Rupert Sanderson Store

Perhaps not a discovery for those whom have lived in Hong Kong for more than 1 year, but a great little street for shopping in Central is On Lan, near Landmark.  I am not a fan of shopping in Central, which is too saturated with the typical bland luxury stores, but this street is worth a stroll.  One such shop is Rupert Sanderson, a UK based shoe designer.  I haven't given Rupert much attention over the years, in large part, because I never held a shoe in my hand.  His shoes are extremely well made, in large part as they are 100% italian made.  I don't believe most luxury brands are producing their shoes much in Italy and the decreased quality standards are apparent, particularly when the soles of their shoes fall apart after 1 month of usage.  Rupert's shoes are on another level.  Also, he seems to be paving a new trend, lower heel, simple design and feminine.  

Hong Kong Work Boots

I have become a bit obsessed with Hong Kong workers (factory, restaurant) whom wear white wellies/work boots.  It's fashionable without trying and makes for amazing uniforms.  You often see men wearing them on the streets, the boots serve a function, yet look so sexy. It has given me inspiration.  Finding such "working class" wellies is not an easy task, as they are all too girlie with flower or plaid designs and generally trying to hard to make a statement.  Over the holiday, I found the perfect pair.  Awaiting a rainy day to wear them and fortunately, today is their debut.  Oh yes, and bright yellow.

Moustache Mens Store & Bespoke Tailoring

Moustache, a mens clothing store on Aberdeen Street in Sheung Wan is one of my favorite stores in Hong Kong.  The owners Jaye and Ellis opened their shop in 2009 with roots from New York City (they both moved to HK in 2005).  Their clothing is impeccably made, with top fabrics and a tailored, yet vintage edge to their clothing.  Most compelling to me, is that they also offer bespoke tailoring for both men and women.  As someone whom is interested in shifting my style toward a more masculine and bespoke look, I have found my new fashion collaborators for 2011.  Their eye for detail, strong sense of styling, and sophisticated taste make them by far the best tailor in HK.  

http://moustachehongkong.com/eng

Traditional Hong Kong Candy

I was introduced to traditional HK candy a few weeks ago at an art opening.  Not only are they great tasting, but the design is brilliant.  Whilst in Hong Kong, you can visit a famous shop in Sheung Wan, Chan Yee Chai, where you can purchase local snacks and sweets.

Hong Kong Culture

The new super food

Pak Tai Temple, Wan Chai, Mix of old and new

Pak Tai Temple, Outside

Historic Blue House Tenement

Chef singing opera, post meal, Da Ping Huo

I realize I am becoming one of those New Yorkers, whom judge everything by New York City.  I shared a taxi with stranger this weekend, after exchanging introductory pleasantries, he astutely told me I mentioned NYC about 8 times in our 15 minute taxi ride.  Sometimes it takes a stranger to point out the annoying parts of your character.  With this noted, I fell into a weekend completely respecting and honoring the reality that I am living here and am actually having an amazing experience.  On to the next chapter of my life here, where I completely embrace my surroundings.

I had dinner at a Sichuan restaurant, Da Pin Huo.  Husband and wife team, whom opens their sophisticated restaurant for 2 seatings each night.  If you enjoy authentic and extremely hot food in a calm setting, book a reservation.  We ate a plant, see photo above, which overtook my mouth in a way that I have never experienced.  It was tingly, sour, sweet, hot, and present, for 10 minutes after a bite.  Has a hint of the indian tamarind, but unlike anything I will ever taste again.  Anyone know the medicinal qualities?  Share.

On Sunday morning, woke up to a walking tour of Wan Chai.  Our tour guide was fortunately an activist,  rather than a romantic tourist version, we discovered the area, thru the eyes of someone whom has first hand experienced the plight of the locals trying desperately to hold on to historic buildings.

Back to fashion this week.  Just needed a bit of depth....

Peter Lau, Shop Sheung Wan

If you are looking for interpretations of traditional Chinese dress, check out Peter Lau's shop on 168 Queens Road Central.  Peter, a veteran of the HK fashion industry for 20 years, established his own label for special occasion wear and since launched a 2nd line called, China Doll, targeting teenagers.  Peter designs his own fabrics and prints, inspired by vintage Chinese fabrics.  His designs are certainly for the more adventure oriented dresser.  Its a special store and often times you will find Peter upstairs working in his studio.  The pieces are nostalgic and sexy.  Perfect for a Western New Years eve dress, or Chinese New Year celebration.

L-Atitude E-Commerce Site

I have been guest writing for the blog component of a new e-commerce site, L-Atitude.  L'Atitude is a New York based shopping site that offers fashion accessories, clothing, and lifestyle products from Mumbai, Hong Kong, Manila, Milan, New York and Istanbul.  It is a great concept, as it gives women the ability to shop the globe, into destinations one has yet to visit.
http://www.shoplatitude.com/

Here is a latest article on the site at vogue.com:
http://www.vogue.com/vogue-daily/article/new-e-commerce-site-l-atitude-is-the-global-shoppers-choice/