Global Tradition: Wearing Red Underwear for Luck During Lunar New Year
As the Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, February 17, individuals around the world are being urged to wear red underwear as part of a longstanding cultural tradition. This practice is particularly significant for those experiencing their zodiac year, which occurs every twelve years, as it is believed to ward off bad luck and provide protection throughout the coming year.
Cultural Significance Across Multiple Regions
The custom of wearing red underwear at the start of the new year extends beyond Chinese traditions. In Italy, Spain, and various Latin American countries, this vibrant garment is considered essential for attracting good fortune, romance, joy, success, and overall luck. The color red has historically been associated with positive energy and prosperity in numerous cultures.
Recent research conducted by lingerie brand Pour Moi reveals that nearly one-third of adults own at least one pair of lucky underwear. Additionally, online searches for Chinese New Year underwear have surged by fifty percent over the past three months, indicating growing interest in this tradition.
Expert Insights on the Phenomenon
Emma Woodrow, a lingerie buyer at Pour Moi with over a decade of industry experience, commented on the trend. Across history, red has been worn as a colour to invite good luck, and keep negative energy at bay, she explained. In Italy, it’s a New Year’s Eve must-have, with many believing that wearing red underwear will bring luck, love, fertility, and happiness for the new year.
Woodrow further noted that red plays a crucial role in Lunar New Year celebrations, where it is widely linked to good fortune and protection. In February, we often see a spike in sales for red underwear, when online searches are fifty-four percent higher than average, she said. While much of this can be attributed to Valentine’s Day sales, it may also reflect the timing of the Lunar New Year during this period.
She added, It’s interesting how universal the idea of ‘lucky’ underwear has become. Whether it’s for the New Year, a big event, or simply a confidence boost, so many people seem to like the idea that what they’re wearing underneath can set the tone for what’s ahead!
Identifying Your Zodiac Year
The Horse is the relevant zodiac sign for individuals born in specific years. If you were born in 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942, or 1930, this tradition applies directly to you. However, even those without these birth years can participate, as the practice is believed to offer benefits to anyone seeking good luck and positive energy for the new year.
This global embrace of red underwear highlights how cultural traditions can transcend borders, uniting people in shared rituals of hope and prosperity. Whether for spiritual reasons or personal confidence, the act of wearing red underwear serves as a symbolic gesture to welcome a fortunate and protected year ahead.
