In a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, lululemon has unveiled its Lunar New Year campaign, “Be Spring,” starring the illustrious Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh and a troupe of eight theatrical Wing Chun dancers. This short film, released just in time for the Year of the Dragon, is more than a visual spectacle; it’s a narrative of rebirth and new beginnings, symbolizing the perpetual spring within us.
A Fusion of East and West
Michelle Yeoh, a paragon of cultural fusion, with her roots in the East and her flourishing career in the West, personifies the campaign’s essence. Her extensive background in dance and martial arts, pivotal to her acclaimed acting journey, resonates deeply with the campaign’s theme. Yeoh emphasizes the importance of understanding oneself – mind, body, and spirit – as the cornerstone of achieving balance and inner peace.
“I’m delighted to be partnering with lululemon. Sports have always been an important element of my life, and in my role as a member of the International Olympic Committee, I am committed to helping more people, especially younger generations, benefit from sports,” said Michelle Yeoh. “Wing Chun holds a special place in my heart. Back in 1994, I starred in the movie ‘Wing Chun’, and thirty years later, I’m honoured to have the opportunity to collaborate with these professional dancers to re-interpret Wing Chun through the short film ‘Be Spring’. This is a concept that resonates with me deeply. Having our own inner spring all year round is our superpower.”
Wellbeing Through Eastern Lenses
Lynn Cheah, Vice President of Brand Marketing & Community at lululemon China, elaborates on the campaign’s core message. “At lululemon, we believe that everyone has the right to be well, and we are committed to the advocacy of wellbeing. This new year, we wanted to explore wellbeing through the lens of eastern culture – our essence, our energy and our spirit,” said Lynn Cheah. “Presented through the juxtaposition of Chinese martial arts – in this case Wing Chun – and dance, ‘Be Spring’ is a celebration of spring, and an invitation to find your balance and your own eternal spring. It is an honour and a pleasure to have both Michelle Yeoh and dancers from the theatrical dance ‘Wing Chun’ join us in realizing this film. Through their movements, they truly demonstrate both the power of martial arts and the grace of dance.”
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The Scenic Backdrop and Fashion Highlights
Set against the picturesque mountains of Jingning and Xiandu, “Be Spring” showcases Michelle Yeoh and the Shenzhen Opera and Dance Theatre dancers in a stunning display of artistry and athleticism. The film’s breathtaking visuals are matched by the impeccable styling, featuring Yeoh in lululemon’s iconic Define Jacket in Bone. This piece, known for its stretchy, buttery soft texture, perfectly complements her fluid movements, embodying the brand’s fusion of comfort and elegance.
Lunar New Year Collection: A Blend of Tradition and Style
In addition to the film, lululemon introduces a Lunar New Year-themed collection, including reimagined favorites like the Align™ series and the Everywhere Belt Bag, all adorned in a festive color palette. Set to launch in Australia later this month, these pieces promise to infuse traditional Lunar New Year hues with lululemon’s signature style and functionality.
Embracing the Eternal Spring
“Be Spring” is more than a campaign; it’s a philosophy that encourages finding balance and rejuvenation in our daily lives. Through the artistic synergy of Michelle Yeoh, the Wing Chun dancers, and lululemon’s latest collection, this Lunar New Year narrative invites us to embrace our inner strength and flexibility, celebrating the eternal spring within each of us.
For a closer look at the campaign and the new collection, high-resolution images and the “Be Spring” video, released on lululemon’s YouTube Channel on January 12, 2024, are available through the provided links.
