The Year of the Dragon is nigh. Henceforth, only prosperity, good fortune and natural confidence should follow—at least if we were to find ourselves on the right side of the Chinese zodiac. In line with the purposeful mood everyone gets to at the start of the year however, we’re also of the belief that with the right intentions (and the unseen powers of manifestation), the path towards said goals can be carved out by ourselves too. In sum, we can be the masters of our own fate.
Whilst landing grand job prospects or chancing upon ‘the one’ of your dreams when you’re halfway across the world can really only be conjured up to an extent, we’ll bet on the powers of self-expression to build up your sense of confidence. For that, you can try your hand at building a bolder, more unabashedly-you look—one worthy of an unexpected debut at a high-octane affair, such as that of the Lunar New Year festivities. Whilst loud, vivacious hues and modern renditions on traditional wear would be perfect for ringing in the auspicious new year, don’t forget that a great deal of our self-confidence also lies in the beauty department. A crimson pout, for one, remains an unfailing classic to stick to if you’re hoping to strike a balance for that maddeningly critical relative in mind. But if you’ve got room for more artistic experimentation beyond the usual, then allow your talons to play the role of your canvas.
Between bejewelled crimson tips, botanicals reminiscent of spring and cheeky references to the zodiac animal of the year, we’ve amassed the most creative interpretations of the season, so you can get to booking your manicurist, pronto. Below, spy Vogue Singapore’s curation of the most CNY-worthy nails to rock up to your upcoming gatherings with.
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Peach fuzz
Pantone’s got a hue fit for the auspicious season this year. Soft and lilting, a simple manicure inspired after the pastel shade will be a grand match to your vivid choice of ensembles.
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Sophistication with a twist
Arm yourself with some talons that strike the perfect balance between sophistication and the celebratory, by incorporating just a sliver of the reigning hue of the festivities into a pearlescent white manicure.
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Jade dream
Jade’s always been a lucky stone to add to your ensembles for the prosperous occasion, so why not infuse it into your manicures too?
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Bejewelled tips
Amp up on the crimson-inspired glamour for the season—with some bejewelled tips worthy of envy, without being too OTT.
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Spring blooms
To beckon in the spring season that comes with the Lunar New Year, let your nails be the focus of your look. Embrace the zesty spirit of the season in jelly textures and botanical 3D embellishments.
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Yin and yang
A feng shui favourite, the koi fish is one with the mythical potential to transform into a dragon—coincidentally also the zodiac animal of the year. So there’s really no reason not to adopt the auspicious imagery into your talons during this time period.
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Take flight
For an unconventional approach to your manicures, perhaps an avant-garde rendition dreamt up in 3D wings and the gothic shade would completely play into the more menacing side of the powerful zodiac animal.
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A timeless classic
Going for a more traditional look this Lunar New Year? Turn the classic hue on its head and infuse it with an abstract, modern motif—and add on some gold jewellery to tie in the look.
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The Blue Dragon awaits
It’s the Year of the Dragon, or more specifically, the Blue Dragon. In Chinese mythology, blue dragons are signifiers of the East and the incoming spring season—so there’s no reason not to consider its ethereal azure hue for your festive nails.
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A tangerine affair
It may be a little on the nose, but there’s truly no better time to incorporate the fortuitous fruit into your nail art. Cue simple little tangerines, with its vivacious orange giving your nails the pop of colour it needs.
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Two in one
This year’s Lunar New Year festivities are only a few days away from Valentine’s Day, so it only stands to reason that your manicures could hope to encompass them both in one. To that end, opt for something that merges the candy-coloured hues of both occasions—and infuse some playful motifs along the way too.
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Rays of sunshine
One, the glorious scarlet shade isn’t really for you. But two, you’re on the hunt for a manicure that’s still ceremonious. Then sign yourself up for another brilliant set of hues: an amalgamation of yellows, pinks and oranges to adhere to the lucky mood of the season.
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Toothless alert
Peek-a-boo: it’s Toothless! Consider this the rare opportunity that you get to incorporate the adorable How To Train Your Dragon character, and still remain on-theme. The chance only comes once every 12 years, after all.
