My Hong Kong | How to have an extra lucky Lunar New Year: red underwear and a loan from the Goddess of Mercy
- Red is an important colour in Chinese culture, linked to luck and life, and at Lunar New Year you can see it everywhere
- To increase your luck in the Year of the Tiger, follow these tips, and don’t forget – the more you give, the more you get
I burst out laughing when I saw the words “bright red underwear for Chinese New Year” in a promotional email I received the other day. It was as if a divine power from above was reminding me that it is time to prepare for the Lunar New Year.
It is no joke that Chinese people take the colour red very seriously, especially during the Lunar New Year period. It also takes centre stage during other significant occasions including birthdays, a business deal being negotiated, or even when playing mahjong.
In Chinese culture, red, black, and white are considered the three main “essential” colours.
Red – the most popular – symbolises life and its many positive aspects. Therefore, it is often associated with the vitality of life, happiness, as well as wealth, luck, and success.
With the Lunar New Year fast approaching, clothing stalls in street markets are displaying a variety of red underwear (for both men and women) in a manner akin to the red lanterns hung in streets and walkways. Some of these undies are emblazoned with Chinese characters and patterns depicting luck and fortune.
