Rebirth of cool

Domestic sportswear brand Li-Ning is looking to revive its fortunes and take on global players with its new street-savvy collection

Chinese sports brand Li-Ning impressed fashionistas with its innovative and cutting-edge designs at its debut at the New York Fashion Week earlier this month.

Inspired by Taoism, the brands' Wu Dao collection draws on the principles of the ancient Chinese philosophy to carry the spirit of self-examination, self-enlightenment and creativity.

By mixing its sports origins with a strong sense of Chinese culture and trending contemporary fashion, the 28-year-old brand is attempting to revitalize its image and demonstrate its ambitions to compete on the world stage.

The collection is made up of two ranges - one that celebrates the past, and one that explores the future.