VIVIENNE TAM SS25 “La Li
Vivienne Tam is set to unveil her much-anticipated Spring/Summer 2025 collection on September 27 under the renowned Alexander III Bridge in Paris. Opening the show will be Paris Jackson, daughter of music legend Michael Jackson, adding a touch of star power to this extraordinary showcase.
Titled “La Li — Hainan Breeze,” the SS25 collection takes its inspiration from the island of Hainan, often referred to as China’s Hawaii, and its rich cultural heritage. Tam embarks on a journey to the far-flung Wuzhishan (Five Finger Mountain) to pay homage to the Lí Jǐn ethnic minority, whose 3,000-year-old tradition of brocade weaving has been recognised as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. In this collection, Tam reinterprets these ancient techniques, translating them into a modern, resort-ready fashion story.
The collection features intricate patterns inspired by the Li tribe’s rich iconography, including symbols of strength, nature, and community, such as strongmen, deers, frogs, flowers, and dancing women. Tam modernises these motifs with contemporary design elements, including geometric patterns and playful proportions, while still honouring the essence of the Li heritage. Fabrics have been crafted using indigenous methods by Hainan’s Li artisans, bringing a tactile and authentic touch to the collection. By embracing traditional craftsmanship, Tam highlights her ongoing commitment to sustainability and the empowerment of local artisans.
The colour palette bursts with tropical vitality, drawing from the natural beauty of Hainan. Crisp whites, vibrant gingers, rich indigos, spinach greens, and red cabbage purples are paired with lace, denim, cotton, and silks. The pieces themselves reflect a fusion of tradition and modernity: cool blazers, cheeky mini skirts, and sporty jackets nod to athleisure, while feminine bubble skirts and fluid dresses bring a softer, more youthful vibe to the collection.
This collection reflects Vivienne Tam and the vision of merging tradition with modern life, creating pieces that resonate not only with the tropical beauty of Hainan but also with the streets of Paris, Hong Kong, and New York. This Paris show continues Vivienne Tam’s longstanding presence on the international fashion stage. Known for her signature blend of East and West, Tam has consistently captivated the Paris Fashion Week audience with her visionary designs that merge traditional Chinese artistry with contemporary, global style. Her ability to craft a cultural dialogue through fashion has made her a staple in Paris, one of the world’s most prestigious fashion capitals. From the early 2000s to today, Tam has used her platform in Paris to celebrate cross-cultural influences, sustainability, and innovation, building a loyal international following.