In Italy, New Year’s Eve is more than just a time for fireworks, festive dinners, and celebrations. It's also steeped in traditions that are believed to bring good luck for the year ahead. Among these customs, one stands out for its playful, yet deeply symbolic meaning: wearing red underwear on New Year’s Eve. For Italians, donning red undergarments on the final night of the year is a way to attract luck, love, and prosperity in the upcoming year.

But how did this tradition come about, and what does it truly symbolize? In this blog, we’ll explore the origins of this unique Italian custom, its deeper meanings, and how it has become a lighthearted yet important part of New Year’s Eve celebrations in Italy.

The Origins of the Red Underwear Tradition

The practice of wearing red underwear on New Year’s Eve in Italy dates back centuries and is rooted in both ancient Roman and medieval Italian traditions. The color red has long been associated with life, vitality, and protection, making it a popular symbol in various rituals designed to ward off negative energies and bring about positive outcomes.

Ancient Roman Roots

The custom of wearing red for protection and good fortune can be traced back to Ancient Rome. During the Roman Empire, red was considered a powerful color that symbolized life force, strength, and fertility. It was often worn in ceremonies and celebrations to invoke these qualities. On special occasions like the start of a new year, red clothing or accessories were thought to drive away bad luck and evil spirits, ensuring prosperity and protection.

The Medieval Influence

In medieval Italy, the symbolism of red persisted, particularly in relation to love and passion. Red was thought to stimulate the heart, foster romance, and symbolize fertility. As the custom evolved, the act of wearing red clothing—or specifically red undergarments—became a way to invite love, good health, and prosperity in the new year.

The Symbolism Behind Red

In Italian culture, red is a color rich with symbolism, making it the perfect choice for welcoming a new year. From its association with passion and love to its ties with protection and vitality, wearing red undergarments on New Year’s Eve represents the hope for a year filled with joy, success, and romance.

Red as a Symbol of Love and Passion

Perhaps the most well-known symbolism associated with red is its connection to love and passion. For Italians, wearing red underwear on New Year’s Eve is a playful yet meaningful gesture meant to attract romantic luck in the coming year. The tradition holds that wearing red will help foster new relationships, deepen existing ones, or simply spark more passion and romance in your life.

Red as a Symbol of Good Fortune and Protection

Beyond love and romance, red is also seen as a protective color in Italian tradition. In many cultures, red is thought to ward off bad luck, evil spirits, and negative energy. By wearing red, particularly in the form of intimate apparel, Italians believe they are safeguarding themselves against misfortune and inviting good fortune for the year ahead.

How Italians Celebrate the Tradition

While the symbolism of red underwear is rooted in ancient beliefs, the modern-day tradition has taken on a playful and lighthearted tone. For many Italians, wearing red undergarments is a fun and essential part of their New Year’s Eve celebrations. Stores throughout Italy stock up on red underwear in the weeks leading up to the holiday, and it’s common for friends and family members to gift red undergarments as a good luck gesture.

A Festive Gesture

In Italy, it’s not just about wearing any red underwear—it’s important that the red underwear is new. Tradition holds that for the good luck to work, the underwear must be unworn before New Year’s Eve, symbolizing a fresh start. Some people even go a step further and discard the red underwear after New Year’s Day to solidify the idea of leaving the past behind and fully embracing the future.

Embracing the Fun of Tradition

The red underwear tradition in Italy is a wonderful example of how cultural practices can evolve into something both meaningful and fun. While the roots of the custom are tied to serious ideas about protection and good fortune, today, it’s embraced with humor and joy. For Italians, it’s an easy and entertaining way to take part in a shared tradition while setting positive intentions for the coming year.

How to Participate in the Red Underwear Tradition

Choose New Red Underwear

The most important part of the tradition is to wear new red underwear, as the symbolism of new clothing represents a fresh start and the welcoming of new energy into your life. It doesn’t matter if it’s a pair of red socks or red lingerie—the key is that it’s unworn before the celebration.

Wear It on New Year’s Eve

To maximize the luck and blessings associated with the tradition, make sure you wear your red underwear during New Year’s Eve festivities, whether you’re at a big party or enjoying a quiet evening at home. As the clock strikes midnight, you’ll be ready to welcome love, passion, and good fortune into your life for the new year.

Embrace the Spirit of Fun

While the tradition has roots in ancient beliefs, it’s meant to be enjoyed with a sense of fun and lightheartedness. Whether you’re wearing red to attract romance, wealth, or simply to ward off bad luck, embrace the playful nature of the custom and enjoy the festive spirit that comes with it.

Conclusion: A Playful Tradition of Luck and Love

The tradition of wearing red underwear on New Year’s Eve in Italy is a wonderful mix of ancient symbolism and modern festivity. Rooted in beliefs about love, protection, and good fortune, it’s a custom that has stood the test of time while remaining a playful part of Italy’s holiday celebrations. Whether you’re hoping to attract love, enhance your luck, or simply embrace the joy of a new beginning, donning red underwear is a lighthearted way to start the new year with positivity and optimism.

So, this New Year’s Eve, why not give it a try? You may just find a little extra luck and love in the year ahead!