Words: Theo Thompson . Images: Chris Yates/ Chris Yates Media
Chi An Lee’s collection “Addicted to Mountains” at FJU Talents during London Fashion Week stood out as a mesmerizing homage to Chinese tradition, philosophy and art. Rooted in Daoist thought, the collection explored the interdependence of “being” and “non-being” through a medium of knitted yarn loops. Much like a flowing stream, the yarn represented the continuous flow of life, weaving together the intricacies of nature and humanity, much like a Chinese ink painting.
Chi An Lee’s designs encapsulated the deep, contemplative essence of traditional Chinese philosophy, fused with a modern, wearable elegance. “I want to let others know that traditional culture can be very new when combined with fashion,” they told me, underscoring their passion for bringing ancient wisdom into a contemporary context. This vision translated beautifully on the runway, where darker tones of brown merged seamlessly into whites and blues, creating a sense of power and tranquillity. The ambiance was heightened by the rhythmic, primal sounds of the didgeridoo, perfectly timed with the unfolding of each look.
The collection’s aesthetic drew heavily from the philosophy of Daoism, with each piece embodying the harmonious balance between nature and humanity. Chi An Lee’s ability to transform the subtlety of Chinese ink painting into a tangible, textured form is a testament to their skill and sensitivity as a designer. They admitted that the hardest part was modernising traditional elements without losing their essence, yet the collection effortlessly managed to preserve the depth and spirituality of its inspiration.
With their focus on traditional Chinese art and philosophy, Chi An Lee challenges the fast-paced, ever-modern fashion world to pause and reflect. “In today’s world, people often forget about tradition,” they said. “I want to remind them of its importance.” Their work serves as both a celebration and a reminder that innovation and heritage are not mutually exclusive.
