Hong Kong Fashion Geek: April 2014

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Alexander McQueen Pop-up Store

I'm a die hard McQueen accessories fan and inadvertently let out a squee when I saw that the brand has opened its first-ever Hong Kong pop-up shop at Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui over the Easter weekend. The store has launched with a collection of bags, jewellery, sunglasses, silks and footwear for men and women from the Spring/Summer 2014 collection. Keep an eye out for signature McQueen pieces such as the evening box and knuckle-box clutches, skull scarves. Opened until end of the year.

Alexander McQueen
Shop 117A, Level 1
Ocean Centre, Harbour City
Kowloon
T +852 2392 9013

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Youka Review: Low-Key Japanese

hkLifestyleGeek checked out Youka

Situated on a corner with dark wall siding, Youka can be hard to find at first. But once you press the button to open the door, inside is a warm welcoming place that serves top-notch Japanese cuisine.

"Youka" literally means "eighth day" and a Japanese writer once wrote about a cicada that lived for eight days, which is unusually as they usually live for seven. He imagined this particular cicada would have had a nirvana-like experience, free from the other cicadas. Another interpretation is that God created the world in seven days and so by the eighth day, man had developed the arts, culture and cuisine.

As a result, diners here are treated to a gourmet experience presented by seasoned chef Ito Katsuhiro, who has lived in Hong Kong for over 20 years and previously worked at Sagano in Hotel Nikko and his own restaurant Tensho on Jaffe Road. And not just devoted followers of chef Ito come to Youka, but also government officials and top businessmen, including former Chief Executive Donald Tsang who seems to have gained some weight now that he's retired...

For starters the soramamae beans (HK$90), large broad beans that were a nice change from the usual edamame. Stepping it up was a bowl of rape blossom with King Taraba crab (HK$90) that was refreshing and sweet.

Next came raw firefly squid with ponzu miso and shallots (HK$90), with the squid having a delicate taste that was drowned out by the sauce. Nevertheless we savoured the deluxe sashimi platter (HK$780), with slices of yellowtail, hamachi, salmon, prawns, scallops and a generous helping of uni that we wrapped in seaweed.

Then we moved onto cooked dishes, such as the right-eyed flounder (HK$220), braised in a thick soy sauce, and grilled US beef terriyaki style ($250). A standout was the grilled Kurobuta pork marinated with rice yeast (HK$150). Eaten with thinly sliced raw onions it was a delicious combination that seemed to further enhance the pork taste.

Assorted tempura (HK$180) is nothing new here, though we tried the seasonal sakura ebi (HK$80), small fish deep-fried together, but their sweet taste seemed to be lost.

Finally -- if that wasn't enough -- the kohada sushi (HK$50 each) was fantastic, very fresh tasting and refreshing when compared to the sea eel sushi (HK$55) that was more sweet. Nevertheless Youka is a place for quality Japanese food that won't hit the bank.

Youka
Shop 1D, 35-45 Johnston Road
Wan Chai
2833 5188
youka.hk

Monday, April 28, 2014

Be a Vuitton Bride

You don't naturally associate Louis Vuitton with weddings, because it's a sturdy and classic brand, not one of those frou-frou floaty acts (which is not a negative thing, just a bridal pre-req, no?)

But lo and behold, a press release was sent out touting the above collage of products suitable for brides and grooms. I'm not sure if I buy into using a logo clutch on my Big Day, or a watch with a black strap, but there are some cute ideas -- blue sandals for your "something blue". Tasseled necklaces for a Boho bride. Art-deco drop earrings in nice conservative lengths. Who knows, maybe we could all be LV brides. Budget permitting, that is.

Geek Peek: Marielle Byworth

The lovely Marielle Byworth has recently opened her flagship store MARIJOLI at PMQ, the new heritage site in Sheung Wan. I first encountered Marielle a few years ago when she was doing trunk shows around town and it's exciting to see how she's realised her dream of opening up a flagship in what is sure to be the hotspot of town. Read on to see what fashion item she can't live without, her secret beauty weapon and her most recent Google searches.

HKFG: What fashion item can’t you live without?
MB:Anything La Perla! It makes you feel incredibly feminine.

