As Chinese New Year approaches, many of us turn to colours not just for celebration, but for meaning. In Chinese culture, colours carry symbolism, believed to invite harmony, confidence, protection, and good fortune into the year ahead.
2026 is the Year of the Horse, a zodiac associated with movement, vitality, independence, and growth. The auspicious colours for this year reflect these energies, encouraging balance while supporting momentum.
This guide shares the key auspicious colours for 2026, what they symbolise, and how to wear them gently in everyday life, without needing to dress head-to-toe in festive shades.
Auspicious colours are traditionally believed to carry positive energy, often linked to the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water). During Chinese New Year, these colours are worn to align oneself with favourable energies for the coming year.
Whether or not you follow these beliefs closely, many people enjoy incorporating auspicious colours as a way to mark intention, renewal, and hope, even in subtle, modern ways.
RedSymbolism: Prosperity, protection, vitality
Red remains a core colour during Chinese New Year, symbolising joy and positive beginnings. In 2026, red represents courage and forward movement, qualities closely associated with the Horse.
How to wear it:
Instead of bold red outfits, consider small accents, a pair of earrings, a floral detail, or a warm-toned accessory that adds confidence without overpowering your look.
PinkSymbolism: Harmony, relationships, gentleness
Pink softens the intensity of red and is associated with emotional balance and connection. It’s a comforting colour that brings warmth and approachability.
How to wear it:
Pink works beautifully in delicate accessories, floral jewellery, soft blush accents, or pastel combinations that feel calm and wearable beyond the festive season.
Gold & YellowSymbolism: Wealth, clarity, abundance
Gold and yellow represent success, optimism, and prosperity. In 2026, these colours reflect clarity of direction and self-belief.
How to wear it:
Gold doesn’t have to be loud. Gold-toned jewellery, subtle metallic finishes, or small details paired with neutral outfits can feel refined and timeless.
BlueSymbolism: Stability, wisdom, calm
Blue brings balance to the Horse’s energetic nature. It represents grounding, clarity of thought, and steady growth.
How to wear it:
Blue is ideal for everyday wear, from soft sky tones to deeper hues. It pairs beautifully with neutrals and works well in understated accessories.
Auspicious colours don’t need to be worn boldly to be meaningful. Many people choose to incorporate them through:
Jewellery and accessories
Small pops of colour in daily outfits
Thoughtful gifts for loved ones (Fortune Puffs)
Accessories allow colour to feel personal rather than performative, something you carry with you quietly, rather than something you have to announce.
This is where handcrafted pieces can feel especially meaningful, as each detail is intentional and made to last beyond the festive period. If you enjoy incorporating meaning through small details, you may enjoy exploring our CNY-inspired floral jewellery, created to be worn beyond the festive season.
Auspicious colours are ultimately about intention. Whether you believe strongly in their symbolism or simply enjoy the beauty behind them, they can serve as a small reminder to move into the new year with purpose, confidence, and care.
May 2026 bring you clarity, warmth, and moments of quiet joy.
My first market at Sentosa Festive Market has come to an end, and I just wanted to pause and say thank you.
This was my first time setting up here at Palawan Beach, and I am really grateful for how welcoming the whole experience was. Thank you to everyone who stopped by, whether you came to browse, chat, support, or simply share a kind word. Every conversation meant more than you probably realise, especially as a small handmade brand.
The vibes here were something else. The sea breeze, the sunset, the relaxed energy. It made the long days feel lighter. Knowing that this was one of their second last markets at this location makes it feel a little bittersweet. I will definitely miss this space and what it represents.
What stood out most were the people. I met so many genuinely lovely souls, fellow makers, organisers, and visitors. Those small, human moments are what stay with me long after a market ends.
Thank you, Sentosa Festive Market, for the opportunity and the memories. And thank you to everyone who showed up, in big and small ways 🤍
