When I sat down to lunch with a fellow Year-of-the-Rabbit parent recently, he proudly flashed me his new red bracelet that was hand-braided by Tibetan monks. Apparently, when it’s your zodiac year (本命年 benmingnian) it’s tradition to get something red to wear for the entire year in order to ward off bad luck, since all celestial eyes are on you – this being your year. This corroborates the research I’ve skimmed on the subject and so, in the spirit of celebrating the Year of the Rabbit, we’ve rounded up some cool bunny-themed trinkets and stuff you can get right here in Beijing.
Jasmine’s Jewelry
Since bracelets are generally easier to leave on without much hassle, local jewelry designer Jasmine has designed a wide range of them for this CNY, from raw materials ranging from silver to 18k gold to jade and even cinnabar. I chose a design that spoke to me, then asked her to customize it with a few touches, and voilà! I received it the next day! Quality is great and prices are very reasonable as well. Scan the QR code below to contact her.
Mosaic
One thing I love about Chinese characters is how they are so often pictographic of the word they represent, so the character 兔 really looks like a rabbit! Another jewelry designer, Arzu, has taken that concept and made these adorable silver earrings in honor of this zodiac animal. She’s also offering other Chinese character earrings that may help invoke the promise of “longevity” and “prosperity” for the new year.
Wobaby Basics
This Shanghai-based expat-repreneur brand offers cool zodiac-themed clothing in GOTS certified organic cotton for babies and children. The bonus? There’s a 50% discount on clothing and 20% off muslin swaddles from now until Feb 2, plus free delivery across China!
Calzedonia
Slip into these oh-so-adorable bunny tights from Italian brand Calzedonia and throw on a wool dress or skirt to complete the look! Or if you’ve got a fancy date night coming up, get the diamond-lined stockings that end with a diamond playboy-esque bunny at the back of the ankles for a sexier touch. While you’re there, grab a few thermal tights at discounted prices thanks to CNY!
Bunny Luck Quilling Workshop
Want to make your own luck? Check out Annette Golden’s Bunny Luck Quilling workshop and create a beautiful and perhaps lucky piece of art in the form of the zodiac bunny. Children 8 and above are welcome to join the workshop and master the quilling technique in three hours! Scan the QR code in the poster below to register.
KEEP READING: Beware the Bunny Buying Craze for CNY, Plus Rabbits for Adoption!
Images: Pexels, courtesy of vendors
