Refurbish the Chinese New Year Wardrobe - Oba Trunk Show

Published exclusively in this site on 14 January 2012.

Chinese New Year usually calls for new clothes, or so it gives the excuse for. Where could you stock up for your last minute festive wardrobe?  Oba, a Shanghai-based online shop that is due to kick start at the end of January 2012, will be hosting their pre-opening trunk show this weekend in Wanchai and Central, and you are invited to get your hands on their exclusive pieces at a 20% discount even before their official launch!

Oba, standing for overcoat in colloquial Korean slang, specializes in designing and manufacturing women's outerwear only, so you can be sure they are the experts in their field. Its founder, Joanna Lim, descended with Chinese and Korean roots, and has lived abroad most of her life, which has huge influences upon her designs.

Not only are their jackets exquisite, they are also produced in limited quantities! Each design comes in four to five colors, and 15 to 20 pieces will be manufactured per colour, so the chances of you looking the same as your frenemy in an important party will be...well you do the math. Drop by and find a new coat for your upcoming family gatherings at Oba this weekend!

Oba Trunk Show 2012
On Saturday, 14 January 2012: Room 2901, Convention Plaza Apartments, 1 Harbour Road, Wanchai.
On Sunday, 15 January 2012: Flat D, 27/F, Tower 1, Robinson Place, 70 Robinson Road, Mid Levels.
Time: 11:00am to 6:00pm
Telephone: 6079 7968
Email: info@oba.asia
Website: http://www.oba.asia

A Nishe Sale

Published exclusively in this site on 6 January 2012.

Nishe, a cute and quaint women's wear brand, was founded by a Hong Kong based Australian designer Polly Siu. They are hosting their end of year sale from Monday, 9 January 2012 to Tuesday, 17 January 2012, at their showroom in Lai Chi Kok. Everything is marked down to 70% off, so drag yourself over there before everything is out!

Educated at the world famous Central Saint Martins, Polly's style is very girly and colourful, creating pieces that would brighten up every girl's wardrobe. When you are at her studio, make sure you also check out her 2012 Spring/Summer collection, which is inspired by lollipops and fruits. Filled with bright pastel colours, this series is set to announce the arrival of spring.

Nishe - End of Year Sale
Address: Room 1903-1905 Clifford Centre, 782 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Lai Chi Kok.
Date: From Monday, 9 January 2012 to Tuesday, 17 January 2012
Time: From 12:00pm to 8:00pm
Telephone: 2387 4508
Email: polly.siu@nishe.com.hk
Website: http://www.nishe.com.hk/

A Look for All Occasions - Novelty Lane

First published in Elysiants on 11 January 2012.

Cindy from Noveltylane.com brought the girls and I over to their studio in North Point to try out their huge 2011 Fall/Winter collection. Freshly put together by local fashion designers, each piece has its very own style and characteristics. Their stuff is pretty diverse, so it is really an one stop online shop that covers your entire wardrobe, from your sweats for pick up a few groceries to your upscale party pieces. Their online shop's layout is quite similar to Net-a-Porter, so it is fairly easy to navigator, with the added bonus of lower shipping fees, since they are Hong Kong based.

We had lots of fun picking out our favourite pieces to try on, and Jasmine did a whole lot of shopping right on the spot, so aren't we lucky that Cindy has decided to offer a whopping 10% discount for all Gillian Chu - a Hong Kong Blog readers? It is all quite easy, just quote the discount code 10GILLIAN when checking out on their site from now until Tuesday, 28 February 2012, and the discount will come up as if by magic. Here are a few of our top picks for different occasions:

Office Wear

For an attractive look at work, Keely picked out this white/orange patch dress from Instinct Femme, paired with a black leather belt from Novio-Novia, a brand with a special Spanish name meaning boyfriend-girlfriend. The classy brown python shoulder bag from Za is perfect both for heading to work and off to LKF for happy hour. The black leather lace-up peep toe from Zhoezzy looks awfully cute on her, and certainly lives up to their brand's mission in providing trendy and sexy options to shoe lovers.

