The Lunar New Year is one of the biggest holidays of the year, celebrated widely around the world. It is a time for new beginnings, to let go of the past and usher in prosperity and success. Century-old traditions see people dressed in red whilst they hang scarlet wreaths and lanterns in their homes, a practice that is believed to ward off evil spirits. Children and young single adults rejoice at the thought of receiving red packets when they pay their respects to the elders, a token of good luck and fortune for the year ahead.
Lunar New Year celebrations are also a time for everyone to get dressed up in brand new clothing, another practice that emphasises the idea of change and beginnings. Earlier in the year we saw Ferragamo unveil their Chinese New Year collection with bold prints of the rabbit on an assortment of silk scarves and cotton shirts. Brands such as Acne Studios, Max Mara and Moschino have decidedly chosen to infuse the motif of this demure animal within their Chinese New Year capsule collections as well, no doubt with bright red and orange colour palettes.
If you celebrate the holiday, it is time to start giving some thought to the festive ensemble you are donning on the first day. Below, Vogue has curated four looks that are not only ideal for the festivities, but will have you looking your best to welcome the year ahead.
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Keep it casual: Off White cropped T-Shirt, $340
While one may be tempted to pull off the most extravagant of looks, Lunar New Year festivities often get chaotic. Opt for a simpler, muted outfit that still exudes taste with a perfectly-fitted cropped shirt from Off White, paired with Bode trousers that feature exquisite floral embroidery in the perfect shade of red. Black boots are a staple in any wardrobe, and this leather pair from Givenchy is no exception.
Available at SSENSE.
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Keep it casual: Givenchy padlock-detail boots, $1,764
Available at Farfetch.
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Dress to impress: Loewe leather-trimmed denim jacket, $1,991
For those who always look to make a statement, this get up is for you. This Loewe denim jacket features an elongated back that provides a unique shape to the wearer, balanced perfectly with a wide-legged number from Song For The Mute. The pastel blue of the Jacquemus mules and jubilant red of the Sunshine shopper minibag from Fendi cohesively brings the outfit together, perfect accessories for any festive occasion.
Available at Net-a-Porter.
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Dress to impress: Song For The Mute pink wide-legged trousers, $785
Available at SSENSE.
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Dress to impress: Jacquemus blue 'Les Mules Bricciola' mules, $740
Available at SSENSE.
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Dress to impress: Fendi Sunshine Shopper minibag, $2,490
Available at Fendi.
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A pop of colour: Gentle Monster Rococo 01 sunglasses, $467
Not everybody loves dressing up in bright cheerful tones. There is something effortlessly cool and considered about an all-black outfit, where the beauty lies in the cut and details. Brunello Cucinelli’s take on a midi shirtdress is classic and timeless, while Prada’s Monolith loafers and Gentle Monster’s sunglasses add a contemporary twist. Finish up the look with the Candy Arco tote bag from Bottega Veneta which provides a fun splash of colour.
Available at Gentle Monster.
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A pop of colour: Brunello Cucinelli midi shirt dress, $3,768
Available at Net-a-Porter.
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A pop of colour: Prada brushed leather Monolith loafers, $1,870
Available at Prada.
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A pop of colour: Bottega Veneta Candy Arco tote bag, $3,400
Available at Bottega Veneta.
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Stun in all red: Prada red satin headband, $790
If monochrome is your thing—or you are feeling especially joyous this festive period—an all red ensemble may be just what the doctor ordered. This chic embroidered floral dress from Carolina Herrera could not be more suitable, and the Valentino leather pumps and Prada satin headband spices up the otherwise safe approach. To top it all off, cop a cute scrunch clutch from Jil Sander to hold all your red packets.
Available at Prada.
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Stun in all red: Carolina Herrera embroidered floral dress, $3,584
Available at Farfetch.
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Stun in all red: Valentino Garavani patent leather pumps, $1,395
Available at Saks Fifth Avenue.
