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Fashion lovers, prepare for a stunning experience as M+ unveils "Guo Pei: Fashioning Imagination," opening on Sept. 21, 2024. This highly anticipated exhibition, running until April 6, 2025, marks the first major showcase of Guo Pei’s work in East Asia.
Renowned as China’s leading couture designer, Guo Pei is celebrated for her breathtaking designs that blend traditional Chinese elements with global influences.
M+
Her designs draw inspiration from Eastern folklore, fantasy, and architectural marvels, making each piece a unique work of art. Guo Pei has dressed notable figures, including Chinese celebrities like Song Zuying at the 2008 Beijing Olympics Closing Ceremony and Rihanna, who was wearing Guo Pei's daring yellow Empress Cape at the 2015 Met Gala, capturing attention worldwide.
The exhibition showcases over 40 haute couture pieces, including the pop star's iconic Met Gala gown, and selections from key collections spanning nearly 30 years of her career, as well as Guo Pei's early designs.
Organized into five main themes, the display highlights Guo Pei's distinctive style, which resonates with imperial Chinese dress codes, European royal fashion, architectural influences, and botanical motifs.
To kick off the exhibition, Guo Pei will give a special talk on Sept. 21. Additionally, M+ will host two screenings of "Yellow Is Forbidden," a biographical documentary that chronicles Guo Pei’s journey through the elite and often exclusionary world of haute couture.
Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Guo Pei. Tickets to the exhibition are priced at HK$160 for standard tickets and HK$80 for concessions. They also offer discounted rates for those getting dual passes, M+ members, and M+ patrons. Find out more here.
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With Chinese New Year just around the corner, the search for the perfect cheongsam – or qipao, as it’s known in Mandarin – is officially on.
Literally meaning ‘long dress’(or ‘duen sam’ for shorter styles in Hong Kong), the cheongsam has long been a cultural staple.
Thanks to master tailors who fled Shanghai in the 1940s, Hong Kong became a haven for top-notch tailoring, and by the 1960s, its film scene had turned the cheongsam into a bona fide star.
Maggie Cheung’s lineup of elegant cheongsamsIn the Mood for Love is still remembered as an iconic look to this day, reviving the global obsession in the garment and proving that its wow factor never went out of style.
The cheongsam has a traditional Manchu silhouette defined by a high mandarin collar, fitted waist, side slits, and intricate Chinese frog fasteners. Whether you’re dressing for a family gathering, wedding banquet, or an intimate Chinese New Year soirée with friends, there’s no better time to let this timeless garment shine.
If you finally wish to retire the cheongsam that’s been hanging untouched in your wardrobe, we’ve rounded up our favorite spots to help you find the cheongsam of your dreams. Whether you want to splurge on a custom-made piece or are shopping smart on a budget, here’s our edit of cheongsams worth slipping into this festive season.
1. Yan Shang Kee
Instagram/ Yan Shang Kee
When it comes to qipaos in Hong Kong, there’s no place quite like Yan Shang Kee. As one of the city’s last remaining specialists offering both custom-made and ready-to-wear cheongsams and located in Central, Yan Shang Kee strikes a sweet spot between timeless elegance and modern flair.
Yan Shang Kee's owner Ding regularly travels to Japan to source standout fabrics, which are then sent straight to a qipao-making master in Shanghai to be meticulously hand-crafted. Striking the perfect sweet spot between timeless elegance and modern flair, classic cuts are reworked with playful prints and stretchy fabrics, adding just the right amount of contemporary drama.
Their fitting process is refreshingly efficient, taking just half an hourto lock in your fabric, design, and details. For those after a photo op, the studio also offers 30-minute qipao rentals from HK$480, with cheongsam rentals starting at HK$320. Forgot your accessories? No stress. The studio stocks clutches, purses, heels, and flats, and even offers hairstyling if you’re going all out.
Photographer hire is available at an additional cost. Custom qipaos are available from HK$4,600, with full customization – from fabrics and textures to buttons and binding, and a two- to three-month turnaround – perfect for if you want to plan ahead for celebrations.
Location: Ground Floor No.4, Wing Lee Street, Central, Hong Kong
2. Shanghai Tang
Instagram/ Shanghai Tang
Shanghai Tang has made its name by reimagining classic Chinese silhouettes for the modern luxury woman.
Inspired by the glamor of 1930s Shanghai, they are one of the first brands to modernize the qipao by bringing it out of the Chinese closet and putting it on the world stage.
