Dragons hit the streets

AS THE DRAGON YEAR APPROACHES, an annual conundrum is set to rear its head again: what to wear, what to wear?

Perhaps, by now, you’re a little fatigued by the post-pandemic opulence of Chinese New Year outfits. It made sense, sure; after all, we’d just ended two full years without busting out our shiniest, most lavish looks. But stiff mandarin collars and tight qipao skirts can get tiring – not to mention terrifying, what with the prospect of popping a button from one too-excessive meal. There’s also the issue of where else you’d ever want to wear a bright red cheongsam.

How, then, about a more relaxed look?

Brands’ drops for the latest cruise and resort season, as well as some pre-spring collections, are just hitting stores, in time for the upcoming festivities. A few have also put out capsule collections for Chinese New Year.

The looks overall are notably more streetwear-inspired, with a hint of retro glamour thrown into the mix. Think looser draped pieces, pop iconography and even hoodies – but never sloppy, thanks to clean lines and unique colour combinations. Matching sets are also coming back in vogue, this time with an emphasis on big, bold prints.

Here, we explore three streetwear trends you can proudly usher in the Year of the Dragon with.

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Game, set, match

Jumpsuits made a massive comeback in the late 2010s, resurrecting the coordinated look so beloved in the 1970s. With the world’s increased focus on conscious consumerism, this style has now evolved to separates. 

Coordinated sets – coords, for short – give the appearance of a single garment, but can easily be mixed and matched for greater variety, meaning fewer chances to get caught repeating outfits.

Take this printed silk muslin look from Chanel’s Cruise 2024 collection. Together, the blouse (S$4,630) and trousers (S$4,480) give off a columnar look and prim vibe, setting off the playful print. Sneakers and gold jewellery add to its cool street appeal while retaining an indubitable glam.

There’s also this jacquard set from Bottega Veneta’s pre-spring 2024 collection, comprising a jumper (S$4,350) and skirt (S$3,210). The red crab motif provides a subtle, slightly humorous nod to the season, without screaming “walking hongbao”, making it an easy look to pull off even after Chinese New Year.

Of legends and icons

One major staple of streetwear is its love for iconography. Logomania may have faced a dip amid the quiet luxury fad of the pandemic years, but it’s sure well and alive this year.

The return of splashed icons is certainly most notable in Fendi’s collaboration with FRGMT – the brainchild of Japanese streetwear legend Hiroshi Fujiwara – and Pokemon. The collection, which features three “dragon-type” Pokemon – Dratini, Dragonair, and Dragonite – has just been released in stores. 

A standout piece is a reimagined Baguette bag with beaded fringe, with all three digital beasts rendered in equally exquisite beading. 

The bag retains the classic lines of Fendi’s iconic Baguette, but adds a youthful twist. The beading adds texture and bling without being overly flashy – a perfect balance for catching attention without drawing ire from snarky aunties.

In a similar vein, Gucci’s collection for the Year of the Dragon includes an adorable-meets-edgy cropped jersey jacket (S$4,000), with printed baby dragons all over. It’s celebratory yet sporty, with potential to be styled up or down. For those who’d prefer a more modest look, there’s a non-cropped rendition (S$5,650), too.

Texture and shine

If graphic prints aren’t quite your speed, unique textures can still help you get that streetwear vibe this Chinese New Year. 

Exemplifying this trend is this mahogany-toned suede number (S$6,950) from Loewe’s pre-spring 2024 collection. With a leather bag handle cleverly moulded into a faux collar, this minidress exemplifies the creative spirit of streetwear, turning common tropes into new and unique interpretations. Its reddish colour is also perfect for the season.

Adding some shimmer and shine is another way to get some casual allure into your Chinese New Year outfit. This Tom Ford spring 2024 piece in gold metallic tweed (S$4,290) blends effortless cool with 1960s glamour for a look that’s equal parts sexy and classy.