HKFG: What’s the thing you could live without... but still can’t bear to part with?
MB:My iPhone

HKFG: What’s your favourite thing about Hong Kong?
MB:The fact you can start the morning with sunrise yoga, work and play hard all day in Central, and see the sun set at the beach with your kids. It’s a wonderful city.

HKFG: Your ultimate indulgence food or go-to food when you’re stressing out?
MB:I absolutely love MANA flats (organic flatbread wraps), followed by a wheat grass shot. Eating food that nourishing and healthy is really important to me

HKFG: What was your first big investment purchase?
MB:A Cabriolet Smart Car; it followed me from London all the way to Club 55 in St Tropez during my student era.

HKFG: Name your secret-weapon beauty product.
MB:Dior lipstick in fuchsia

HKFG: What’s your favourite iPhone app?
MB:I’ve just started using a new app called Spottly. It’s very handy to travel with.

HKFG: What were your last five Google searches?
MB: Zen, Cloud, Thesaurus, Jewels by JAR, What Essentials

Friday, April 25, 2014

Bag Lady: Charlotte Olympia Handcuff Perspex Clutch

So bloody cute! Nuff said.

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

SHOErotica: Sergio Rossi Arte Povera Sneakers

In the wake of the Nike x Riccardo Tisci tornado, Sergio Rossi is introducing some funky fashion sneaks too. The brand has taken inspiration from the Arte Povera movement, better translated as art of po' folks, which was basically in the late 60s, early 70s, when artists -- gasp! -- went all anti-establishment in their oeuvres. Translation: lots of colourful craziness.

Pre order at Sergio Rossi.

Gisele Singing Blondie

Gisele Bündchen sings? Apparently so. H&M has just released a music video of the supermodel singing. Gisele is the face and voice of H&M’s 2014 summer campaign and recorded this cover of Heart of Glass by Blondie, produced by Bob Sinclair. Roylaties from the song will be donated to UNICEF. Download the song at http://smarturl.it/Heart0fGlass

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Beauty Notes: Vichy Aqualia Thermal Dynamic Hydration Serum

Did you all have a good Easter break? I spent it eating loads as well as trying out a bunch of new beauty products. First up is the Vichy Aqualia Thermal Dynamic Hydration Serum. I was finding the change in weather to be a pain in the butt given that my T-zone was going a bit nuts so I had some hesitation in changing up my skincare routine. To my surprise, I found that when I tried out the Vichy Aqualia Thermal Dynamic Hydration Serum, my face didn't go insane and in fact quite cheerfully accepted the change while helping brighten the slight dullness that I seem to be sprouting. Now I have no idea if it's the placebo effect and the fact that I was on holiday so my face should naturally brighten at the thought of having more sleep and time to myself but I did find this serum to be quite refreshing and uplifting. Priced at HK$350 for 30ml.

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Maison Martin Margiela for Atelier Swarovski Crystalactite Collection

Feeling the love for this Maison Martin Margiela for Atelier Swarovski Crystalactite Collection exclusively available at Harvey Nichols.

Monday, April 14, 2014

Alexander Wang x H&M

So the next collaboration is with Alexander Wang. Thoughts? Tired of these designer collections or still looking forward to it? Think we can get anything more basic than his plain tees at H&M? I'm interested to see what sort of stuff he will come up with and as always, I want to know what he will do in terms of accessories and bags, more bags than anything. The full collection will be available in 250 H&M stores worldwide, and online starting November 6, 2014.

Friday, April 11, 2014

Hong Kong, Macau and China. What's the Dif?

Loving this video from CGP Grey about the differences between Hong Kong, Macau and China. It's our history! In stick figures! With a little bit of snark! What else do you want on a Friday morning?

