A woman in a pastel mandarin-collar halter top and pink mini wrap skirt, carrying a pearl-handled bag, in front of a glass building

What to wear for Chap Goh Mei: pretty, festive outfits for the 15th night

For Chap Goh Mei, the 15th and last night of Chinese New Year, wear something festive but easy to move in. Soft pink, red and gold suit the night's romantic mood, light fabrics keep you comfortable on a warm evening by the sea, and flat shoes make the promenade and night market easier. In 2027 it falls on Saturday 20 February, so you can dress up without thinking about work the next day.

What is Chap Goh Mei?

Chap Goh Mei (十五暝, "the 15th night") closes the Chinese New Year season. It's often called Chinese Valentine's Day: in Penang, single women gather at the Esplanade in George Town to toss mandarin oranges into the sea and wish for a good partner, with performances and fireworks through the evening (The Star). Families also gather for one last reunion dinner.

What to wear, by plan

Plan Wear Shoes
Orange throwing by the sea A light, short set in pink Flat sandals or Mary Janes
Night market and lanterns A mandarin-collar top with wide trousers Comfortable flats
Family reunion dinner A qipao set or a festive two-piece Low heels
Date night A red set with modern Chinese details Heels or pointed flats

By the sea

The Mirabelle Sweet Cheongsam Set (RM109) pairs a mandarin-collar halter top with frog buttons and a pink mini wrap skirt. It's light for a humid evening and looks lovely in photos with lanterns behind you.

A pastel mandarin-collar top with a soft blue long coat on a lantern-lit evening street, sky lanterns overhead

At the night market

The Qing Yu Chinese Modern Top (RM69) has a mandarin collar, pearl buttons and a peplum hem in soft pastel. Wear it with cream wide-leg trousers so you can walk and sit on the steps comfortably.

For dinner or a date

The Rouxi Pink Vest Set Wear (RM129) is a pink jacquard brocade vest with gold thread and frog buttons, with matching high-waist shorts. For a longer, more formal look, choose the Ru Xuan Qipao Set (RM139); for something red and modern, the Glam Red Ribbon Set Wear (RM119).

A pink jacquard vest and matching high-waist shorts, worn with a plum-blossom hand fan

Tips for the night

  • Choose flat shoes for the promenade, crowds and stairs.
  • Bring a thin layer for air-conditioned restaurants, like the Sunscreen Thin Knitted Cardigan (RM29.90).
  • Carry a small crossbody bag so your hands are free for oranges and photos.
  • Write your wish before you go. Many people write their name or contact on the orange.

Hair, make-up and accessories

Keep the details simple so the outfit stands out. A low bun or half-up hair with a small pearl or gold clip suits a mandarin collar and stays neat in the sea breeze. Choose one statement piece: red drop earrings, a jade bracelet or a beaded bag, not all three. Long-wear lipstick in a soft red or rose lasts through dinner and photos. If you are going straight from a family dinner to the promenade, pack a pair of flats in your tote bag and change on the way.

Planning the whole season? See modern cheongsam sets for CNY 2027 and what new Chinese-style fashion is.

FAQ

When is Chap Goh Mei in 2027?

Saturday 20 February 2027, the 15th day of the first lunar month. Chinese New Year falls on 6 February.

What colour should I wear?

Pink and red are the most popular for the romance and luck of the night; cream and gold work well as softer choices.

Can I wear black?

It's still the New Year season, so most people avoid head-to-toe black. Black trousers or a skirt with a festive top is fine.

Back to blog