Their heritage pieces are infused with a Western touch — from peony-adorned silk jacquards to delicate rose-print cottons to sleek jersey cheongsams — their designs are high-end yet wearable and made to last. If you’re looking for something more modern, their latest collection Tang Qipao will be sure to turn heads, featuring unexpected textures and luxe tones, like plush gold velvet and pristine white silk that feel effortlessly chic.
Browse their full collections here or find them in multiple locations in Hong Kong.
3. SAU LEE
Instagram/ SAU LEE
A Hong Kong–based label with strong international appeal, Sau Lee has become a go-to for modern cheongsams embraced by both trend -conscious young adults and style-savvy older generations.
Founded in 2014 by Cheryl Leung, the brand has built a cult following thanks to its fresh, high-glam take on eveningwear and the traditional cheongsam –all dialed up with a contemporary edge.
Rooted in Chinese craftsmanship but never stuck in the past, Sau Lee reimagines heritage with a refined sense of rebellion. You’ll spot it in statement pieces like brocade corsets finished with pipa knots, cheongsam minis with contrast trims and beaded pankou buttons, and the brand’s iconic Isa dress.
Designed for today’s cosmopolitan heroine, Sau Lee is all about making an entrance. If you’re after something modern, memorable, and unapologetically glamorous, this is one label you’ll want on your radar.
Location: SAU LEE Showroom, 128 Wellington Street, 5th Floor
4. Yi-ming
Instagram/ Yi-Ming
Founded by fashion designer and former model Grace Choi, this homegrown Hong Kong label offers ready-to-wear pieces designed for the city’s modern, style-conscious clientele.
Drawing from oriental art and aesthetics, Yi-ming reinterprets traditional Chinese elements with a subtle contemporary twist, balanced with the functionality and versatility demanded by Hong Kong’s fast-paced lifestyle.
Expect everything from bold retro prints and contrast-printed qipaos to embroidered silk cape dresses, all infused with a feminine, playful spirit. Details like ruffled drop sleeves add softness and movement, offering a fresh, expressive take on modern Chinese dressing tailored to Hong Kong tastes, ideal for those looking to ease into Chinese-inspired styles.
Browse the collections here or catch them in-store.
Location: 50A Tung Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
5. Linva Tailor
Facebook/ Linva Tailor
An iconic presence in Hong Kong’s fashion scene, Linva Tailor has been perfecting the art of the cheongsam since 1965. One of the city’s most respected traditional tailors, it’s best known for its impeccable craftsmanship – and for dressing Maggie Cheung in some of the unforgettable cheongsams seen in In the Mood for Love.
Run by Mr. and Mrs. Leung, the Cochrane Street atelier specializes in custom-made cheongsams, each cut precisely to the wearer’s body. Clients can choose from Mr. Leung’s carefully curated selection of silks or bring their own fabric, with multiple fittings ensuring every detail is just right. The process is unhurried and deeply considered, with completion typically taking a few weeks to two months.
Step inside and you’ll find yourself surrounded by exquisite cheongsams that speak to a time when the garment was everyday wear in Hong Kong. Timeless, elegant, and rich in history, Linva Fashion is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic, beautifully tailored piece with cinematic pedigree.
Location: 37 Cochrane Street, Central
6. Vivienne Tam
Instagram/ Vivienne Tam
At the more luxury side of the scale is Vivienne Tam, a name that’s been repping modern Chinese fashion on the global stage long before it was cool. After graduating from Hong Kong Polytechnic with a Higher Diploma in Fashion Design, Tam took her vision to New York in the ’90s, where she quickly carved out a distinctive East-meets-West aesthetic.
Her designs boldly draw on Chinese heritage, featuring dragons, oblique plackets, and cheongsam-inspired silhouettes, and remixed with sheer mesh, netting, and flowing nylon that moves like a dream. The look is dreamlike, romantic, and instantly recognizable.
On the couture side, Tam’s Upcycled Modern Chinese Bridal Collection offers bespokeqipaos, marrying sustainability with high-glam, made-to-measure craftsmanship.
Browse the collections here or catch them in-store at multiple locations across Hong Kong.
7. Qipology
Instagram/ Qipology
Qipology proves luxury doesn’t have to break the bank, offering modern qipaos that are stylish, wearable, and affordable, with prices ranging from HK$300 to HK$28,000.
This Hong Kong label offers a range of styles: classic, modern, even a little coquette – perfect for everyday wear, cocktail parties or full-blown bridal moments.