Jessie, on the other hand, decided on trying this black top with zipper details from Instinct Femme, with this brightly coloured pencil skirt from Girly Fashion, which is eye-catching and yet comfortable enough to take you through an entire day at work. The lovely black patent leather wedge heels from Za also compliment the look rather well.

Jasmine picked out this cute grey cropped knitted top from Girly Fashion to go with this black high waist skirt from Novio-Novia, which oozes a metro-sexual look with a feminine twist. Paired with the duffy necklace and the beige furry cuff from Hyperreall, the unique and trendy accessories certainly jazzed up her look rather well.

I chose this flattering orange/navy blue colour blocking dress and a black drawstring jacket from Instinct Femme, which caters for both the temperature inside and outside offices in Hong Kong. I also had on these grey suede peep toe with cut out details from Zhoezzy, who are experts in making heels, since they know that shoes are the souls of every girl's look. This pair is definitely Jessie's favourite, since she has been eyeing it the entire time we were at the studio.

Casual Look

Jasmine had on this vintage yellow checkered dress from Cuckoo's Nest, which is great for a casual walk around town. The pair of white framed sunglasses she had on from Elements Deluxe features a more contemporary structure with refined details, and yet doesn't compromise in its comfort.

Keely threw on a more neighbourhood look with a baggy tee from Paper Doll and a smooth combination of shorts with pants from Girly Fashion. The colourful fringe necklace she had on from Hyperreall definitely spiced up her look by using unusual materials to establish her individuality and style. The catchy angel tote bag, with a cherub sticking his head out, is from Crazy Macramé, and would make an awesome conversation piece during the relaxing tea time with the girls.

For a weekend look, Jessie favours the charcoal grey sleeveless dress from Girly Fashion, and this grey leather crossbody bag from Novio-Novia to shove all her bits and pieces in. The bag reflects its founder's love for men’s fashion, which led to adapting the designs for women's wear. The cool white platform with colourful wing-like decoration from Flux brings a touch of femininity to the look with creative details and fun elements.

I, on the other hand, tried out this black flared knitted dress from Instinct Femme for a cute number on the weekend. It is great for a relaxed yet flirty look, which is rather well-suited for a chill brunch date along Soho, and a stride along the art galleries in the neighbourhood afterwards.

Evening Ideas

For a black tie event, Jasmine decided to try out the androgynous look with a black/white colour blocking suit jacket and a pair of black patched leather pants, both from Instinct Femme, which is so in for this season.

Jessie chose a more girly look with a white/grey silk chiffon abstract print top from Novio-Novia and an orange signature slit skirt, adding a touch of high-end glamour with a black fur patchwork scarf, both from Instinct Femme.

Keely threw on a grey studded fur dress from Girly Fashion for a mildly punk look, which has such a smooth touch that none of us can keep our hands off it. She paired it with a grey python bag from Za, which she tried out the brown version of in her office look. It is such a versatile piece, since you can just tuck the strap inside and instantly turn it into a clutch like how Jessie held it, so I am sure it will become a well-loved staple in your wardrobe.

For an elegant evening look, I love this comfy orange loose cut dress and the complimenting silver clutch, both from Girly Fashion. The black netting necklace from Flux adds a dab of art to my look with its structural shapes and unconventional materials, while the sophisticated mink scarf from Instinct Femme just instantly glams up my look.

Accessories Tips

They also feature some nostalgically local jewelry by Ali, a Hong Kong artist; exclusive retro hair accessories from the Jim Collection; as well as vintage inspired glasses from Mido Eyeglasses that are fit for glasses collectors. Go on, surf their website, and discover a whole new world of Hong Kong designs!

Novelty Lane
Website: www.noveltylane.com
Email: info@noveltylane.com

All About Ada – Interview with Ada Pat, Designer of as Ada

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

A French Girl’s Wardrobe for 2011 Fall/Winter

First published in Tell Us Fashion on 15 November 2011.

