Dong Dong Dong Qiang! Red and Prosperous for the arrival of Chinese New Year...

It's the second day of Chinese New Year!

Before I proceed to my post, I would like to thank JustJR, for putting mode-ulation on her list of 2009 mini guide. We express our sincere thanks!
JustJR makes excellent collages that keep up with the trends of the fashion world, her works are a must-see, so do visit her blog: http://blog.justjr.com/

Now, red represents fortune and prosperity in the chinese culture. During this period of the year, children will receive red packets (known as ang pows) from their elders, and red decorations such as firecrakers and couplets will adorn homes.

Everyone would dress in new clothes, preferably of a prosperous shade, that is, red. But not all that is red is Valentino, designers like Diane von Furstenberg, too, sent red down the runways this season. My favourite is this Dolce & Gabbana dress shaped like what else but a red packet!

A simple red shift dress like that of Lanvin is ideal for the occasion ,while a casual red dress is incredibly sexy with black stilettos (John Galliano) and an off-shoulder is really feminine with flowers in your hair (Diane von Furstenberg).

Something more relevant to Chinese New Year is the familiar brocade pattern found on silk (bottom first Andrew Gn), or engravings often seen on pillars of a Buddhist temple (bottom second, Dries van Noten). Take these two runway looks for example -- they're risks worth taking to get into the festive mood!

I really wish to own a dress that gives a twist to traditional chinese culture, and this Jason Wu dress with Chinese paper cut prints would be perfect! Young and feminine, it is a mix of tradition and modernity, ideal for Chinese New Year visitations!!

Runway photos: style.com

Misc. images: Google images

Have a blessed new year!