From Gucci to Jaeger-Lecoultre, these luxury brands are launching a collection inspired by the year of the dragon
A symbol of power, fortune, and prosperity, the dragon is the most iconic and mythical creature in Chinese culture, defined by an aura of strength, good luck, and auspicious beginnings. Its influence extends far beyond astrology, though. Welcoming the year of the dragon, brands are taking cues from the zodiac sign. In a convergence of tradition and modernity, it becomes a muse for creativity and innovation.
Within the luxury realm, illustrious luxury brands have embraced this zodiac sign, weaving its symbolism into their exquisite collections. These brands, with their unparalleled craftsmanship and artistic prowess, have embarked on a journey to capture the essence of the dragon and infuse it into their creations, transforming heritage into contemporary elegance.
Fendi x Hiroshi Fujiwara
The collaboration between Fendi and Hiroshi Fujiwara’s Fragment Design sees more than just the codes of both authorities. Embracing the auspicious year of the dragon as its muse, this union ventures into uncharted territories by partnering with The Pokémon Company, elegantly weaving the beloved characters—Dratini, Dragonair, and Dragonite—into an exclusive collection. Beyond pieces infused with the DNA of Fendi and Fragment Design, the series houses the iconic Peekaboo and Baguette bags, mini classics, small leather goods, relaxed clothing, and accessories featuring the Dragon-type Pokémons.
Jaeger-LeCoultre
The Reverso repertoire welcomes a new marvel: the Reverso Tribute Enamel Dragon, an homage to the zodiac sign of 2024 and maestros in the Métiers Rares atelier of the Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre.
On the flip side of the watch case lies a breathtaking sight—a resplendent dragon gracefully framed by golden clouds. Engraved into a pink gold case, the dragon emerges vividly against the backdrop of glossy black Grand Feu enamel. The dragon’s polished contours, meticulously detailed scales accentuated with black rhodium, and the textured clouds create an illusion of dynamism and power as they interact with light.
The dial of the Reverso Tribute Enamel mirrors the allure of the case-back with its black Grand Feu enamel. The dial’s refined simplicity, adorned with faceted appliqué hour-markers, a chemin de fer minutes track, and Dauphine hands, allows the radiant black background to take centre stage.
Shanghai Tang
Shanghai Tang reunites with artist Long Di for a new collection. After multiple visits to museums, researching the role of dragons in Chinese culture, the artist created a set of vivid dragon and phoenix imageries for the festive series. Combining the characteristics of traditional dragon and phoenix motifs with Long Di’s unique style, the approach aligns perfectly with the brand concept of Shanghai Tang, Make Life a Party. Dubbed Twin Bliss, the collection boasts the said visuals, manifested on decal porcelain scented candles, bags, scarves, accessories, and glasses.
Lancôme
This Chinese New Year, Lancôme commemorates the legendary power of 龍 (pronounced Loong) – the magnificent dragon. Come 3 January 2024, the brand’s star products–the Advanced Génifique Serum & Absolue Soft Cream–will arrive in stores dressed in an exclusive Chinese New Year packaging. Designed by London-based Chinese artist Jacky Tsai, the packaging, also known as the Lancôme Loong, perfectly weaves the symbols of Shanghai and Paris, blending east and west, to create the most exquisitely detailed art.
Gucci
The Gucci Year of the Dragon capsule collection is complemented by a captivating narrative featuring actress Tian XiWei. This narrative unfolds through intimate portrayals and scenes, tapping into the collective imagination associated with this jubilant time of year.
Within the campaign, the 26-year-old Chinese luminary showcases diverse ensembles from the capsule’s array of ready-to-wear attire, handbags, footwear, and accessories. These creations ingeniously reinterpret the house’s iconic motifs, infusing them with allusions to the dragon’s symbolism. From snug knitwear to iconic handbags and luxurious leather accessories, this collection encompasses silk fabrics, exquisite silver jewellery, and stylish eyewear, culminating in a refined assortment that encapsulates the spirit of the festive season.
Tod’s
At Tod’s, the iconic Gommino Bubble, the newest sneaker style, and the rubber sole loafers showcase a striking double dragon motif intertwined with the Maison’s logo on their inner soles. The limited-edition 2024 Year of the Dragon collection extends beyond footwear to include various accessories paying homage to the zodiac sign. Among these offerings is a leather and fabric shopping bag, elegantly featuring the double dragon pattern within its internal leather pouch.
Max Mara
Max Mara rings in the Lunar New Year with an enchanting narrative featuring Max the Dragon and his steadfast companion, Little Ted, embarking on an adventurous journey through the land of Fjords and wildflower meadows. The selection of wardrobe that unfolds draws inspiration from the traditional celebrations of Chinese New Year and the enchanting home of “Scandidragon” – the legendary hero of mythical tales passed down by the ancestors of stylish protagonists, Max the Dragon and Little Ted. From these flights of fashion and folkloric fantasy, a collection rich in the romance of the fjords and the regal splendour of the Chinese New Year celebrations emerges.
The meticulously curated assortment showcases timeless elegance in classic black and vibrant scarlet hues. Among the offerings is a short Teddy Bear Coat alongside an array of glamorous jackets, bedecked in rich red tones and adorned with linings paying homage to the year of the dragon. The collection also boasts printed shirts and knitwear adorned with floral motifs reminiscent of Scandinavian wildflower garlands, culminating in a look complemented by resplendent shiny brooches.
Acne Studios
London-based Chinese artist, Lian Zhang, helms the artistic vision of this Acne Studios’ collection, adorning it with her imaginative portrayal of the dragon.
The collection features standout pieces, such as skin-tight and oversized T-shirts and blouses, drenched in Acne Studios’ signature pink and soft white hues, embroidered with the spirited Chinese Zodiac dragon. Additionally, the dragon takes centre stage as a vivid pendant adorning vintage chain necklaces and single silver earrings, effectively bringing forth the essence of the year of the dragon.
Giorgio Armani
Embraced by the global image ambassador Hu Ge, Giorgio Armani’s Lunar New Year men’s collection for 2024 radiates sophistication. The refined line unveils a diverse range of ready-to-wear pieces meticulously crafted from luxurious silk and polyester, complemented by sportswear that showcases the innovative use of double-faced knitted fabric.
A focal point within this collection is the incorporation of a dragon motif, intricately emblazoned on select fabrics. The majestic dragon gracefully spirals around the iconic brand logo, stealing the spotlight and infusing a touch of mythical allure into the line-up.
