by Nikki Goteanse-Tan
AS the Lunar New Year approaches, a quandary as age-old as the celebration itself will enter the minds of those who are looking forward to this momentous occasion. For those who think that this is a miniscule concern, Chinese belief actually provides some significant insight into why one must find something new to wear and in red, no less.
Legends have it both traditions allude to scaring away evil spirits and driving away bad fortune. Having something new to wear also symbolizes new beginnings. And since people believe that what happens on the day of the New Year is a reflection of how the rest of the year will turn out, it almost becomes mandatory to turn out in your brightest and best.
Even for those of us whose observation of the festivities is de facto, it can boggle the mind to think about how to wear red. If truth be told, only few consider themselves made for this strong hue. Nevertheless, it is advised to always adhere in this case. There is nothing like attracting luck and good tidings for you and yours to serve as motivation. Here are some suggestions on how to do red right this coming Lunar New Year:
Pair red with updated metallics such as copper, rose gold or platinum to avoid looking too dated or too similar to the angpao (red envelopes) that will be making the rounds on the day. There is nothing like wearing your wishes for prosperity on your sleeves than by adding some polish.
Explore other shades of red if the textbook fire-engine hue strikes you as too loud for your taste. Pink or yellow undertones work, but do be careful to avoid dark shades that border on black.
If doing red usually isn’t your thing, try on pieces with updated styles to take the edge off. Go for the fast-favorite asymmetrical style, seek out a frock made edgy with zippers or go for a strong sleeve. Since you already have an eye-popping color to work with, keep things interesting yet simple and nothing overworked.
As Lunar New Year get-togethers are usually family events, do remember to stay on the auspicious and respectable side of things unless you want to give your grandmother or your husband’s family cause for reprimanding you.
Since animal prints are du riguer and it’s the year of a fiercely coated feline, it might be time to consider some baubles inspired by the wild. A tusk here, some fur lining there can work to inject some humor and complement to your outfit.
