Adidas Tang Jacket: History Woven with Style

The Chinese threads always aspire to bind culture while delivering a fashion statement. Taking inspiration from this, Adidas paved the way for their infamous Tang jacket.

The jacket transcends contemporary fashion by drawing inspiration from one of China's most influential eras, the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), often regarded as China's golden age of civilization. By referencing this period, Adidas positions the jacket not only as apparel but as a revival of historical pride woven into modern streetwear. 

Inspired by the classic Tang jacket, which features traditional Chinese tailoring with a stand-up Mandarin collar, eccentric colours, and "frog" toggle closures, Adidas has curated a collection that is equally sporty yet historically enthralling.

If you grew up celebrating Chinese New Year, these intricate loops will feel instantly familiar. Seen on the qipao or cheongsam (長衫) and the chángpáo (長袍), often worn during festivities, these handcrafted knot closures are woven deep into childhood memories. Beyond their decorative appeal, these traditional Chinese knots carry powerful symbolism, representing unity, harmony, and good fortune, and are believed to usher in happiness and prosperity for the year ahead.

Historically, the Tang Dynasty was at a crossroads along the Silk Road where innovation, fabric, and craftsmanship moved between the East and West. The spirit of this exchange aligns naturally with Adidas' global identity, where the aesthetics of various cultures are embedded within the tailoring of the brand's clothing line. It reflects the era's openness and cosmopolitanism, where the Tang jacket acts as a cultural symbol of tradition and contemporary fashion. To top it off, the brand introduces a pet collection as well which includes track tops, puffer vests and windbreakers.

Adidas' Lunar New Year Collection for Pets

Exclusively available in regions of Hong Kong and China, the brand showcases how history can be honored in different forms of art, one being fashion where fabrics and heritage can coexist peacefully.