Carhartt WIP, the streetwear division of the iconic workwear brand Carhartt, has once again showcased its ability to blend function and style. To celebrate the Lunar New Year and usher in the Year of the Snake, the brand has released a bold two-piece collection that takes inspiration from the reptilian theme. Featuring a full snakeskin-covered hoodie and matching shorts, this monochrome set is both striking and versatile, making it a standout addition to Carhartt WIP’s already impressive catalog.

The Design: A Scaly Celebration

Carhartt WIP’s Lunar New Year collection is anchored by its all-over snakeskin design, which serves as a tribute to the Year of the Snake. Both the hooded sweatshirt and the sweat shorts feature a monochrome black-and-white color scheme, giving the collection a sleek and modern edge. The snakeskin pattern is intricately detailed, providing a texture-like visual effect that mirrors the scales of a real snake.

The hoodie boasts Carhartt’s signature relaxed fit, with a drawstring hood, ribbed cuffs, and hem for comfort and utility. The matching sweat shorts feature an elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring, ensuring ease of movement and wearability. Both pieces are crafted from high-quality cotton blends, maintaining Carhartt WIP’s reputation for durable and premium materials.

The design is understated yet bold, with the monochrome palette ensuring the pieces are eye-catching without feeling overwhelming. This balance makes the set ideal for those who appreciate subtle yet impactful streetwear.

Lunar New Year and the Year of the Snake

The Year of the Snake is associated with qualities like wisdom, intuition, and elegance, all of which are reflected in this collection. By choosing a snakeskin pattern, Carhartt WIP connects the collection directly to the symbolic qualities of the zodiac sign while offering a modern take on Lunar New Year traditions. The choice of monochrome also lends the collection a timeless quality, ensuring its relevance beyond the celebratory period.

Styling the Snakeskin Set

One of the strengths of this two-piece collection is its versatility. The hoodie and shorts can be worn together as a matching set for a bold, cohesive look or styled separately for more understated outfits. Here are a few ways to incorporate these pieces into your wardrobe:

Full Set Look: Pair the hoodie and shorts with minimal sneakers, such as white leather kicks, to let the snakeskin print take center stage. Add a black beanie or cap to round out the look.

Hoodie Focus: Wear the hoodie with black joggers or dark-wash denim for a casual yet stylish outfit. Add chunky boots or sneakers to elevate the ensemble.

Shorts Highlight: Style the shorts with a plain black or white T-shirt and slides for an effortless summer vibe. Layer with a lightweight jacket for cooler days.

The monochrome palette makes these pieces easy to mix and match with other wardrobe staples, ensuring they remain versatile despite their bold design.

Material and Craftsmanship

As expected from Carhartt WIP, the hoodie and shorts are crafted with attention to detail and durability. The pieces are made from a soft yet sturdy cotton-blend fabric that ensures comfort while maintaining the brand’s signature ruggedness. The snakeskin pattern is printed with precision, showcasing Carhartt WIP’s ability to deliver high-quality design on functional apparel.

The elastic waistband on the shorts and the drawstring hood on the sweatshirt add practical touches, making the set suitable for a range of activities, from lounging to casual outings.

Lunar New Year Collections: A Growing Trend

Carhartt WIP’s snakeskin collection is part of a broader trend in fashion where brands release limited-edition capsules to celebrate Lunar New Year. These collections often incorporate zodiac motifs or traditional themes into contemporary designs, offering consumers a unique way to honor the occasion.

What sets Carhartt WIP apart is its commitment to maintaining its streetwear DNA while integrating cultural references. The snakeskin hoodie and shorts are unmistakably Carhartt—functional, durable, and effortlessly cool—yet they also pay homage to the Year of the Snake in a way that feels authentic and modern.

Sustainability and Carhartt WIP

Carhartt WIP has taken steps toward incorporating more sustainable practices into its production processes. While this particular collection doesn’t specifically highlight sustainability, the brand’s commitment to quality means these pieces are built to last, promoting longevity over fast fashion. Investing in well-made, durable clothing like this snakeskin set contributes to a more sustainable wardrobe overall.

Availability and Pricing

The Lunar New Year collection is available through Carhartt WIP’s official website and select retailers. As of its release, the hoodie is priced at $148 USD, while the shorts are available for $98 USD. Given the limited-edition nature of the collection, these pieces are expected to sell out quickly, making them a coveted addition for fans of the brand and streetwear enthusiasts alike.

Why the Snakeskin Set Stands Out

This collection stands out for several reasons:

•Bold Yet Wearable: The snakeskin pattern is eye-catching but remains versatile thanks to the monochrome color scheme.

•Symbolic Design: By tying the design to the Year of the Snake, the collection gains a cultural depth that resonates with a wide audience.

•Carhartt Quality: True to the brand’s heritage, the hoodie and shorts are built to last, combining style with functionality.

•Limited Edition Appeal: The exclusivity of the collection makes it a must-have for collectors and streetwear fans.

Final Thoughts

Carhartt WIP’s Lunar New Year collection is a masterclass in blending cultural symbolism with contemporary streetwear aesthetics. The snakeskin-covered hoodie and shorts are bold yet understated, offering a unique way to celebrate the Year of the Snake while remaining versatile and timeless.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Carhartt WIP or someone looking to add a statement piece to your wardrobe, this collection is a perfect choice. With its high-quality construction, thoughtful design, and cultural relevance, the Lunar New Year set is a standout release that reflects the best of what Carhartt WIP has to offer.

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