Lucky hair colours for CNY 2026: The best shades to try based on your Chinese zodiac

The start of a new year calls for a glow up — and what better way to do it than by tapping into your zodiac’s lucky colour? In Chinese culture, colour symbolism plays a powerful role in attracting prosperity, harmony and success for the year ahead.

Whether you’re drawn to luminous peach fuzz tones, dimensional caramel golds or cool, office-ready browns, consider this your guide to choosing a shade that not only flatters your complexion but also aligns with your fortune. Ahead, the most auspicious hair colours to try for every Chinese zodiac sign.

Rat: Yellow

This “peach fuzz” hue—balanced perfectly between pink and peach—is as universally flattering as it is luminous. Its warm undertones catch and reflect the light, creating the illusion of glossy, mirror-like strands.

Ox: White

This cool-leaning grey adds instant dimension and movement, elevating everything from sharp bobs to long, flowing layers. Versatile and modern, it works beautifully across all hair lengths and styles.

Tiger: Black

We’ve seen countless stars return to their natural shade—and nothing is chicer than inky, raven-black hair worn with confidence. Amp up the shine of your dark strands with a high-gloss treatment or a nourishing hair oil for that light-catching, liquid finish.

Rabbit: Brown 

A timeless, office-appropriate classic, this versatile brown is as low-maintenance as it is flattering—making it ideal for seamless grey coverage. Wear it lighter or deeper to complement your skin tone.

Dragon: Gold 

Take a cue from Blackpink’s Lisa and opt for a sun-kissed caramel hue—rich with warmth yet unmistakably light. The golden tones add radiance and depth, striking the perfect balance between bold and wearable.

Snake: Brown 

Another office-appropriate, bleach-free option, this fuss-free hue subtly elevates virgin and dark brown hair. The result? A richer, glossier finish that creates the illusion of fuller, healthier-looking strands.

Horse: Yellow 

Part copper, part strawberry-toned lightness, this head-turning shade makes a statement while remaining effortlessly wearable. For extra impact, style it in lived-in beachy waves à la Twice’s Nayeon.

Goat: Green 

Admittedly, green—or any bold, unconventional shade—is notoriously tricky to achieve and maintain, but the results are worth every effort—just look at Le Sserafim’s Sakura. Achieving this look usually requires bleaching, and if your hair is dark or chemically treated, it’s best to consult your stylist to find the safest way to get the color with minimal damage.

Monkey: Gold 

Strategically placed lowlights and highlights instantly enhance the texture of lighter strands, adding depth, movement and a more dimensional finish.

Rooster: Brown 

Lee Sung Kyung’s ashy mane strikes the perfect balance between light brown and blonde. This in-between shade brightens the complexion while keeping the overall look soft, cool and effortlessly chic.

Dog: Green

To introduce green without overwhelming the complexion, work with a lighter base — it softens the intensity and makes the shade feel more wearable.

Pig: Yellow 

A cool-leaning brown helps counteract yellow tones while adding soft, muted depth to the hair. To maintain the shade and keep brassiness at bay, use a purple shampoo regularly to neutralise unwanted warmth.