If you want to celebrate the Lunar New Year with clothes you made or customized, these Lunar New Year Inspired DIY Outfits bring festive color and personal touches to familiar pieces. I picked looks that are easy to adapt at home—sewing simple trims, adding ribbon sashes, or painting a motif on denim.
They work for family gatherings, casual visits to temples, or a photoshoot with lanterns.
Consider fabric weight for the weather, pick bright reds and gold accents for tradition, and choose silhouettes that flatter your shape so you feel confident all day.
Red Silk Cheongsam with Sneakers
This take pairs a classic red silk cheongsam silhouette with white canvas sneakers to keep movement easy during long celebrations. Use a charmeuse or silk-look rayon for drape, and add a hidden side zip for comfort. If sewing a full cheongsam feels daunting, convert a fitted dress with a high collar and frog closures made from braided cord. The contrast between glossy silk and casual sneakers gives a modern, youthful energy while still honoring traditional color and collar details.
How to Style This Look
- Wear low-profile sneakers in neutral white to balance the sheen of silk
- Add a slim braided belt that echoes frog closure color
- Keep jewelry minimal—small gold studs or a thin chain
Gold-Trimmed Jacket and Culottes
This look uses a cropped jacket with gold braid along the hems and roomy culottes in a matching tone. Choose midweight brocade or cotton-linen blend for structure; gold trim can be sewn or attached with fusible tape for an easy finish. Culottes keep air flowing and look elegant when paired with a tucked silk camisole. The shorter jacket length draws attention to the waist; add a decorative knot belt for an extra festive touch that can be removed for relaxed moments.
How to Style This Look
- Select a camisole in cream or ochre to warm the palette
- Swap flats for low block heels to elongate the leg line
- Add a slim clutch in matte red to ground the metallics
Embroidered Bomber and Straight Jeans
Take a classic bomber jacket and add hand or machine embroidery featuring peonies or koi for a personal accent. Choose a satin-faced nylon or silk blend bomber that accepts embroidery well; unstructured straight-leg jeans keep the look casual. For color balance, pick thread colors in red, coral, and gold. This outfit is great for daytime family visits—embroidery adds meaningful detail without over-formality, and jeans keep it comfy. Edge the cuffs with a narrow red piping for a cohesive finish.
How to Style This Look
- Roll the jacket sleeves slightly to show embroidered wrist detail
- Pair with ankle boots or loafers to elevate denim
- Carry a small crossbody bag in complementary red or tan
Satin Wrap Top with Wide Leg
A satin wrap top in deep red pairs beautifully with high-waist wide-leg trousers for a flattering silhouette. Use bias-cut satin for a gentle drape across the body and finish the wrap with a detachable sash. Trousers in a wool-blend or crepe add structure that balances the top’s fluidity. This combination moves easily from afternoon family dinners to evening visits; add a lightweight shawl if it’s cool. Focus on clean seams and a well-pressed sash to keep the DIY look polished.
How to Style This Look
- Tuck the front slightly into the waistband for a tailored look
- Choose low block heels to maintain comfort without sacrificing posture
- Add a simple gold hairpin to echo warm accents
Mandarin-Collar Shirt Dress
A shirt dress with a mandarin collar is an easy base for DIY embellishment—add contrast piping, hand-stitched frogs, or batik motifs along the hem. Midweight cotton-poplin works well for structure and breathability. The straight silhouette is flattering across many body shapes; cinch at the waist with a fabric belt or removable sash for variation. Wear with sheer tights or bare legs depending on weather. The collar keeps the look culturally inspired without feeling costume-like.
How to Style This Look
- Swap the belt for a brocade sash when attending a more formal gathering
- Layer a fitted sweater underneath for chillier days
- Choose low heels or mules for easy movement
Velvet Blazer and Slim Trousers
Velvet brings a luxe feel without much fuss—pair a single-breasted velvet blazer in oxblood or forest green with slim tailored trousers. A knit shell or silk blouse underneath keeps the outfit comfortable. For DIY accents, sew a narrow gold braid along the lapels or add embroidered cuffs. Velvet shows texture best under soft light, so choose matte accessories to avoid competing shine. This ensemble suits evening family dinners and photo moments where a slightly dressed-up look is welcome.
How to Style This Look
- Keep the blouse tucked for a clean waistline
- Polish shoes in a muted leather to complement velvet’s texture
- Add a pocket square in a small floral print for visual interest
Paperbag Waist Skirt Set
A paperbag waist skirt paired with a cropped blouse creates a relaxed silhouette that still reads festive when made in red or rust. Choose cotton-sateen or lightweight denim for the skirt; add a wide sash stitched to the waistband rather than a separate belt for easier DIY. The gathered waist flatters many figures by highlighting the smallest part of the torso. Top with a lightweight knit or embroidered blouse and slip on flats or ankle boots depending on how formal the event feels.
