RED LEAVES GREENFORGOLD

Amonth ago, red vividly matched with green marked the Christmas season. The colour code is commonly perceived as evoking berries and an evergreen tree while historically it has other associations.

Red has now evidently swapped partners, pairing with gold for an auspicious palette. According to Chinese tradition, red can ward off evil spirits while gold represents wealth.

Appearing everywhere, from apparel and envelops to lanterns and shop displays, the lucky colour scheme rings in the Lunar New Year, which falls on Jan 28.

Synonymous with the trench coat, Burberry also has joined the celebrations with a selection of red and gold items to accessorise the new outfit traditionally worn on the first day of the Spring Festival

Those dressing in red shouldn’t miss out on making a fashion statement with a co-ordinating Burberry Patchwork Bag designed with a buckle and thick shoulder sling.

Introduced on the runway last February, the iconic bag features a tapestry of colours, textures, fabrics and details that make each one unique. Recalling the brand’s British roots, each bag is named after a British town, village or street, with the name engraved on a gold plaque inside the bag.

The lightweight Rucksack comes in gold with a black trim that harmonises with the Year of the Fire Rooster. Also in black with gold trim, the functional bag features matching pouches in nylon for the women’s version and in leather for the men’s.

Monogramming service is available for a customised carryall, with the gold lettering sourced from an 18th century British embroidery specialist.

For a personalised gift, the monogramming can go on Scottish-woven cashmere scarves, which can also be adorned with crystals, multi-coloured embroidered thread and special characters while wallets and key charms can be embossed in a choice of foil colours.

Burberry gift assortments for the Chinese New Year are available at stores and online at www.burberry.com.