Lucky chic

With the Year of The Snake slithering away, and the Year Of The Horse galloping in at full speed, everyone is eagerly in search of ways to usher in a bit more luck this year. 

We all could use a little more of it, after all. According to the Chinese Zodiac, fire is the key element for this year, which points toward intensity, passion, strength and confidence. Marry that with the behavior of a horse, it is also seen as a time of movement, transformation and speed. 

Spring cleaning takes on new meaning, with the mad rush to clear out unwanted and unneeded things, brighten up dark corners and even rearrange furniture. Once that’s done, attention shifts to your closet (or the nearest shopping mall) to make sure your fashion is on point to help you slay your way to a new year that’s abundant in good chi. 

The core color palette for the new year echoes the same energy as the Fire Horse. Red symbolizes joy and protection; gold is prosperity and success; and emerald green represents growth and renewal. Earth tones come in to create balance and stability, while blue brings harmony and tranquility to ensure a truly auspicious season.

Here’s a rundown of the colors, depending on your zodiac sign, that will help ensure you’ve got peak positive energy this year. 

For the Year Of The Ox, Monkey, Snake and Horse, the predominant shades in play are yellow, gold, white and brown. These earth tones symbolize balance and stability, bringing healing energies into your year. 

Imagine cool linen pieces, long summer dresses, accented by chunky accessories in wood and gold, finish with a raffia bag and sandals. 

The last set of zodiac signs — Tiger, Goat, Rooster and Dog — go off the deep end. Deep blue, teal, emerald green and a touch of purple. Colors that speak of strength rooted in harmony. Soothing to the eye, but speak of a quiet confidence and inner power.

These intense hues can run the gamut from femme fatale to whimsical, seen in flowy dresses or a slinky gown. 

Reds, blues and gold are the color palette for the Years of the Pig, Rabbit, Dragon and Rat. Basic colors, worn in not so basic ways. Think a blue power suit to close that major deal, or be the belle of the ball in a long red dress. 

Finish with delicate gold accessories for a polished look.

Clear out, carry on

As the Year Of The Fire Horse is all about forward movement, there are a few things you may want to do without in the style department — at least for now. Top of the list are clothes that may have seen better days, or that you haven’t worn in at least a year. Holding on to these things can mean you are keeping yourself from the greater things that lie ahead. Give them a new lease on life by donating or selling them.

On the other hand, these shoes are made for walking. if they’re just sitting in your cabinet, it’s time to let them go. The new year is all about taking the next step, and you’re going to need the right shoes for it. Check these old soles, and toss whatever may be worse for wear, and share the rest. You need those good shoes on your feet to get you running at full speed.

At the end of the day, life and luck is really what you make of it. But if a few stylish tweaks here and there can push you a little further ahead, then that’s always a good thing. Since the Year Of The Fire Horse is also all about self-expression, then you’ve also got permission to get creative with it. Gong Xi Fa Xai!