Hong Kong Umbrellas

It is quite fashionable in Hong Kong to carry an umbrella. And unlike, India, it is easy to find an umbrella, they are everywhere. Even the 7-11's (they are like Starbucks in the US, in terms of presence) have their own branded umbrella (in multi-rainbow colors). I am wondering when Louis Vuitton will come out with their $1000 USD version (mainland Chinese would buy it). Or perhaps, they already have.

Yes, these umbrellas protect during rainy season, but most importantly they protect the Asian (female) skin from sun damage. Women here are fanatical about maintaining white skin. Wait, Indians are the same, think this is a colonialist bi-product. When the British invaded both HK and India, the English ladies had parasols glued to their fingers.

Oh, and bring your own sunscreen to HK, unless you prefer UV 80+

Umbrella's, Raincoats, Wellies..Not In India

Monsoon Wedding, the perfect name for my pop up shop idea

Vogue India is a bit out of touch, $80 USD for an umbrella, in India?

Its a magical time...despite the lack of umbrellas, view looking out from my flat

It is monsoon season in India, out of nowhere, rains, heavy ones, fall out of the sky. No one is ever prepared. Not only is it tough to get around and find a taxi, but it is even more of a challenge to find an umbrella. Indians are similar to New Yorkers, they never carry umbrellas and can never find them when they need one. I keep searching for pop up stores throughout Mumbai, in little spaces and make-shift stands, that sale raincoats, wellies and umbrellas at affordable prices for the burgeoning middle class (sorry Vogue India, but those in India whom can afford a $80 umbrella never walk in the rain, they have drivers, at all times). Seasonal stores, don't seem to exist, yet make-shift stands and street shopping are abundant.

Rain gear can be made is masses, relatively cheap, and what Indian woman doesn't like prints and bright colors, both perfectly suitable for rain gear. A necessary purchase each season. And usually a repurchase each season..you always loose these items. 1.2 billion people. Millions get caught in the rain daily. You do the math. I get 20% if anyone takes this idea and runs with it.