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12 Chinese New Year Nail Art Ideas, According To Your Zodiac

12 Chinese New Year Nail Art Ideas, According To Your Zodiac

The easiest, non-committal way to wear your lucky colours in the year of the pig

CNY nails

According to Chinese culture, it is widely believed that auspicious colours and numbers can help bring good fortune, health and prosperity to those who heed it. The Chinese have subscribed to the notion that wearing these colours, especially during the Lunar New Year, will positively influence one’s fate for the year ahead, since the Shang dynasty. Most people do this by adapting their wardrobe, painting the walls of their homes and even their hair colours. However, if you find it a hassle to give your home and wardrobe a complete overhaul, here are 12 fabulous nail designs based on zodiac signs and their respective lucky colours for an easy way to turn around your fortune.

Born In: 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007
Lucky Colours: Vermilion Red, Venetian Yellow

It’s the year of the pig so it’s seems only fitting for those born in that year to sport their zodiac signs on their nails. Choose your favorite piggy caricature to have painted on your nails for that extra splash of personality and charm.

Born In: 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008
Lucky Colours: Green, Fuschia Pink and Naples Yellow

Featuring Chinese characters, motifs and floral designs, this nail design is the perfect way to incorporate your lucky colours. Have fun with different colour combinations to achieve a truly bespoke set of manicured nails.

Born In: 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009
Lucky Colours: Red, Pink, Green

In the spirit of the year of the pig, show some love by donning cute piggies on your nails. Like this adorable option complete with watermelons.

Born In: 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
Lucky Colours: Malachite Green, Slate Gray

Jade has always held great importance in Chinese culture, therefore, these jade-inspired manicure are a double blessing; incorporating your auspicious colour and representation of the Stone of Heaven’.

Related article: The Luckiest Makeup Colours To Wear In 2019, According To Your Zodiac

Born In: 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011
Lucky Colours: Indigo, Pink, Indian Yellow


Associated feminine sexuality, beauty and dominance, cherry blossoms inspired nails are a great way to integrate your auspicious colour whilst looking fabulous!

Born In:  1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
Lucky Colours: Cardinal Red, Smoke Gray

It is widely believed that a child born in the year of the Dragon is more successful than his or her peers, which explains why there’s a spike in births to Chinese parents. Whether or not you buy into that, nothing can be fiercer than wearing a dragon motif on your nails. Take your cue from these immaculate oriental dragon-inspired nails—it’s like having your very own troupe of dragon dancers on your finger tips.

Born in: 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001
Lucky Colours: Leek Green, Fresh Butter Yellow, Brown

Brown can be a quite boring for a nail colour but you can spice things up with a tortoise shell design that’s totally Instagram-worthy.

Born In: 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002
Lucky Colours: Red, White

Red and white nails can sometimes look a tad patriotic on their own. But when you add details like peach blossoms and pussy willows, it’ll look much more festive and CNY- appropriate.

Related article: 10 Beauty Products In 2019's Pantone Colour Of The Year

Born In: 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003
Lucky Colours: Smoke Gray, Blue

Up the ante this Lunar New Year with porcelain inspired nails; it perfectly combines Chinese culture with contemporary nuances for a fabulous manicure!

Born In: 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004
Lucky Colours: Mayan Blue, Orchid Pink, Indian Yellow

Incorporate elements like the crane and plum blossoms for beautiful nail art that’s sure to be a conversation starter among your family and friends.

Born In: 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005
Lucky Colours: 
Parma Pink, Cerulean Blue, Spring Green

Don’t these koi fishes look uber cute? They’re also widely regarded as symbols of strength and good luck according to Chinese culture. What’s not to love?

Born In: 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006
Lucky Colours: Blue, Indian Yellow, Beige

Who doesn’t love puppies? Make your friends and family squeal in envy once they see your super cute nail art!

Related article: 5 Easy Beauty Looks To Try And Experiment With In 2019

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