As the countdown to midnight approaches and you’re busy debating between sequins or velvet for your party look, there is one wardrobe choice you might be overlooking. It is hidden, private, and according to centuries of tradition, perhaps the most important thing you’ll put on all night. If you want the next twelve months to be filled with more than just broken resolutions and cold coffee, it might be time to invest in some red underwear.
This isn’t just about looking good for a potential New Year’s kiss. The ritual is deeply rooted in the idea that what you wear closest to your skin as the clock strikes twelve dictates your vibration for the entire year ahead. It’s a bit superstitious, sure, but after the rollercoaster of these last few years, can we really afford to take any chances?
The Tradition: Passion, Protection, and Prosperity
You might wonder: why red? Why not a calm blue or a sophisticated black? To understand the obsession, you have to look toward Italy, where “Capodanno” traditions are taken very seriously. In Italian culture, red is the color of “fortuna.” Wearing red undies is thought to invite a year of fertility, passion, and vitality. It is a bold way of telling the universe that you are ready for some heat in your life.
But the history goes even deeper than just romance. Back in medieval times, red was often associated with blood and fire. While that sounds intense, it served a protective purpose. People wore red to ward off “malocchio”—the evil eye—and to keep away negative spirits or witches that were supposedly more active during the winter solstice. It was essentially a spiritual shield. So, when you slip into that crimson lace or those red boxers, you’re participating in a centuries-old defensive maneuver against bad vibes.
There is a catch, though. You can’t just dig out that old pair of red briefs from three years ago and expect them to work. The tradition is very specific: the underwear must be brand-new. Wearing something fresh symbolizes a clean slate. Even better? Many believe the luck only “activates” if the garment was given to you as a gift. It is the perfect excuse to drop a massive hint to your bestie or partner. Tell them it’s for your spiritual well-being; they can’t really argue with that.
Manifestation by Color: The Lingerie Rainbow
While red is the undisputed heavyweight champion of New Year’s Eve, maybe your goals for the coming year are a bit more specific. Not everyone is looking for a whirlwind romance or high-octane energy. If your priorities lie elsewhere, you might want to consider the wider “manifestation rainbow” seen in places like Mexico and Brazil.
- Red: Love, Passion, and High Energy. The gold standard for a reason.
- Yellow: Success, Money, and Wealth. This is massive in Mexico and Brazil. If you’re chasing a promotion or trying to manifest a fatter bank account, yellow represents the sun and gold.
- Green: Health and Growth. Are you coming off a year of burnout? Green is for restoration and stability.
- White: Peace and Harmony. If your past year was a chaotic mess of drama, white is like a deep, cleansing exhale for your wardrobe.
It’s almost like setting an intention without having to say a word. You are literally dressing for the life you want. Is it a bit silly? Maybe. But does it make getting dressed more fun? Absolutely.
In fact, this desire for a fresh start is even changing where we spend the holidays. While Mexico has long been the capital of New Year’s manifestation, influencers are swapping Mexico for the Canary Islands this winter in search of a different kind of European magic.
Style Guide: Our Top Picks
The best part about this tradition is that it fits any vibe you’ve planned for the night. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for luck.
For those of you embracing “Main Character” energy, the “Sultry Siren” look is the way to go. Think intricate red lace bodysuits or sheer balconette bras. Even if no one sees it but you, there is a certain power in knowing you’re wearing something that feels expensive and daring.
If your New Year’s plans involve a face mask, a heavy blanket, and a Netflix queue, don’t feel left out. The “Cozy Queen” can opt for high-quality red cotton briefs or a soft rib-knit set. Brands like Skims or Aerie always have reliable, vibrant options that won’t give you a struggle while you’re trying to enjoy your snacks.
And let’s not forget “Gender Neutral” red. Luck doesn’t care about the cut of your cloth. Bold red boxers or classic trunks are the move for anyone who wants to join the luck train without the lace. It’s about the pigment, not the pattern. Everyone deserves a slice of that prosperity pie.
The “Toss It” Ritual
Before you get too attached to your new favorite pair, there is one final, slightly scandalous step to the tradition that we just have to mention. In certain parts of Italy, if you really want to commit to the bit, you’re supposed to throw the red underwear away on January 1st.
It sounds wasteful, I know. But the logic is purely symbolic. By tossing the garment you wore during the transition, you are physically discarding the old year and any lingering baggage it carried. It is the ultimate “out with the old” move. Whether you actually throw them in the bin or just keep them as a lucky memento is up to you, but there is something cathartic about the idea of a one-night-only lucky charm.
So, as you prep for the festivities, remember that the most important part of your outfit might be the one nobody sees. Are you going for the classic red, or are you feeling more of a “yellow for wealth” vibe this time around?
We want to hear your New Year’s superstitions! Do you swear by the red undies, or do you have another secret ritual for good luck? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more gossip and style guides!
Sources:
- www.italy-magazine.com/featured-story/italian-new-year-traditions-red-underwear-and-lentils
- www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/5231908/new-years-eve-tradition-red-underwear/
- www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/red-underwear-tradition-spells-new-year-luck-in-italy-idUSL28284560/
- www.vogue.com/article/new-years-eve-underwear-color-meaning
