With Chinese New Year right around the corner, tis’ the season to dress to impress. Of course anything red’s a safe bet, but what if we told you that there’s a better alternative?
Since fashion designers have constantly drawn on Asian influences as a source of inspiration (dating as far back to the 17th century, but notably, the late Yves Saint Laurent’s 1977 Chinese collection), chinoiserie chic has always been a near-constant. So, rather than choosing vermilion, carmine and scarlet for your Lunar New Year ensembles, why not opt for oriental-inspired fashion pieces instead?
From brocade and embroidery to oriental motifs, we’ve cherry picked best chinoiserie-style numbers that will elevate your look during house visits this year.
Bold and feminine, Valentino’s iconic Rockstud purse has been given an oriental twist this season. Featuring reddish tone beading and embroidery, rock this ornate accessory with a floral printed number for maximum impact.
Available at both the Ion Orchard and Marina Bay Sands Valentino boutiques.
Made out of flower and tassel motifs that is reminiscent of a vintage silk carre (scarf), this pair of trousers is all about East meets West. Don this statement piece with a simple white T-shirt during Chinese New Year.
Drawing inspiration from old kung fu movies, Kenzo has fashioned a Chinese martial arts motif into a poster print on this white cotton tee. Do as the street style pack and pair it with a floral or leopard printed midi skirt.
Birger Christensen, the creative head behind Rotate, drew references from ’80s America and ’60s China, where puffed shoulder dresses were infused with elements from a traditional cheongsam. Wear this jacquard piece with a pair of mid-heel sandals and a wide brim straw hat.
Embroidered with floral and fauna and complete with pussybow collar, this baby blue chiffon blouse screams girlish sensibilities. Take it to the next station by dressing this piece with a pleated skirt and a pair of stilettos.
Add a tinge of sparkle on your ears with this elegant pair of earrings. Stylishly mismatched and in a bright hue, these will pop against a simple white dress.
Hop onto the varsity chic bandwagon, if you’ve yet to do so. Opt for a baseball jacket with statement oversized sleeve details to add a touch of quirkiness. Let this bold jacket be the centre of attention by pairing it with a clean top and jeans.
If you’re looking for something timeless yet head-turning, this Mary Katrantzou dress will do the trick. Featuring her iconic kaleidoscopic patterns, this jacquard dress incorporates hints of Orientalism and Neo-romanticism — a definite stand out if worn with a simple pair of black soles.
Classy and sophisticated, this figure-hugging ’60s style cheongsam will definitely impress your relatives and in-laws. Add a dose of gravitas by wearing this number with a pair of statement earrings and some sleek, sculptural heels for a touch of the contemporary.
Alessandro Michele pays homage to Chinese culture with this cotton-velvet baseball cap embroidered with a dragon. Dress this headgear up with an oversized T-shirt and a pair of wide-leg trousers.
Inspired by interior design, the fabric choice is reminiscent of luxurious Asian upholster furniture. The orangey-red rope belt adds an unexpected pop of fun, which will look stunning when worn with a pair of camel pants.
Inspired by Simone Rocha’s Chinese heritage, the this silk midi skirt’s red embroidered floral design checks the CNY box. Wear this with a red tee and brogues.