Nike celebrates the Chinese New Year with a new limited edition collection
Nike is taking part in Chinese traditions. To commemorate the Year
of the Pig, the animal sign representing 2019 in Chinese tradition,
Nike will launch a new limited edition collection inspired by the 12
traditional Chinese horoscope signs. The collection is set to release
in January.
The styles comprise of mixed patterns incorporating the 12 Chinese
zodiac animal signs into classic silhouettes of Nike, Jordan and
Converse designs. Patterns appear in geometric motifs, as well as a
large patchwork mosaic, traditionally known as “Bai Jia Yi”.
Nike uses its designs to introduce these same forms inspired by
traditional Chinese culture and its “Bai Jia Yi” in two ways. The
first is a geometric pattern and patchwork in a colorful palette, and
the second is a simple engraved silhouette of the pattern. In addition
to this, fabrics and designs directly related to the 12 animal signs
named every Chinese New Year are evident in the collection.
The imitation snakeskin material in the Nike Air Force 1 from
2013, or the Year of the Snake, appears on the heel of the new Nike
Air Max 98 CNY. The Nike Kyrie 5 CNY encompasses the Bai Jia Yi
geometric pattern on the back of the heel and sole. The Nike Zoom
Pegasus Turbo CNY includes and engraving of the same Bai Jia Yi
scheme. The color scheme of crimson, gold and yellow, work to compose
a color palette that connects with the traditional time of the Chinese
Empire.