How to Style This Look
- Keep the sash long and let one end drape for visual movement
- Balance volume with a fitted upper layer or tuck-in blouse
- Layer delicate bracelets on the wrist opposite the sash
Layered Red Cardigan over Slip Dress
Layering a chunky knit cardigan over a bias-cut slip dress blends comfort with celebration-ready color. Use a mohair blend or chunky wool for the cardigan to create a cozy contrast against a silk or satin slip. For DIY, sew a small pocket on the cardigan with embroidered initials or add a removable brooch. This is a forgiving silhouette for mixed activities—easy to move in, warm enough with tights, and adaptable by swapping the slip for trousers if desired.
How to Style This Look
- Belt the cardigan at the waist to create shape if needed
- Wear opaque tights in deep charcoals for cooler weather
- Choose delicate gold jewelry to complement warm hues
Brocade Crop Jacket and High-Waist Pants
Brocade fabric is ideal for an elevated DIY crop jacket—pair it with high-waist tapered pants in a muted tone to keep the jacket as the focal point. Use a hidden hook-and-eye closure to preserve the jacket’s streamlined front, and line the jacket for comfort. High-waist pants in crepe or suiting wool balance brocade’s pattern without competing visually. This pairing works well for evening gatherings when you want a refined appearance with traditional texture cues.
How to Style This Look
- Keep pants hemmed to skim the ankle for modern proportions
- Add a thin gold belt if the jacket is slightly cropped
- Select pointed flats or kitten heels for a polished finish
Linen Tang Jacket with Shorts
A lightweight tang-style jacket in linen is a summer-friendly approach; pair it with tailored Bermuda shorts in a coordinating hue. Use natural linen for breathability and add hand-stitched frog buttons as a decorative nod. The shorter sleeves of the jacket work well with warmer climates and allow layered bracelets to peek out. Keep sandals or espadrilles on hand for daytime events. This combination keeps traditional lines but reads casual and approachable for daytime gatherings or outdoor family meals.
How to Style This Look
- Roll the jacket sleeves to a three-quarter length for relaxed polish
- Choose sandals with subtle metallic accents to echo button color
- Add a woven straw bag for a daytime finish
Chenille Sweater and A-Line Skirt
Chenille or plush knit sweaters give a soft, celebratory feel when matched with an A-line midi skirt in jacquard or matte satin. The contrast between fuzzy knit and structured skirt fabric creates interest while keeping comfort. Add a sewn-on ribbon at the sweater hem in a contrasting color to tie in with the skirt. This look is versatile for indoor family meals or visiting elders, offering warmth without sacrificing a dressed-up silhouette. Keep accessories subtle for a gentle, homey aesthetic.
How to Style This Look
- Tuck the sweater front slightly into the skirt to define the waist
- Wear low-heeled boots or loafers for stability
- Add a narrow neck scarf if you want extra pattern
Metallic Pleated Midi Skirt
A metallic pleated midi skirt in muted gold or bronze brings light and movement to celebration outfits. Pair it with a fitted knit top in deep red or cream; choose a ribbed cotton or silk-blend for contrast against the skirt’s sheen. For a DIY spin, attach a narrow embroidered band at the waist or paint delicate motifs along a couple of pleats. The skirt catches candlelight and lantern glow—great for evening gatherings—while remaining easy to walk and sit in.
How to Style This Look
- Choose a tucked top to highlight the pleated waist
- Wear block heels or heeled mules for graceful movement
- Keep clutch or bag compact to avoid covering the skirt
Knotted Scarf Top with Jeans
A patterned silk scarf transformed into a knotted top is an accessible DIY that nods to traditional motifs. Pair with high-rise straight jeans for a balanced look—choose dark indigo for contrast. Secure the scarf with small, discreet snaps or a tidy knot so it sits confidently through the day. Add a lightweight blazer for more coverage when visiting elders. This outfit blends celebratory color with casual ease, great for daytime visits, markets, or photo moments with friends.
How to Style This Look
- Use a neutral camisole underneath if you want extra coverage
- Choose low-heeled ankle boots for a cohesive silhouette
- Add small hoop earrings to finish the look
Red Tailored Coat and Turtleneck
A bright red tailored coat layered over a slim turtleneck creates a streamlined, festive outerwear look. Use a wool-blend for warmth and structure; add a hidden inner pocket for small essentials during celebrations. A neutral turtleneck in cream or black keeps the focus on the coat, while cropped trousers or a pencil skirt underneath maintain clean lines. This ensemble is ideal for cooler climates and looks great when paired with a decorative brooch or a silk pocket square at the lapel.
