From The Straits Times    |

Photos (L-R): Bimba Y Lola, Salvatore Ferragamo, Cos

 

As the Year of the Pig approaches, brands are dropping their siren red, pig-plastered Chinese New Year-themed collections left right centre – but not all are made the same.

Below, we curate the non-tacky ones – those we would actually buy even in a season when there are no social obligations to be in red, and would work well in our wardrobes long after the festivities are over. Bonus: these collections are usually a departure from a brand’s typical offerings, so you are buying something truly special.

 

1. Cos

Photo: Cos

 

The Swedish brand’s take on CNY is a collection with their signature minimalist designs, but washed in a coat of chilli red.

 

Photos: Cos

 

While simple lines and the lack of embellishments keep these vibrant all-red pieces palatable, Cos also suggests layering them under outerwear, letting the red peek out as just an accent.     

Photo: Cos

 

Alternatively, opt for a red crossbody or clutch from the same collection so you can add a touch of the peppy colour to all your monochrome outfits.

 

2. Tod’s

Photos: Tod’s

 

Tod’s skips the red this year – opting instead for a capsule of mini bags, sneakers and a smartphone holder in the sweetest shade of pale pink.

 

Photos: Tod’s

 

The bags feature the brand’s iconic Gomminos, while the sneakers come with detachable leather wings. The brand has also designed a kitschy leather charm in the shape of a pig, which can be attached to the bag or phone case.

 

3. H&M

 

Photo: H&M

 

Modelled by Chinese stars like celeb couple Yuan Hong and Zhang Xin Yi, and Ma Si Chun with her aunt Jiang Wen Li, H&M’s CNY collection covers all bases with an extensive collection that works for almost every ocassion.

 

Photos: H&M

 

There are comfy hoodie dresses for hosting get-togethers at home, breezy, feminine printed dresses and blouses for a day of house visits, as well as structured work-ready separates for when looking elegant is priority.

 

Photos: H&M

 

Or, pick from its extensive range of accessories, which includes practical crossbody bags, flats, and earrings.

 

4. Bimba Y Lola

 

Photos: Bimba Y Lola

 

Bimba Y Lola stays true to its style, mixing shades of red and powder pink for its playful pig-themed capsule. Perhaps also in a nod to Valentine’s Day, the pig here is a mascot for the darker side of love, appearing on a pair of oversized earrings as an aggrieved creature who declares: “I don’t care” and “I don’t love you”.

 

Photos: Bimba Y Lola

Other pieces in the collection includes crossbody bags, slogan pouches (“Love Hurts!”), a sweater, and a pair of netted flats all in a bright cherry red, all of which we can picture as great year-round staples.   

 

5. Salvatore Ferragamo

 

Photo: Salvatore Ferragamo

 

Salvatore Ferragamo’s limited-edition CNY capsule this year celebrates the festival with elegant leather goods, shoes and silks, modelled proudly by an actual little piglet, which the brand has adorably named Lyli.

 

Photo: Salvatore Ferragamo

 

Above, Lyli models an exclusive floral print scarf that was designed for the line. Named “Auspicious Pig”, it is, well, pig-themed to herald the arrival of the Year of the Pig.

 

ALSO READ: 5 WAYS TO WORK RED INTO YOUR CHINESE NEW YEAR LOOKS