The Star Malaysia - Star2

In with the bold

Vibrant colours and eye-catching designs welcome the Spring Festival.

- Stories by BERVIN CHEONG star2@thestar.com.my

STILL haven’t gotten around to picking an outfit for Chinese New Year next week? Don’t worry, we have you covered. Here are a few of our favourites picks from department stores that will simply dazzle.

You won’t be able to run away from the colour red, of course. But florals work just as well for the occasion. Gold is another great choice. Nothing says luck and success more than an outfit that shimmers.

In the mood

Parkson draws from the 1960s for its latest campaign. Not the Parisian fashion houses or London’s modernist subculture though. It’s the past “fashion revolution” of China that inspires the looks.

Trim cheongsams, as well as sleek, western-inspired suits – those were the core styling of that era. Something which is now making a comeback, but with modern forms and trendy accessoris­ing.

Just think of Wong Kar Wai’s cinematic masterpiec­e, In The Mood For Love. It’s this award-winning film that inspired Parkson. As seen, the styling bring to life a feel of quiet sexiness.

Take your pick from a range of beautiful cheongsams from brands like Phenomenal and Ethnic Sense. Parkson even has its own in-house label, Mave that offers gorgeous designs in a wide range of colours.

Dresses made from abstract floral patterns are perfect for ladies who want to stand out during Chinese New Year. They look really pretty, yet comfortabl­e enough to be used for day and night parties.

For the men, they can’t go wrong with a traditiona­l Chinese shirt. Choose a maroon, red or gold one for the best effect. Want something a little more modern? Pink shirts are the answer. Pair it with a pullover and you’ll look trendy.

Mix and match

Metrojaya welcomes the Year Of The Rooster with casually chic designs. This simply means they are not only perfect for the festive season, but can also be worn for the rest of the year.

You have Somerset Bay with a range of wardrobe basics. These include floral and lace as the focal point, with attrac- tive T-shirts, maxi dresses and skirts that speak of a more feminine style.

East India Company gives a fashion-forward nod to the traditiona­l Chinese garb. The collection uses a mix of fabrics such as jacquard and neoprene, as well as subtle oriental prints.

Zona may offer simple designs, but uses bold silhouette­s, structured fabrics and clean lines to up the drama. They come together to make each clothing piece elegant and current.

For Emanuelle, the season is all about being vivid. Chinese New Year is also known as the Spring Festival, so mark it by donning fresh colours like pale rose, midnight blue and rich green.

Cape Cod features prints and patterns for people who like to have fun. From lightweigh­t knits to bright dresses and cropped knit tops, the designs can be easily mixed and matched.

 ?? — Parkson ?? Looking gorgeous in a modern cheongsam. The model wears Ness dress, paired with a Daphne handbag, plus Miemoda earrings and bracelet.
— Parkson Looking gorgeous in a modern cheongsam. The model wears Ness dress, paired with a Daphne handbag, plus Miemoda earrings and bracelet.
 ?? — Metrojaya ?? East India Company offers comfortabl­e clothing for get-togethers.
— Metrojaya East India Company offers comfortabl­e clothing for get-togethers.
 ?? — Metrojaya ?? A lovely lace dress from Zona.
— Metrojaya A lovely lace dress from Zona.
 ?? — Parkson ?? On him: Austin Reed shirt and sweater, Volkswagen Selected pants. On her: Ethnic Sense dress, Miemoda Clutch, Bespoke earrings and necklace.
— Parkson On him: Austin Reed shirt and sweater, Volkswagen Selected pants. On her: Ethnic Sense dress, Miemoda Clutch, Bespoke earrings and necklace.
 ?? — Parkson ?? He wears a China Town classic shirt in gold.
— Parkson He wears a China Town classic shirt in gold.
 ?? Photo: Parkson ??
Photo: Parkson
 ??  ??
 ?? — Metrojaya ?? Nothing says Spring like floral prints. Shown here are designs from Somerset Bay.
— Metrojaya Nothing says Spring like floral prints. Shown here are designs from Somerset Bay.

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