Chinese New Year Inspiration

This is the Year of the Monkey and those born this year (as well as 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992 and 2004) are said to be intelligent, witty, mischievous, curious and a little bit naughty! I love seeing all the Chinese New Year decorations around Central London at this time of year, especially the beautiful lanterns and vibrant colours. Lanterns have a long history in Chinese tradition and while originally used for lighting, they are now most commonly seen during the Lantern Festival which signifies the end of the Spring Festival (the Chinese New Year Period). This year’s Lantern Festival falls on February 22nd.

Lanterns are an inexpensive and celebratory way to add a pop of colour to your home.  Because I’m currently in the throes of wedding planning, I recently became the proud owner of 32 bright pink and purple paper lanterns. I’m pretty sure a couple or more will be finding their way back to my house afterwards…

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Check out Emily Burningham’s beautiful range of Lantern-patterned fabrics, available to buy from The Loom and Last:

Fabrics, Fun Stuff, Interiors and Ideas.