First published in Elysiants on 2 January 2012.
Ada Pat from as Ada invited my mom and I to her studio, and walked us through her latest 2011 F/W collection, which is filled with prints in both subdue and sharp tones. Usually when you think of a studio your imagination would tend to go with the minimalist décor and perhaps a NYC loft approach, but Ada wanted hers to match the dramatic floral patterns that is key to her designs, so she styled her studio much like what you would expect to find in an English mansion, where a bunch of upper class ladies’ are having a tea party.
Ada was kind enough to let me tried on her vast collection of cocktail dresses, dresses for office work, maxi dresses, and qi-paos. I guess you can start seeing a trend here. She only makes dresses. Why? Because she doesn’t think there are enough choices in Hong Kong for mid-price range dresses, which would make adaptable pieces in every woman’s wardrobe. There is no other way to describe her designs other than feminine. I especially love her maxi-dresses, which are comfortable and flowy, creating an alluring silhouette. Paired with Heinna Couture's hair piece, it would be perfect for attending weddings in Bali, Guam, or Sanya with! As an up and coming designer, she is extremely talented in maneuvering with fabrics, being equipped with her extensive background in textiles from her time in Australia. Let Ada tell us more about her latest inspirations, and see what she can do for you to make you shine through your next event!
Where do you get your inspirations for as Ada’s designs?
I am inspired by gardens, with its well-manicured horticulture and flowing springs, which is why I use lots of floral prints made of smooth silk from Europe. Flower-printed dresses are just never out of fashion, and it gives every girl the chance to be more feminine and refined. This is why digging around for fashion related accessories and fabrics is like being in a paradise for me, because you just never know when you will come across any surprising treasures for your next design!
I love creating vivid cocktail dresses, with accentuating pleats and ruffles, forming a rather dreamy, water colour-like air that can be dressed down at work easily with a cashmere cardigan, as well as effortlessly glammed up for a night out with a pair of killer pumps. My maxi dresses are light and silky, showing off your beautiful neckline while allowing you to float around unrestrictedly, generating a subtly sexy appeal. The qi-paos that I construct are much different from your off-the-shelf alternatives. Usually qi-paos are presented in more of a traditional light, but my collection utilises modern prints, which gives an edgy twist to a well-established look.
Tell me more about your tailor made service!
Drop by my garden party-themed studio in the heart of Central, and we can discuss upon what you have in mind over a decent cuppa! If you have a special occasion coming up, we would be more than happy to add some sparkles to your look, and create a timeless piece together in collaboration. We would definitely take into account of what you prefer in colour combinations, fabrics, and style, but most importantly, we would give you technical advice on the fitting that best suits your body's proportion, creating your very own full body measurement profile. We can schedule in multiple fitting sessions to make sure that your garment fits you 100%. If it is more convenient for you, we can also come to you for the tailoring service. It all depends on what best suits you really. We are planning to develop a premium line for bridal and evening wear, so watch out on our Facebook fan page for the latest collection updates, trend tips, and exclusive discounts!
[Read: Ada does have an amazingly romantic tea set! Both my mom and I think that the tea she serves is delicious, so you should really try it for yourself. She also has some decent accessories to go with whatever dress you are looking for, so don’t miss out on that when you are at her studio!]
as Ada
Address: 4/F, Wing Fat Building, 3-5 Jervois Street, Central
Telephone: 2873 2874
Email: adapat@as-ada.com
Website: www.as-ada.com