I was invited to Anne Fontaine’s boutique launch at Elements, and it definitely sparked some great ideas for the coming Fall/Winter. The Rio-born designer incorporates natural fabrics in her brand, creating a French style that smoothly combines the androgynous look with a feminine touch. Look at how this Nabella Jacket, paired with the Giannina belt, accentuates the curves even with the boyish look!

Their latest 2011 F/W collection is inspired by classic French film Un Homme et Une Femme, tying together the masculine and the feminine side within a woman. This collection presents three distinctive styles: the classic black and white strips, the elegant yet retro look, and the rock ‘n roll look with Baroque touch. This white sleeveless shirt with a black pencil skirt is great for work, and I especially love the details on the skirt, creating refinement in an understated manner.

Their Cocktail collection, on the other hand, adds a bit of the spirit from timeless film characters into every woman’s wardrobe. This signature Scarlett Bag is named after the household icon Scarlett O’Hara, whose femininity and sensuality is reflected through the designer’s interpretation. Add a bit of the movie glam to your Christmas with one of these Hollywood worthy accessories!

As for fashion accessories that are well crafted and comfortable, you can’t get any better than Cole Haan. With over a century of experience in making luxury goods combined with Nike’s sneakers technology, they provide the world’s most comfortable heels. These Morgan Air Bow Sandals are dressy yet functional, being inspired by the gentlemen’s smoking slipper, covered with luxurious velvets and quilted satin lining. You shouldn’t miss their sparkling Air Bacara Ballet from their Maria Sharapova collection. All the glossy gold glitter will make sure you shine through the crowd!

Looking for a winter bag to brighten up your day? Their Hayden Marisa Crossbody comes in a variety of bright colours, including dark amber, royal berry and prussian blue. So be it a casual stroll around the park or a Christmas ball, this will be the piece that makes a striking statement. 

Planning to head over to somewhere with sunshine and beach for Christmas? Get a pair of Parisians’ favourite sandals with you to flaunt your immaculate taste! Rondini’s sandals are French classics that are only found in Saint-Tropez, and these python beauties will go well with your resort wear and your bikini.

Fashion Events for November 2011

Published exclusively in this site on 3 November 2011.

I was looking at the list, and it seemed like everyone had the same thing in mind: fashion show, makeovers, canapés, discounts, goodie bags......But hey! Who would complain about too much freebies?

Thursday, 3 November 2011

America's casual wear is spurring around town, and it all began with American Eagle Outfitters. Get ready for their second store's Grand Opening Party at Miramar Shopping Centre tonight, 3 November 2011, from 8:30pm till late. I was there at the opening of their first shop in LCX, and boy do they know how to party! We are still amazed by the popcorn machine they managed to clamp onto their shop last time, so I am sure the cocktails, canapés, and live DJ sounds will be there to impress. What's more? Just like their last opening party, there will be an exclusive discount plus surprise gifts. I have been promised that they will showing their latest collection to Hong Kong for the very first time this evening, so make sure you RSVP here, and stock up on your fur booties tonight!


Monday, 7 November 2011

Discover your artistic side in a luxurious way by joining Lane Crawford and Club Monaco in making a difference this Christmas!  Hong Kong will literally be Wrapped with Love this winter through everyone digging in and knitting squares to create blankets for distribution to local and international families in need through Crossroads International. So how do you show that you care? From Monday, 7 November 2011 to Christmas, 25 December 2011, Lane Crawford will be handing out, from every one of their stores, knitting kits that contains yarn courtesy of Club Monaco, as well as bamboo knitting needles. Knitting workshops will also be available, organised by the Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation. Interested? Drop Sasha a line for further details!

Tuesday, 8 November 2011

Remember S.Nine? They are hosting their very first fashion show in Hong Kong for their 2011 F/W holiday and evening wear collection on next Tuesday, 8 November 2011! Organised by French Tuesdays and set at the brand new Play, canapés will be served starting 7:30pm, and the fashion show will kick off at 9:00pm, collaborating with Karen Collection, a luxurious jewelry brand. This is an uber exclusive private event, so if you really really want to go, drop me an email and I will see what I can do! Get ready for some fantastic ideas for your Christmas balls, and remember, their dress code is dress to impress, so don't arrive in jeans , t-shirt and sneakers.

