Hong Kong Fashion Geek

Friday, December 11, 2009

Italian Stallions

I have a confession to make. I went to Posto Pubblico for lunch with a bunch of other press types, and while others ooh-ed and aah-ed over dishes like Bucatini or their Brooklyn sandwich or their mushroom trifolata (admittedly, delicious), I was more enamoured with their executive pastry chef, AJ Bellarosa, who not only has the best name ever (imagine that, Mrs ShoeGeek Bellarosa, doesn't that have such exotic flair?) but also is just the most adorable person ever.

Besides having eyelashes to die for and a smile to melt the coldest heart, Bellarosa and the rest of the New Yorker team, which includes Robert Spina and Todd Darling (note: also a great last name), are doing things differently by caring about the environment. In terms of ingredients, this means using sustainable local ingredients wherever possible, from farms in areas of Hong Kong you've never heard of but will want to visit after tasting some of their dishes. This is food with care -- besides friendly sourcing practices, the team has also put ample effort into ensuring the food is up to scratch. If this meant experimenting with bread-baking on a daily basis for six months, in order to adapt to Hong Kong's humidity levels, then that's what they did.

The result is good-quality, wholesome New York Italian fare like the owners used to eat at home -- although admittedly, some of their homes featured New York restauranteurs, so it's not exactly like YOUR momma would have made. The pizzas are simple, the pasta consistent and there are more adventurous areas for those who wish to go there. But ladies, maybe just pay this place a visit to tell me if I'm crazy to be having this pastry-chef crush, or if he actually placed me under a spell by putting something in that dreamy lemony dessert thing.

Bag Lady: Burberry Heart Collection Hobo

How cute is this bag? Burberry classic plaid pattern infused with hearts. Perfect for showing your sentimental side.
Get it at Burberry stores for HK$5,500

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Put a Ring On It

Slight obsession with rings lately. Forever 21, random shop in Singapore x 2, Moxsie two-finger ring.

Geek Gab: The Retreat Spa

As the weather turns decidedly cooler, it's time to update our skincare regime. We sit down with Antonia Lai, Spa Manager of The Retreat, for tips and advice.

Hong Kong Fashion Geek:What with winter approaching, what advice to you have for our skincare regimes?
Antonia Lai: Maintain a basic skincare routine - cleanse, tone and moisturise. Use sun protection moisturizer during the day. Try to use a moisturising mask at least once to twice a week, and for weather like now, at least twice. Avoid the sauna as well, it will dehydrate your skin.

HKFG: What is the one product that everyone should use regardless of age?
AL: If I could choose only one product, it would definitely a moisturizing sunscreen. This is the key product to protect your skin from sun damage which equals to aging.

HKFG: What is the best way to combat anti-aging?
AL: Maintain a healthy lifestyle and a basic skincare routine. Don’t forget to protect your skin as well! UV can damage and dehydrate your skin, and that causes ageing.

HKFG: What sort of lifestyle changes would you recommend in order to prevent aging?
AL: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, smoking....etc. Again, protect your skin from the sun!

For those who are still looking for Christmas presents, check out The Retreats list of Christmas hampers. My favourite is definitely the one for mothers with newly born babies.

Mums & Bubs Hamper
Mothers in need of pampering can treat themselves and their bundles of joy with the Mums & Bubs Hamper, which includes organic skincare baby products from Babies Only and Earth Mama to ensure that only the purest and natural ingredients come in contact with both mama and baby’s skin.

Dead Sea Extravaganza Hamper
Women looking to turn back the clocks of time can look into the Dead Sea Extravaganza Hamper, which features a line of exclusive skincare products and masks from the Mineral Care range created with minerals and plant extracts from the Dead Sea, known since ancient time for their anti-ageing effects on the skin.

Organic Spa Essentials
Au naturel beauties will love Organic Spa Essentials, which combines products created with bergamot, orange, lavender, rose, and petit grain essential oils to restore your face and body the natural way.

The Sweet Retreat Hamper
Perfect for someone who needs to relax and unwind with our handpicked selection of calming teas, candles and diffusers, and skincare pampering products.

Detox Retox Hamper
For the ultimate accessory for a Merry Christmas and a revitalised New Year, get the Detox Retox Hamper and indulge your body with luxurious products from Murad and Mineral Care to seriously nourish, protect, and smooth your skin in the ultimate relaxation experience.

The Retreat
1/Floor
33 Beach Road
Repulse Bay
Hong Kong
T: 2803‐1860