Vivienne Tam’s City Camouflaged Autumn Winter 2021 collection captures Hong Kong’s buzzing energy and vibrant, lush landscapes across matching two-pieces, denim separates and sleek dresses. The collection, which was photographed at iconic Hong Kong landmark Ngong Ping 360, is gender-neutral and inclusive, with Vivienne insistent on creating a universal collection that respected its wearer – and mother nature.
During an unexpectedly long trip back in Hong Kong, Vivienne took the time to rediscover what brings the city to life, from the rolling hills just moments away from a concrete jungle, to the electrifying zest of the city itself. Staying true to the brand’s distinct motifs and vocabulary, Vivienne pieced together culturally-embedded fabrics to create the unique collection, sharing her rekindled love for the city with the world.
The designer also collaborated with Tea Château, a brand creating unique tea capsules which aligns with Vivienne Tam’s East meets West perspective. Working together to release four types of teas for the collection, Vivienne designed each capsule with the Graffiti Dragon, a recurring motif from City Camouflaged that highlights an iconic Chinese symbol, the dragon, alongside graffiti, a more Western contemporary art form.
Can you describe the City Camouflaged AW21 collection in three words?
Inclusive, energetic, love
What inspires you most about Hong Kong?
The mountains and the sea, the Geoparks. An amazing metropolis where breathtaking nature hikes and spiritual walks are just a whisper away from the bustling skyscrapers and urban jungle.
What do you love about this city and what is something you have rediscovered on your long visit back?
I started to go hiking with friends during this unexpectedly long stay. The nature parks are so amazing, within 15 minutes we could arrive in beautiful places that felt like we were travelling overseas. I became a tourist again! And Hong Kong is blessed with good weather all year round.
Hong Kong’s classic red tarp is such a recognisable, beloved material in the city. What other fabrics/patterns spark that same type of recognition for you that you instantly associate with Hong Kong?
The “city camouflaged” print in my new collection says it all – mythical motifs of nature such as dragons and phoenixes, iconic city symbols like the birdcage, teapots, cable cars and junk boats are remixed with the city maps in pop colours.
What is it about dragons that you find quintessential to Hong Kong?
When people think of Hong Kong they think of Kowloon, the peninsular that connects people from north to south. And Kowloon is literally “nine dragons”, with eight of them referring to the eight iconic hills of the city. Dragon is in every day of our life.
What is your favourite piece in the collection? What is the most unexpected piece you created?
I love all the pieces. My favourite would be the washed jacquard denim cheongsam coat with dragon graffiti and Chinese knots. And the unisex denim jacket with colourful city camouflaged lace details styled even better on men – that’s unexpectedly cool. They are gender-neutral pieces.
How did the collaboration between Tea Chateau and Vivienne Tam came about? Please explain the brand’s tea capsules concept.
I like tea very much because tea a fundamental component of traditional Chinese drinking culture. It is a combination of life and philosophy. When I first heard about Tea Chateau, I was amazed by the western capsules made of Chinese tea or herbal tea. This perfectly combines elements from the East and the West, which also aligns with Vivienne Tam’s East Meets West concept.
How did you unify both brands with your designs?
When designing the “Tea Chateau x Vivienne Tam Graffiti Dragon” Collection, I thought which symbol could best represent the fusion of Chinese and Western remedies. I decided the symbol of China will be the dragon; while graffiti was the most popular artistic form in modern western culture. Therefore, the “Tea Chateau X Vivienne Tam Graffiti Dragon” Collection was inspired by the Chinese Hongshan first jade dragon and western urban art designs to bring forth a young and energetic spirit.
What is the most exciting part about collaborating with another brand?
I love collaborations. Collaborating with other brands is so much fun, especially when working with those in other fields of expertise. I can learn about different business and cultural elements, expand my audience to different customers, and have the chance to design something new that isn’t fashion.
Is there anything new you’re currently working on? What can we look forward to at Vivienne Tam in the future?
I’m working in my next collection and something very exciting for Chinese New Year – a year of the tiger collection.
Editor
Carina FischerCredit
Lead image: courtesy of Vivienne Tam