Wednesday, 9 November 2011

Karen Millen is throwing a party to celebrate her big 3-0 at 6:30pm on next Wednesday, 9 November 2011 in the brand new CENTRAL/CENTRAL, the hottest multi-brand mega-store that everyone is talking about. You can even take a sneak peek at their 30th Anniversary Collections, and enjoy mini-makeovers and Brow Bar services from Benefit Cosmetics, complimentary hair styling with Toni & Guy, as well as some fabulous prizes and goodie bags! What's more? There is also a whooping discount for shopping that evening, so don't wait too long before you RSVP!

Tuesday, 15 November 2011

Aroxta is having yet another event from 2:00pm till 9:00pm on the Tuesday after, 15 November 2011 at Privé, and you can count on a face lift for both your wardrobe and yourself! Not only are you getting a preview of Hong Kong's emerging designs including the latest of Vicious Venom, you will also get some styling tips from Hong Kong’s leading hair stylist Marek Wan and renowned fashion stylist Jasmine Webster! Enjoy the complimentary hand/shoulder massages, tarot card reading, as well as free-flow of Italian canapés courtesy of Barolo. RSVP here now, grab a free gift bag from Aroxta at the door.

Tangram 2012 S/S Private Presentation

Published exclusively in this site on 12 October 2011.

Courtesy of Fred Lam Photography

Maybe you are the type who likes to think ahead. Or perhaps you are planning for your Christmas getaway to Australia or New Zealand. Or maybe you just like to look at beautiful things. In any case, you should RSVP for a sneak peek of Tangram's 2012 Spring/Summer collection tomorrow night, 12 October 2011, from 6:30pm to 9:00pm. You will be guaranteed to a night of colourful clothing and overflowing champagne!

The private presentation will be held at Whitespace Studio, showing their latest collection inspired by vintage Asian motifs and unconventional silhouettes. Their pieces are graceful yet versatile, since each item can be worn in many different ways, creating an effortlessly chic look. By mixing bold and subdued complementary styles, they aim to create quirky but everyday looks.

Courtesy of Fred Lam Photography

Tangram combines the visions of fashion designer Paola Sinisterra and architect Ignacio Garcia, bringing together their knowledge of textiles, graphic arts, and printing. Jointly, they created a line of textiles oriented designs somewhere between vintage and modern, focusing upon colours, textures and comfort. Their pieces are specifically made for confident woman who enjoys experimenting with fashion, so come along tomorrow, and see what you make of it!

Courtesy of Fred Lam Photography

Tangram 2012 S/S Private Presentation

Address: Whitespace Studio, 3/F Bonham Centre, 79-85 Bonham Strand East, Sheung Wan

Date: 12 October 2011
Time: 6:30pm to 9:00pm

RSVP: hello@tngrm.net

The Casual Chic Look - Preview Of Seed Women's Wear Store Opening

First published in Elysiants on 7 January 2012.

Last night, Keely and I were invited to take a sneak peek of Seed, a new women’s wear store at The Repulse Bay, right before their official opening tomorrow, 17 September 2011. If you are from Australia, you really don't need any further introductions to this brand. It is a household name down under, with their businesses first started in children's wear, then expanded on to women's wear. The style they strive to achieve is easy to wear with a sense of playfulness, which could be seen all over their store. Did you know that Hong Kong is their first stop outside Australia? Now aren't we lucky!

