fashion

If you buy one outfit this month, make it this.

A quick peek into my wardrobe will tell you one thing: I'm obsessed with monochrome.

But amid the sea of black dresses, white tops and neutral beige staples, there's one piece that stands out — a vibrant red dress.

As someone with Chinese and Korean heritage, that red dress is more than just a pop of colour; it's a nod to tradition and an essential part of celebrating the Lunar New Year.

Watch: Jessica Vander Leahy tries the Style Maths method. Post continues below. 


Video via Mamamia.

In Chinese culture, red symbolises vitality, luck, prosperity and new beginnings. It's the reason behind the iconic lucky red envelopes and why wearing red during the Lunar New Year is believed to bring good fortune for the year ahead.

But even if you're not celebrating the Chinese holiday, a red dress deserves a place in your wardrobe. It's bold, perfect for making a statement and versatile enough to be worn for a variety of occasions throughout the calendar year (hello, Valentine's Day, Christmas, end-of-year festivities, weddings and birthdays).

So, to help you out, I've rounded up the best red dresses to shop right now. Whether you're looking for flowy silhouettes for elegant events, trendy minis for nights out or casual midis for everyday wear, there's a red dress out there to help you usher in the new year with style and fortune.

ADVERTISEMENT

The best red outfits to buy for the Lunar New Year in 2025.

& Other Stories Asymmetric Cowl-Neck Midi Dress, $169.

Image: The Iconic.

Showpo Brette Midi Dress, $89.95.

Image: Showpo.

ADVERTISEMENT

Cotton On Haven V-Neck Maxi Dress, $69.99.

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

Review Montreal Sleeved Dress in Red, $249.95.

Image: Myer.

Meshki Melanie Mesh Mini Dress With Flowers, $229.

Image: Meshki.

ADVERTISEMENT

AERE Linen Contrast Tie Detail Mini Dress, $120.

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

Showpo Yelena Mini Dress, $79.95.

Image: Showpo.

ADVERTISEMENT

Atmos&Here Solina Ruffle Shoulder Midi Dress, $99.99.

Image: The Iconic.

Atmos&Here Curvy Lou Linen Blend Wrap Maxi Dress, $80 (usually $119).

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

AERE Linen Draped Off Shoulder Maxi Dress, $170.

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

Shona Joy Savanna Halter Open Back Maxi Dress, $395.

Image: The Iconic.

Winona Suiting Mini Dress With Cut Out, $199.

Image: Meshki.

ADVERTISEMENT

Lover Tacita Linen Midi Dress, $240.

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

Camilla and Marc Vista Mini Dress, $500.

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

Showpo Katia Mini Dress, $79.95.

Image: Showpo.

M.N.G Claudia Dress, $149 (usually $249.95).

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

Showpo Genie Maxi Dress, $109.95.

Image: Showpo.

ADVERTISEMENT

City Chic Mila Plain Tier Midi Dress, $83.97 (usually $119.95).

Image: City Chic.


Feature image: Instagram @jessicavanderleahy/@vnessali.



Do you own a car? We’d love to hear about it! Complete our survey to go in the running to win a $50 gift voucher.
00:00 / ???