How to wear red at Chinese New Year: from Gucci and Cartier’s statement pieces to red-accented jewellery from Van Cleef & Arpels, add an auspicious and luxurious touch to any outfit
- Zodiac designs should be kept to a minimum, but can work as small leather goods like coin wallets, or wearable accent pieces such as Gucci’s Tiny Dragon enamelled charm necklace
- Van Cleef & Arpels’ four-leaf clover motif in carnelian is a lucky red accessory that works year round, while Cartier’s red Panthère chain bag and Trinity cord bracelet will make any ensemble pop
Lunar New Year is all about bidding farewell to the old and ushering in the new. And that means everything from setting worthy goals for the year to celebrating with a new outfit.
Historically, new attire for the holidays did not necessarily mean bright colours. For many, it was the only time when they made or bought new clothes at all, so they often kicked off the festive season in muted tones.
Today, red and other vibrant hues are a common sight around this time of year. Still, we can take a page from those who came before us and look for ways to add pieces to our wardrobe that we can use year round.
Red on for our dos and don’ts of dressing and accessorising for the holiday season.
1. Wear zodiac designs … but keep it subtle
Every year, brands rush to launch pieces inspired by the year’s zodiac animal. While a piece with a bunny or a dragon might be cute during new year week, you’ll likely quickly tire of the overtly festive theme.