WHAT’S HOT?
The Year of the Horse!
2/20/26
Dear Hot Friends,
The Year of the Horse began this week — and yes, I’m highlighting it because (you guessed it) I’m a Horse myself! Do you know your Lunar New Year animal? It’s based on the year you were born, and the zodiac cycle repeats every twelve years.
Chinese New Year has always held a special place in my heart. As many of you know, I lived in Singapore for six wonderful years in the 1990s, where the celebration was nothing short of magical. Two full weeks of extraordinary food, dazzling decorations, and joyous festivities — it was impossible not to be swept up in it. Though I left Singapore decades ago, I still look forward to honoring the holiday every year.
In the spirit of the new lunar year, I couldn’t resist giving it a stylish twist. Each zodiac sign is associated with colors and elements believed to attract harmony, prosperity, and positive energy. And since we speak the universal language of style here at HOT, I’ve translated that cosmic guidance into something far more fun: your fashion forecast for the year ahead. And of course, I couldn't resist including a perfect HOT product for each zodiac sign!
So find your sign below, embrace your power colors, and dress for the energy you want to attract in 2026!
Rat, Birth years: 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996
This is your year to take stylish risks—swap safe basics for sharp tailoring and unexpected details. Best colors: emerald, cobalt, and crisp white. Power pieces: structured blazers and sleek ankle boots.
These Murano Glass Millefiori Earrings are unique and colorful, boasting beautiful artistic designs that merge centuries-old Murano Glass artistic tradition with contemporary trends. Millefiori ("a thousand flowers") is an ancient glassmaking technique where tiny mosaic pieces are cut from special glass canes, then arranged by hand, and fused together. These beauties in deep blue are 3” long with sterling silver wires. Exquisite!
Ox, Birth years: 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997
Steady Ox, lean into elevated classics with luxurious textures. Best colors: camel, deep burgundy, and forest green. Think refined knits, polished leather belts, and timeless coats with presence.
This 1” black leather belt from Connie Bates is made very special by an ornate silver buckle embellished with rich stones. It’s the perfect belt for jeans! 42” long and can fit a wide range of sizes. A prolific 1980s designer known for her belts as well as her jewelry, Connie Bate’s designs are sculptural and imbued with urban glamour. Inspired by the vibrant energy of New York City, the pieces emphasized individuality and strength, making them wearable statements for powerful self-expression.
Tiger, Birth years: 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998
Horse energy fuels your natural boldness—go dramatic. Best colors: fiery red, leopard tones, and electric blue. Statement outerwear and oversized sunglasses are your signature.
This charming claw clip by Solar Eclipse is designed in New York City and features a double-sided design for a perfect look from all angles. Handmade with biodegradable acetate made from recycled wood pulp and hand-painted by artists, this accessory effortlessly holds hair for a secure, all-day style. This unique hair clip makes a great gift!
Rabbit, Birth years: 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999
Balance your softness with confidence this year. Best colors: blush, dove gray, and soft lavender. Romantic blouses, fluid trousers, and delicate gold jewelry keep you glowing.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of fish for the zodiac sign Pisces (those born from Feb. 19 to Mar. 20). The 14K gold-plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Dragon, Birth years: 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000
You’re unstoppable—dress like it. Best colors: gold, crimson, and jewel-toned purple. Luxe fabrics, sculptural earrings, and bold rings amplify your magnetic presence.
This 18KT gold-plated multi-band Chakra ring brings together powerful gemstones; garnet, amethyst, iolite, blue topaz, green onyx, citrine, and carnelian. They provide balance, energy, love, friendship, spirituality, peace, and prosperity. Made in India. Size 7
Snake, Birth years: 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001
Subtle but striking is your sweet spot. Best colors: midnight blue, charcoal, and metallic bronze. Slip dresses layered under sharp coats and sleek boots keep things powerful.
These gorgeous hoops will garner lots of looks and compliments! Crafted in India and made of 18K gold plate on durable brass, they’re lightweight and comfortable to wear. The snake’s eyes are black zircon, and the hoop’s dimensions are 2” in diameter.
Horse, Birth years: 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002
Your year demands movement and flair. Best colors: turquoise, scarlet, and sunlit orange. Fringe, fluid silhouettes, and bold belts bring dynamic energy to every look.
This belt is the only hit of boho style needed this summer! By Donna Karan’s great DKNY label of the 90s, it’s made of a high quality black leather featuring a 13” fringed skirt in the front. Can be worn at the waist or hip. In perfect condition and size large. 36”
Goat, Birth years: 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003
Lean into artistic expression. Best colors: cream, sage, and dusty rose. Textured layers, vintage brooches, and beautifully draped knits feel just right.
These amazing apple pins, made of faux ivory and embellished with rhinestones, are from the 1960s and were designed by prolific fashion designer and jeweler Nettie Rosenstein. Highly collectible and ultra charming, these fabulous apples will brighten any lapel! Sold as a pair, the large one is 1 1/2” wide and 2” long. The smaller one is 1 1’4” wide and 2” long in great condition. $250 for the pair, but I’m open to selling them separately. Email me if interested.
Monkey, Birth years: 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004
Playfulness pays off—mix patterns and add whimsy. Best colors: mustard, teal, and bright pink. Unexpected accessories (hello, bag charms!) keep things lively.
This whimsical bag charm can also be used as a key chain. Hand made in South Africa, its bright pink feathers paired with a black and white woven handle will make you smile! 8” long.
Rooster, Birth years: 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005
Polish is your power. Best colors: navy, crisp black-and-white, and ruby. Sharp tailoring, bold collars, and structured handbags command attention.
This very pretty and eye-catching necklace is all that’s needed to elevate any neckline to party status! Made of 4 stands of sparkling flat bronze beads, it’s in the shape of a large rounded collar. Unique and sure to get noticed!
Dog, Birth years: 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006
Comfort meets quiet chic this year. Best colors: denim blue, olive, and warm caramel. Relaxed suiting and perfectly worn-in leather make you effortlessly stylish.
This vintage belt from Club Monaco was purchased in the early 2000s right after Ralph Lauren bought the brand. And doesn’t it look just like a Ralph piece? In brown leather, it double wraps around the waist for an obi like effect. Finished with a silver buckle and small grommets, it’s a nice addition to your belt wardrobe. Size medium. In great condition.
Pig, Birth years: 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007
Indulge in glamour with a playful twist—best colors: champagne, coral, and rich chocolate. Statement earrings and luxe wraps add just the right drama.
These super lightweight, vintage-inspired Roman coin earrings are 22K antique gold plated over brass and handcrafted in New York.
In honor of the Chinese New Year, I've added some new pieces to the HOT vintage fashion tab by the prolific Chinese designer Vivienne Tam. Her pieces have become highly collectible, especially the Mao dress. This one is missing its tag, but I purchased it in Singapore in 1995, have worn it very little, and it's in excellent condition. It was featured in the Met Costume Institute exhibit, China: Through the Looking Glass, in 2015.
Now tell me — what’s your sign? Reply and let me know if your fashion forecast feels spot on. And if your power colors are calling, don’t wait… There's definitely something on HOT that’s meant for you!
Terry xoxo