Instead of solid colours like red, why not play it up with some prints? Have a go at something fun apart from the regular floral prints you find at CNY gatherings. 

And while red is known as an auspicious colour, there are other lucky colours for you too. Have a go at these colours (according to your Chinese zodiac sign) if you’re not vibing with red this CNY. 

Rat – red, yellow
Ox – pink
Tiger – gray
Rabbit – pink, yellow
Dragon – red, ruby, gray
Snake – light yellow
Horse – white and silver
Goat – gray
Monkey – yellow and bright pink
Rooster – pink and blue
Dog – yellow
Pig – bright red and yellow

An option to looking fresh this CNY without red would be to steer closer to warmer hues. Oranges, yellows and nude neutrals are a good option for the festive season. Ps, the colour yellow is meant to also signify good luck – so have at it!

While some may frown upon black-and-white outfits during the CNY season, one hack is to accessorise with a pop of colour. Not only will it bring your outfit to the next level, but it’ll also save you from the stares of disapproving relatives.

What better way to usher in the Year of the Rat this year than with a mouse print itself? Gucci’s done it with Mickey Mouse, Zara did it with Tom & Jerry – so you should get in on the trend, stat. 

Leather and canvas saddle bag, $2,900