Thursday, April 10, 2014

John Hardy Bamboo Collection

Loving me some bamboo jewellery from John Hardy in particular the necklace on the far left in the top photos. Simple, elegant but then knowing how I don't bother changing up my necklaces, it might not be too practical to wear on a daily basis. I guess it depends on how structured it is.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

How I Met Your Mother DVD

Were you as pissed off at the ending of HIMYM as the rest of the world? I had given up on the series a couple seasons ago only to decide to marathon watch when I knew it was ending and yeah, not a happy camper. Yet I'm still kinda looking forward to watching How I Met Your Dad. I know I know, no good things happen on spin offs, Joey was the prime example but I still want to check it out. Anyway, the creators have decided to release an alternate ending to the series and it will be included in the DVD set when it comes out this fall. I can't tell if this is a brilliant marketing ploy to drive sales. Step 1, piss off the fans. Step 2, tell them if they buy the DVD set, they will get possibly the ending they want. Step 3, sit back and watch the money flow in.

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Chel By Cheline

I don't know about you but whenever I'm travelling, if I want to keep my clothing light, then I will load up on accessories. In my mind, something as simple as accessories can totally change the feel of the outfit (in addition to making sure you bring some separates so you can mix and match.) If you're like me, then you will probably love my friend Cheline's jewellery travellers. She has designed a series of boxes that can help you put all your accessories together in one place and tangle free when you travel. Check them out at niin (on Wyndham Street), Konzepp (in Sheung Wan)or online at www.chelbycheline.com

SHOErotica: Sophia Webster Penelope

Love means buying a 39.5 when you're a size 38 and wearing them anyway.

Monday, April 7, 2014

Geek Peek: Claus Lindorff from Ron Dorff

Kapok recently brought the French-Swedish urban sportswear brand behind the claim DISCIPLINE IS NOT A DIRTY WORD, Ron Dorff, to the Hong Kong market and we got a chance to learn more about the founder behind the brand when Clauf Lindorff was in town. Read on to discover his latest Google searches. Be sure to check out the collection at Kapok as well!

HKFG: What’s on your lust list?
CL: A weekend in my country house outside Paris
A long, cool dinner at the Ivy, my favourite restaurant in London.
A Swedish Massage at the Ice Hotel in Sweden.

HKFG: What fashion item can’t you live without?
CL: My Stan Smith tennis shoes

HKFG: What’s the thing you could live without... but still can’t bear to part with?
CL: A glass of chilled Pouilly-Fumé.

HKFG: What’s your favourite thing about Hong Kong?
CL: The buzzing atmosphere and the amazing and bold architecture.

HKFG: Tell us your secret ambition.
CL: To open up a RON DORFF flagship store in Hong Kong within the next two years.

HKFG: What’s the song that you sing in the shower?
CL:"Happy" by Pharrell Williams

HKFG: Your ultimate indulgence food or go-to food when you’re stressing out?
CL: Danish hot dogs with loads of mustard and ketchup….

HKFG: The celebrity you would most like to be/trade places with is…
CL: I prefer to be myself and most importantly I prefer not be a celebrity.

HKFG: What was your first big investment purchase?
CL: A flat in the Marais neighbourhood in Paris

HKFG:What you would wish for if a genie came out of a lamp to grant you three wishes?
CL: Lifelong happiness, health and love.

HKFG: Name your secret-weapon beauty product.
CL: The body scrub from the RON DORFF SKIN DISCIPLINE line with arctic lingonberry as active ingredient.

HKFG: What’s your worst nightmare?
CL: Not being able to travel around the world anymore.

HKFG: Last thing you think about before going to sleep?
CL: New designs for the upcoming collection.

HKFG: What’s your favourite iPhone app?
CL: Shazam

HKFG: What were your last five Google searches?
CL: Cathay Pacific
kapok
Upper House
Hong Kong Esquire
Skin Discipline

Friday, April 4, 2014

Red Lip, Mascara, Action!

red lips mascara

I think I've pretty narrowed down the amount of make-up a girl needs to wear in order to leave the house looking like she made an effort. I used to think that it was a red lip and well-defined eyeliner but now I'm pretty certain that it's actually just that lip with MASCARA. And if you follow beauty blogs, you'll know that this is because the newest thing on the block is layering mascara -- sweep on some volumizing, add a curling one and then bang on some lengthening formula while you're at it. Bam! Beauty routine done. Arguably using three different mascaras is just as much effort as putting on more other make-up, but I like the simplicity of this idea.

