Lunar New Year, or Chinese New Year, is one of the most important celebrations in Chinese culture. Every year, when Lunar New Year arrives, we see the color red everywhere, from lanterns and red envelopes (angpao), home decorations, to the clothes people wear. Red seems to be the main symbol of this celebration. But why is red so closely associated with the Lunar New Year? And which Chinese New Year colours should be avoided during the celebration? Find out the explanation here!

Why Colors Matter in Chinese New Year Traditions

In Chinese culture, colors are believed to influence energy, luck, and emotional balance. During Lunar New Year, families carefully choose decorations, gifts, and clothing colors to attract prosperity and avoid bad luck. That’s why understanding Chinese New Year colours is essential, especially if you’re attending family gatherings, temple visits, or festive celebrations.

Lucky Colours for Chinese New Year

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There are several colours that is considered “lucky” for Chinese New Year, which are:

1. Red: The Ultimate Symbol of Luck

Red is widely recognized as the lucky colour for Chinese New Year. It represents happiness, success, protection, and good fortune. Traditionally, red is believed to ward off evil spirits and bad luck.

This is why red dominates Lunar New Year celebrations, from angpao envelopes and lanterns to outfits and accessories. Wearing red is highly encouraged, especially on the first day of the new year.

2. Gold and Yellow: Wealth and Prosperity

Gold and yellow symbolize wealth, abundance, and power. These colors are often associated with royalty and success, making them excellent choices for Lunar New Year outfit colours. If you want something festive but less bold than red, gold or yellow accents are a great alternative.

3. Green: Growth and Renewal

Green represents renewal, harmony, and growth. As a color associated with nature and balance, green works well for those who want a calmer yet positive look for Chinese New Year.

It’s especially suitable for modern Lunar New Year outfit colours that feel fresh and understated.

Best Lunar New Year Outfit Colours to Wear

If you’re unsure how to combine tradition with personal style, here are safe and stylish Lunar New Year outfit colour ideas:

• Red dress with gold accents for a classic festive look.
• Soft pink or coral for a modern yet auspicious feel.
• Green paired with neutral tones for elegance.
• Red accessories (bags, shoes, scarves) if you prefer neutral clothing.

These combinations allow you to respect tradition without compromising comfort or fashion preferences.

CNY Outfit Recommendations:

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What Colour is Taboo on Chinese New Year

Beyond the general advice of wearing bright, auspicious colors, there are specific shades traditionally discouraged during Chinese New Year celebrations. Let’s explore each one in detail:

1. White: A Color Linked to Mourning and Loss

In Chinese tradition, white is closely connected to death, funerals, and periods of mourning. Unlike Western customs, where black is typically worn to express grief, many East Asian cultures, including China, associate white with bereavement. It is common to see white used in funeral rituals, such as coffin coverings or mourning attire like armbands and headpieces.

Because of these associations, wearing white during Chinese New Year is often considered inappropriate, as it clashes with the joyful and celebratory spirit of the occasion. Light or off-white clothing is best avoided unless it is paired with vibrant red elements. If you do choose pale tones, incorporating bold red accessories, such as scarves, jewelry, or footwear, can help offset the negative symbolism and restore a festive balance.

2. Black: Associated with Bad Luck and Formal Mourning

While black has become a modern fashion staple globally, in traditional Chinese symbolism, it represents darkness, negativity, and sometimes death. Although its association with mourning is less intense than white, black is still considered an inauspicious color during Chinese New Year.

Many believe that wearing black could attract bad luck or dampen the joyful energy of the festivities. Families aim to start the new year with positivity, so dark tones like black are best left out of holiday wardrobes. That said, if worn in small amounts as trim, belts, or footwear, it may be acceptable, especially when paired with dominant red or gold elements.

3. Blue: Mixed Symbolism, Often Seen as Cold or Sad

Blue has mixed meanings in Chinese culture. While it isn’t strictly forbidden like white or black, darker shades such as navy are often associated with coldness, sadness, or instability qualities that clash with the hopeful spirit of the New Year. Lighter blues are more neutral but still lack the warmth and festive energy expected during Chinese New Year, making brighter colors a better choice.

4. Gray: Neutrality and Lack of Energy

Gray is generally avoided during Chinese New Year because it lacks vibrancy and can symbolize dullness, stagnation, or low energy. Since the festival emphasizes renewal and progress, wearing gray, especially as a full outfit is discouraged. Softer, warmer tones like pink, peach, or warm beige are better alternatives that still feel elegant and auspicious.

Choosing the right Chinese New Year colours is about honoring tradition, welcoming good fortune, and starting the year with positive energy. Red, gold, and green remain timeless symbols of luck and prosperity, while black and white are best avoided as main outfit colors.

By understanding lunar new year outfit colours, lucky colour for Chinese New Year, and forbidden colours for Chinese New Year, you can celebrate with confidence, respect, and style.

Dress well, choose wisely, and welcome the Lunar New Year with optimism and good fortune.