180 Chinese New Year Red Envelope Design Ideas

Looking for creative inspiration for your next red packet (ang bao / hong bao) design?
This curated showcase highlights 180 red envelope ideas, organised by the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. Each zodiac year carries its own symbolic meaning represented through colour, illustration, and cultural motifs. From elegant horse silhouettes to playful pig caricatures, these envelopes reveal how brands use design to celebrate tradition in fresh, contemporary ways.

Year of the Rat

The Rat, first in the Chinese zodiac cycle, symbolises cleverness, adaptability, and resourcefulness. In recent years, brands have celebrated the Rat with designs ranging from adorable cartoon mice to sophisticated gold-embossed silhouettes. Some even featured pop culture icons like Disney’s Mickey Mouse, blending charm with collectability.
Featuring red packet from Gucci, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, TWG Tea, RISIS, ZARA, Fendi, and more.

Year of the Ox

The Ox represents strength, honesty, and perseverance. Red packet designs for the Ox year often feature bold geometric horn motifs, embossed textures, and auspicious Chinese characters for a refined yet festive look. Many brands paired vibrant reds with metallic foils to convey prosperity and resilience.
Featuring red packet from Dior, Hermès, Valentino, BAPE, Rimowa, Audemars Piguet, Maybank, and more.

Year of the Tiger

Known for bravery, charm, and leadership, the Tiger inspires red packets that command attention. Brands often use dramatic contrasts, striking stripes, and roaring tiger illustrations—ranging from regal interpretations to playful cartoon styles. This versatility makes the Tiger a favourite for both luxury and casual gifting.
Featuring red packet from Ferrari, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Off-White, and more.

Year of the Rabbit

The Rabbit symbolises grace, sensitivity, and peace. Red packets for Rabbit years are often soft and elegant, with floral patterns, minimal bunny silhouettes, and pastel or gold-accented colour palettes. Some brands opt for adorable cartoon rabbits, while others take an abstract, high-fashion approach.
Featuring red packet from Loewe, Dior, Gucci, Miu Miu, Tiffany & Co., Fendi, Chopard, and more.

Year of the Dragon

The Dragon embodies power, nobility, and ambition. Red packet designs often feature majestic illustrations, gold foiling, and traditional cloud or flame patterns. Some brands collaborate with artists to reimagine the Dragon in contemporary art styles while keeping its legendary symbolism intact.
Featuring red packet from Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Baccarat, Bulgari, Rimowa, Tiffany & Co., and more.

Year of the Snake

Associated with wisdom, elegance, and intuition, the Snake inspires designs with flowing curves, abstract forms, and luxurious textures like embossing or foil stamping. Modern interpretations often blend minimalism with rich metallic detailing, making these red packets a sophisticated standout.
Featuring red packet from Loewe, Cartier, Hublot, Montblanc, Bvlgari, Isabel Marant, and more.

Year of the Horse

The Horse represents speed, freedom, and vitality. Designs for the Horse year range from galloping silhouettes and calligraphic strokes to equestrian-inspired patterns. Some brands lean on symbolism, while others explore artistic or minimalist depictions to convey movement and energy.
Featuring red packet from Gucci, Longchamp, Diane von Furstenberg, Ralph Lauren, Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse, and more.

Year of the Goat

Gentle, calm, and creative, the Goat inspires serene and graceful red packet designs. Common motifs include goat families, mountain landscapes, and floral backdrops in pastel tones. Clean line art and textured finishes are often used to highlight the Goat’s peaceful nature.
Featuring red packet from Louis Vuitton, M&M’s, Tommee Tippee, Huawei, Legoland, Sasa, and more.

Year of the Monkey

Monkeys symbolise intelligence, playfulness, and curiosity. Red packets for Monkey years often show lively poses—swinging, drumming, or enjoying peaches. Bold lines, expressive features, and metallic embellishments make these designs energetic and fun.
Featuring red packet from Coach, IWC, Carlton Hotel, LEGO, Honestbee, Emporio Armani, and more.

Year of the Rooster

The Rooster signifies punctuality, confidence, and honesty. Red packet designs often showcase proud roosters with detailed plumage, sunrise scenes, and rich colours. Luxury interpretations use intricate line work and gold foiling to bring this zodiac to life.
Featuring red packet from Blancpain, Harry Winston, Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, Rolex, Skagen, and more.

Year of the Dog

The Dog represents loyalty, friendship, and protection. Ang bao designs for Dog years range from charming pet portraits to playful paw print patterns. Popular breeds like Shiba Inu and French Bulldog are frequently featured alongside auspicious gold accents.
Featuring red packet from Gucci, Chopard, Loewe, Coach, Tory Burch, Montblanc, Dolce & Gabbana, and more.

Year of the Pig

A symbol of abundance, joy, and prosperity, the Pig inspires both whimsical and refined red packet designs. From cute, round pig illustrations to minimalist gold silhouettes, brands embrace this zodiac’s festive and cheerful energy.
Featuring red packet from Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Versace, Celine, Loewe, Givenchy, and more.

How HOVARLAY Reinvented the Red Packet for HERA

In 2025, HOVARLAY collaborated with HERA to reimagine the red packet experience for the Year of the Dragon. Each red packet featured a QR code that, when scanned, launched an augmented reality (AR) journey showcasing the story of all 12 Chinese zodiac signs.

Viewers could explore each zodiac’s personality, symbolism, and compatibility, all narrated through a digital guide. Additionally, the experience allowed users to discover their zodiac forecast for the year a feature people love exploring for themselves and their loved ones during the festive season. This engaging layer turned the red packet into both a storytelling and brand-building tool.

It was extremely easy to implement. All it required was a simple QR code printed on the packet no app downloads, no technical hassle.

Interested in Creating Your Own Immersive Red Packet Experience?

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