In a dynamic fusion of culture and creativity, Edison Chen, the multifaceted Hong Kong actor, rapper, and fashion designer, recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of CLOT with a show that transcended boundaries and embraced a new era of inclusivity in fashion.
The event took place at Shanghai’s C-Park, and as Chen himself explained, the word “inclusive” takes on a fresh meaning, far from the sometimes polarizing discourse surrounding inclusivity in the modern world.
Two decades ago, CLOT was born, and its exclusivity was its hallmark – an allure that captured the imagination of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. It was an exclusive club, where not everyone could gain access. But times have changed, and the fashion industry, including CLOT, has undergone a transformation. The old exclusivity is giving way to a new kind of curiosity and openness, driven by a pop culture fascination with fashion’s inner workings.
Edison Chen’s vision for CLOT’s 20th anniversary show was a reflection of these changing times. It’s a nod to the past, but more importantly, a bold step into the future.
Earlier this year, the fashion world was abuzz with rumors about CLOT’s partnership with Nike coming to a close. As sneaker enthusiasts speculated about what was next for Edison Chen’s brand, it was revealed that CLOT’s journey was set to continue with none other than adidas.
This exciting collaboration between the renowned Hong Kong-based brand and the German giant recently made its debut as part of CLOT’s 20th-anniversary celebrations. “Adidas Originals by Edison Chen” ushers in a fresh chapter for CLOT, introducing a blend of streetwear and chic fashion.
The collection revealed at CLOT’s fashion show in Shanghai featured an array of modified Superstars, which included a three-way collaboration with Neighborhood. While the collaboration with Neighborhood has already hit the shelves, the release date for the rest of the adidas x CLOT collection remains shrouded in mystery. However, enthusiasts can expect these unique creations to arrive early in 2024.
The brand has also matured in a new area of exploration, now ready to nurture the emerging talent in China, in the same way that global fashion influencers have fostered creativity and innovation in their own communities.
The fashion community in China is embracing global attention, and Chen’s initiative coincides with this surge of recognition. Young labels are garnering international recognition, and collaborations between western and Chinese designers are increasingly common. CLOT’s 20th anniversary show reflects this evolution, a smorgasbord of Chinese youth culture and creativity.
As reported by Vogue, Chen invited young Chinese designers, such as Caroline Hu, Pronounce, Staffonly, and Sankuanz, to contribute looks inspired by CLOT’s aesthetic. Collaborations with renowned names like Sacai, Lu’u Dan, The North Face, Alyx, and Tommy Hilfigher further enriched the show’s diversity. Humberto Leon, a former Kenzo and Opening Ceremony designer, was brought in to consult on CLOT’s ready-to-wear lineup, adding a sleek touch to the brand’s evolving identity.
As Edison Chen puts it, “It’s about holding everyone in.” The 20th-anniversary show was not merely a celebration of the past; it was an inclusive embrace of the future, a testament to CLOT’s commitment to shining a light on the ever-evolving landscape of Chinese fashion. In a world where inclusivity often takes on a different meaning, CLOT’s vision serves as a model for unity and collaboration in the industry.