How to Style This Look
- Button the coat mid-way on windy days to retain shape
- Match gloves to the turtleneck for a cohesive palette
- Wear slim boots to maintain a long vertical line
Floral Broderie Top with Jeans
Broderie anglaise or floral eyelet tops bring a delicate texture that pairs casually with straight or boyfriend jeans. Choose cotton broderie for breathability and add a contrasting ribbon threaded through the waist or neckline as a subtle motif. The top reads fresh and celebratory without heavy embellishment, making it great for family brunch or daytime outings. Hem the jeans intentionally raw or cuffed to keep the look approachable; add a woven belt to tie fabrics together.
How to Style This Look
- Wear a fitted camisole beneath if the broderie is openwork
- Choose loafers or espadrilles for an easy-going finish
- Add a small woven bag to enhance the casual vibe
DIY Embellished Denim Jacket
Turn a classic denim jacket into a festive piece with embroidered motifs, fabric paint, or appliqué patches in red and gold. Use medium-weight denim and keep embellishments concentrated on the back panel or along the shoulders to avoid overwhelming the silhouette. Pair with a simple knit dress or chinos to let the jacket lead. This project is ideal for makers who want a wearable keepsake—try stitching small symbols by hand or using iron-on transfers for speed.
How to Style This Look
- Balance heavy embellishment with plain bottoms to avoid visual clutter
- Layer over a monochrome dress for an easy focal point
- Choose neutral sneakers or boots for everyday wearability
Silk Pyjama-Inspired Co-ord Set
A pyjama-style co-ord set in silk charmeuse gives a relaxed, luxe feel—think boxy top with piping and matching straight trousers. Choose piping in contrasting gold or black to frame the silhouette. For DIY, add embroidered cuffs or a custom collar emblem for personality. This set works well for intimate family gatherings at home where comfort is key but you still want to look put together. Slip-on mules and a slim chain bracelet finish the look without weighing it down.
How to Style This Look
- Keep the top slightly untucked for a carefree vibe
- Use satin-lined slippers or mules for indoor comfort
- Add a slim belt to swap the silhouette when desired
Puffy Sleeve Blouse and Pencil Skirt
A blouse with puffy sleeves in cotton poplin or organza paired with a midi pencil skirt blends romantic detail with classic tailoring. Puff sleeves add a celebratory silhouette without much fiddly sewing—use elastic casing or gentle gathers at the shoulder. The pencil skirt in crepe or suiting fabric keeps the outfit balanced and is forgiving when sitting through long meals. Add a narrow ribbon tied as a choker or a bow at the blouse neck for an added handcrafted accent.
How to Style This Look
- Keep the skirt waist high to support the volume above
- Wear pointed flats or low heels to elongate the line
- Opt for a muted clutch so the sleeves remain the star
High-Neck Lace Dress and Boots
A high-neck lace dress in a jewel tone offers a vintage feel; pair it with ankle boots for modern contrast. Choose a lined lace to avoid transparency and add a detachable waist sash in satin for a DIY flourish. Lace works well for small celebration gatherings and photos where texture reads beautifully in natural light. Keep makeup and accessories soft to let the fabric details show. If the lace feels precious, layer a cropped jacket for protection and warmth between events.
How to Style This Look
- Use a satin sash tied at the back for a cleaner front silhouette
- Select boots with a modest heel for comfort and style
- Keep jewelry minimal to avoid competing with lace texture
Satin Cowl Neck Top and Trousers
A satin cowl neck top offers effortless drape and pairs well with structured trousers for contrast. Choose a satin with a matte finish to avoid glare in photos; pair with high-waist tailored trousers in crepe for balance. For DIY detail, sew a small embroidered motif near the hem or add a decorative toggle at the neckline. This pairing is comfortable for long gatherings and looks elegant with minimal accessories, making it easy to transition from day to evening activities.
How to Style This Look
- Tuck the front of the top slightly into trousers for a fitted appearance
- Wear low-heeled slingbacks to keep the line clean
- Add a thin bracelet on the wrist for understated shine
Red Knit Vest over Button-Down
Layer a red knit vest over a crisp button-down shirt for a playful, cozy look. Use a fine merino or cotton blend for the vest to avoid bulk; add embroidered motifs along the hem for a DIY flourish. Pair with tailored trousers or a straight skirt—this layering suits mixing traditional color with contemporary prep influence. The button-down sleeve cuffs can be rolled to show embroidered details or bracelets, and the vest can be removed when indoors for flexibility during multi-location celebrations.
How to Style This Look
- Choose a shirt in a soft neutral like cream or pale blue
- Wear loafers or brogues for a smart-casual finish
- Add a thin chain necklace to lift the neckline