In the Studio
Year of the Rabbit: Introducing Our Special Edition Collection
17 May 2023
Peace, prosperity, hope. That’s what the Year of the Rabbit symbolises, and it’s where our Design Team found their inspiration for the Lunar New Year collection. Because what’s more peaceful than a tranquil river setting with our Scottie’s new bunny friends?
“2023 is predicted to be a year of hope.” – Kelly, Brand Manager
Before we dive into the styles, we’ve spoken to Kelly, our Brand Manager for the Asia-Pacific region, to find out a little more about Lunar New Year and what the Year of the Rabbit symbolises.
“Lunar New Year is the happiest time of the year. It means spring is starting and it’s when we can spend time with family. We normally have a family celebration dinner on Chinese New Year’s Eve, and then stay up until midnight for Chinese New Year’s Day, when the fireworks start.
“In the Chinese culture, the rabbit is known to be the luckiest out of all the twelve animals. 2023 is the Year of the Water Rabbit. The shift in energy will be significant as we move out of 2022 and the Year of the Tiger, and into the more patient and gentle Year of the Rabbit. This Rabbit Year is a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity. 2023 is predicted to be a year of hope.”
A peaceful year deserves a serene collection. So, we head down to the Thames, where our Scottie is making friends with the local rabbits.
When creating styles for special occasions, we always look to our collectible picture bag. For Lunar New Year, our Designers have recreated its signature triple-compartment shape in the new season colour, Tranquil Blue (an apt name for the year ahead).
As always, artisan craftsmanship brings the scene to life, with leather appliqué water lilies, our Scottie and his new bunny friend with a soft-to-touch shearling belly and tail. Cute. This characterful style is one of Kelly’s favourites. “I love the picture bag in this collection. It perfectly identifies the Year of Water Rabbit.”
This year’s Zodiac character also features on the new, rounded canteen shoulder bag, complete with his fluffy shearling belly. Designed with our Heirloom print, a matching metal plaque and shiny chain strap, this is the one to wear for celebrations throughout the year.
“In the Chinese culture, the rabbit is known to be the luckiest out of all the twelve animals.” – Kelly, Brand Manager
And we didn’t stop there, because we understand the joy of finding a perfectly matching accessory. Like our recycled cotton canvas tote that'll brighten every shopping trip. And our purses, with their mini replica of the same river scene. With tufts of fluffy shearling, you’ll never want to tuck these away.
Hop on over to our New In page to shop these adorable designs and discover more styles from the January Edit over on Radley Stories.