We were joined by Karla Fitzpatrick, Seed's Head Designer, and Laura Konrads, Seed's PR and Communications Manager, who flew all the way over from Australia to tell us all about their latest 2011 F/W collection. Karla confessed that she absolutely adored the shopping scene in Hong Kong, so it is very exciting for her personally that Seed Femme is settling here. The opening of their Repulse Bay shop will soon be followed by launches in Causeway Bay and Central, which is so scarily close to work I might just lose my way in it during lunch hours. Karla walked Keely and I through the shop, and showed us their cotton, linen, and silk garments in warm neutral tones, as well as their knitwear and sequin pieces, which is great for sparking up the entire look.

After watching the models changed into several different styles, Keely and I decided to start trying on some of their stuff ourselves. I had a loose sleeveless terracotta coloured dress on with a calf length shirt, a flowy print scarf, some raw looking bangles, and a pair of comfortable khaki ankle boots. Keely, on the other hand, tried on a two toned sleeveless top with tight fitting jeans, pearl embellishment, and some snug black ankle boots. I didn't expect that it would have matched my usual style so well, and the line is definitely great for someone with a busy, active life who wants to remain fashionable, since you can throw the pieces on effortlessly. Keely liked the top so much that she almost ripped it off Jessica, the lovely PR, who had Keely's size on.

This season's collection, named Global Luxe, was inspired from trends around the world with soft stripes against vibrant prints. The dress I had on will make great resort wear, while the grey suede block heels I am wearing on this photo I fell in love with as soon as they glided on my feet. I can't better describe them than elegant yet comfortable, so I knew I had to buy it there and then. As I am typing this, these lovelies are sitting comfortably under my feet, and it feels just like walking on clouds. Karla promised there will be a black version of it out in a few months' time, so Keely quickly made a mental note on coming back for them as soon as they arrive. The best part about Seed is that their racks are updated monthly, so every time you drop by there is guaranteed something new. Keely loved the ruffles on her white top in this photo so much that after much struggle, she finally gave in and bought it as well. The sequin shorts she had on will add something extra to your daily look. As Karla said, this is the best way to wear sequin during daytime, subtle yet eye catching.

We headed over to Seed's children's wear shop right next door, which has been here already for some time. Keely was at their children's shop in Lee Gardens before, shopping for her young cousins, and this time we found a cute birdie bag that we loved. Obviously we don't fit the clothes, but the accessories are fabulous, so you should really drop by as well while you are in Repulse Bay for Seed Femme. They are officially opening tomorrow, so go ahead, enjoy the sunshine at Repulse Bay, and get some fashion staples for your fall/winter wardrobe!

Seed
Address: The Repulse Bay, 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay
Telephone: 2803 1677
Email: customerenquiries@seedheritage.com
Website: http://www.seedheritage.com/

Shopping Just Got Better With Prêt Fête

Published exclusively in this site on 25 August 2011.

Gunjan and Sunaina was busing digging all over India for priceless designs, and we are lucky enough to be gulping down some amazing drinks and canapés while browsing through their finds!

Prêt Fête, as the shopping fiesta is called, will be hosting a sneak preview at Envie from 4pm to 7pm on 26 August 2011. How could you not visit the latest lounge bar on Wyndham and get your hands on one of these alluring maxi-dresses?

The real deal will go live from 11am to 6pm on 27 August 2011 and 28 August 2011 at Entourage, an esteemed restaurant proudly serving mouthwatering dishes. It doesn't get any better than combining yummy food with yummy clothes. Mark your diaries now!

Viniga 2012 Autumn/Winter Fashion Show

Published exclusive in this site on 30 June 2011.

Still thinking of where to go for Canada Day celebrations tonight? Head over to Drop for a sneak peek of Viniga’s 2012 A/W collections at their ultra chic fashion show!

Viniga is a new label designed by a Hong Kong based South African, Brigitte Mitchell-Da Silva. They pay extra attention to every step, ensuring that each piece of garment is unique and comfortable. If you are a trendsetting fashionista, this is definitely the place to be tonight.

Cocktails start at 6:00pm and the show at 7:00pm. Especially for tonight, what better location can you be at other than Drop? Conveniently located in the heart of Central, you can head straight to the Canada Day street party after a magical fashion show. RSVP now!