Check out some of our fave red lippies and mascaras!

Lancôme lancome mascara, $37 / Chanel mascara / AERIN red lipstick / Burberry lipstick / Yves Saint Laurent lipstick / Givenchy mascara / Christian Dior mascara, $38 / Yves Saint Laurent mascara, $41 / Ilia blue mascara, $33 / Benefit waterproof mascara / NARS Cosmetics red lipstick / MAC Cosmetics lipstick / Red lipstick

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Net a Porter x V&A Jewellery Collection

Currently coveting the jewellery collection that is a collaboration between Net a Porter and London's Victoria and Albert Museum. Created to celebrate The Glamour of Italian Fashion 1945-2014 exhibition, this collection launched yesterday. Since I can't go check out the exhibition, it's only natural to want to shop this collection instead. Comprising 22 pieces, the pieces are produced by Dolce & Gabbana, Etro, Marni, Missoni and Moschino. Plus, 10% of proceeds go to the museum so technically I'm contributing to the heritage of the museum and being some sort of arty farty patron right?

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Farewell Television Without Pity

Can't believe that Twop is closing by end of this week. While I don't visit as much anymore, I still spent endless hours reading snarky recaps and it was the site I turn to for commentary on shows that I watch when I can't find Christina to discuss. Been feeling particularly nostalgic recently what with the Veronica Mars movie finally happening (and being instructed by Christina to watch it asap so we can discuss when we meet) and now seeing a former staple of my regular reading vaporising (they won't even be keeping the recaps available for public consumption!). Thanks for the many many many days of keeping me entertained with hundreds of thousands of words Twop. You kept me away from boredom during many a summer internship. You'll be missed.

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

House Porn: White on White on White

For people who never eat spaghetti and don't own fluffy and sheddy corgis, white on white on white could be a viable interior design scheme, although for me, it's probably nothing more than a pipe dream. I'm not sure I could stand living in such a sanitary atmosphere, but I will say I like looking at it.

Decadent Sweets

hkLifestyleGeek visits the Peninsula Boutique

Looking to tame your sugar cravings with delicious quality treats? The Peninsula Boutique has the answer with an array of new pastries and chocolates to take home and savour.

A gorgeous-looking cake is the Madagascar vanilla mousse with mixed berry jelly roulade (HK$45). Not too sweet, it features a vanilla mousse wrapped around a mixed berry jelly and covered in a sponge cake.

For those wanting the hotel's famous scones but doesn't want to wait in line for afternoon tea can get a set from the boutique. The classic afternoon tea and scone set (HK$88) includes two scones, strawberry preserves, homemade clotted cream and two Peninsula tea bags. Hire a quartet to play and you're set!

Or for a sweet treat, the eclairs (HK$35) here are divine. Flavours include chocolate, vanilla or Hong Kong-style milk tea custard.

But if it's chocolates you're after The Peninsula Boutique has many tempting varieties to choose from. The boutique is selling large square tablets, the best one being the North Venezuelan 70 percent Chuao grand cru (HK$350 for 130g) made from a single origin cocoa. It's smooth, complex and has lingering subtle fruity flavours.

There's also milk chocolate tablets with hazelnuts or smoked almonds, both HK$250 each for 150g. There's also assorted almond rocks, or almond slivers and rice crispies covered in milk and white chocolate (HK$250) per jar.

Another interesting bite are the milk and dark chocolate squares with nuts and dried fruits (HK$250 per jar). The square each have a bit of hazelnut, pistachios, dried figs and raisins, so it's a bit healthy.

Last but not least are the chocolate-covered orange peels that are to die for. The peels are sourced from Italian oranges that are air dried overnight before they are coated in dark chocolate. They're priced at HK$360 per jar and sadly you have to wait until mid-May for them to be available.

But then again good things come to those who wait...

With Easter coming up The Peninsula Boutique also has Easter-themed goodies, from cookies and pralines to chocolate eggs. Don't miss the "super chicks" showing off their muscled arms from cracked chocolate eggs!

The Peninsula Boutique
The Peninsula Arcade
Salisbury Road
Tsim Sha Tsui
2696 6969
peninsulaboutique.com

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