, born on July 15, 1998, in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, is a Chinese singer, dancer, and actress known for her exceptional talent and stage presence. She debuted as a member of the K-pop girl group WJSN (Cosmic Girls) in 2016, quickly gaining international attention for her precise dance skills and striking visuals. Beyond music, Cheng Xiao has expanded into acting and variety shows, earning praise for her charisma and hard work.
10. Yang Mi 杨幂
Yang Mi, born on September 12, 1986, in Beijing, is a famous and influential Chinese actress, singer and producer. She began acting at a very young age and starred in television dramas Palace (2011) and Eternal Love (2017), earning a reputation for her captivating performances and trendsetting style. Yang Mi has significantly shaped modern Chinese beauty and fashion trends, while also successfully managing her production company. She remains a high-profile public figure with extensive media coverage and brand partnerships.
