4 Ways to repurpose your LNY looks for Valentines

Valentine’s Day arrives on the heels of Chinese New Year celebrations, and your wardrobe has likely been refreshed with new pieces perfect for repurposing. That red qipao-inspired dress that turned heads at family gatherings can transform into a romantic evening statement with just a switch of accessories – trade the jade for delicate pearls, or swap the flats for sleek heels. The red silk blouse you wore for New Year visits could become the centerpiece of a chic Valentine’s lunch outfit when paired with the right accessories. Even that modern mandarin collar top can shift from festive to flirty when styled with a leather skirt and dainty necklaces.

The beauty lies in the shared color palette between these celebrations. The auspicious reds of CNY naturally align with Valentine’s Day’s carmine hues, from deep crimsons to soft rose tones. That metallic red clutch from reunion dinners? Perfect for a candlelit dinner date. The red satin pants from your New Year ensemble? They’ll look just as striking paired with a soft white blouse for a Valentine’s cocktail evening.

This transition between celebrations not only maximizes your wardrobe but also brings an elegant cultural fusion to your Valentine’s Day style. After all, why should these beautiful pieces only see the light of day during the festive season?

Here are some classic CNY outfits that can be repurposed into an alluring Valentines evening outfit.

1. Romanticising the Qipao

CNY Look: Qipao with gold earrings and ballet flats.

Valentine’s Twist: Throw on a black lace or silk bolero and sexy heels for a bit of drama.

2. Add some sass to the silk blouse

CNY Look: Silk mandarin collar blouse paired with white pants and traditional gold accessories.

Valentine’s Twist: Tuck the blouse into a high-waisted black leather pencil skirt. Statement silver jewelry and ankle boots for an edgy touch to an elegant look.

3. Give some extra love to your trousers

CNY Look: Red satin palazzo trousers with a traditional brocade top and jade bangles

Valentine’s Twist: Pair it with an off-shoulder cream sweater, delicate gold chains and pointed heels for a contemporary romantic look.

4. A cute update to a Cheongsam-inspired dress

CNY Look: Modern cheongsam paired with flats and dainty gold jewellery.

Valentine’s Twist: Strappy sandals, a dainty bracelet stack, along with a heart clutch to complete the look.