Designed for Hong Kong’s fast-paced (and occasionally sweaty) life, Qipology’s pieces feature lightweight, breathable fabrics that slip effortlessly into your everyday rotation. From cozy knitted qipaos to sporty silhouettes you could actually wear on the tennis court, plus flirty yet understated open-back designs, Qipology covers all bases.
On the bridal front, the brand goes all in with made-to-measure qipaos. Fan favorites include the Lycoris halter lace-up mermaid bridal qipao with its dramatic flared hem, and the all-over sequin halter qipao finished with floral appliqué.
Location: H314, Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central
8. Goods of Desire. (G.O.D)
Facebook/ Goods of Desire. (G.O.D)
For those who like their cheongsams modern, low-maintenance, and a little bit playful, the Hong Kong staple Goods of Desire (G.O.D.), rises to the occasion.
G.O.D puts comfort and practicality first, reworking the qipao’s traditional silhouette into something you can throw on and go.
Expect flattering A-line silhouettes that skim the body, crafted from soft polyester that drapes well, feels good on the skin, and doesn’t crumple. The vibe is effortless – casual enough for daytime yet polished enough to dress up after dark.
Prints lean fun and unfussy, with options like daisy motifs, dogtooth checks, and classic black for the minimalists. Prices sit comfortably in the mid-range, with most pieces hovering around HK$1,300, making them easy investment staples you’ll actually wear.
Browse the full collection on their website or catch them in-store at multiple locations across Hong Kong.
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Maison Schiaparelli has opened its first Salon-Boutique in Asia, introducing a new kind of fashion address at Landmark in Hong Kong.
The appointment-only boutique brings the spirit of the maison’s legendary 21 Place Vendôme salons to the city, moving beyond pop-ups and into a permanent home designed for Schiaparelli’s growing East Asian clientele. More than a store, the boutique unravels like a private apartment for couture — intimate, curated, and quietly theatrical, like the designs it houses.
Photo from Instagram/Halleroed, Jonathan Leijonhufvud
Created in close collaboration with Creative Director Daniel Roseberry and architecture studio Halleroed, the interiors unfold as a luxurious, surrealist boudoir with a series of interconnected rooms. Inside, brushed-metal façades meet sculptural oval motifs, lacquered wood, mirrored surfaces, and marble-patterned floors, while celestial motifs, anatomical references, and bespoke furniture complete the fantasy of an intimate, dreamlike salon.
Photo from Instagram/Halleroed, Jonathan Leijonhufvud
Within the boutique, a reimagined living room doubles as a VIP suite and jewel chamber, where gold mosaic alcoves and a sculptural gold bathtub pay homage to Schiaparelli’s legacy of transforming functional objects into works of art.
The salon presents Maison Schiaparelli’s iconic creations in-store, alongside its Spring-Summer 2026 Ready-to-Wear collection and signature jewelry and bijoux.
Photo from Instagram/Halleroed, Jonathan Leijonhufvud
Maison Schiaparelli is located on the Mezzanine floor, M29 and M29A Prince’s Building, Landmark, 10 Chater Rd, Central, Hong Kong.
Location: Mezzanine floor, M29 and M29A Prince’s Building, Landmark, 10 Chater Rd, Central, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, from 11 AM to 7 PM
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BLACKPINK ’s Lisa is bringing her “ALTER EGO” Asia pop-up store to Hong Kong, with the immersive fan experience set to run from Jan. 20 to Feb. 7, 2026, at AIRSIDE in Kai Tak. Titled “ALTER EGO Asia Pop Up @ Hong Kong,” the event is the store’s second global stop, following its debut in Japan.
Photo from Instagram/LLOUD
This 19-day limited-time pop-up event combines music, fashion, and interactive experiences inspired by Lisa’s “ALTER EGO” album, and will feature a variety of exclusive merchandise, including T-shirts, hoodies, caps, lanterns, and more, and will even have some Hong Kong-exclusive products in store! The store will also have immersive installations and photo-ready spaces that are sure to excite fans and visitors alike at AIRSIDE.
“ALTER EGO” explores Lisa’s five distinct inner personas, each one representing a different side of her creative identity. The Hong Kong pop-up store invites BLINKs and visitors to step into Lisa’s creative universe and experience how she merges multiple styles into one, powerful concept.
At the pop-up, Hong Kong BLINKs will be treated to the first-ever display of Lisa’s outfits that she wore on live stages, music videos, and concerts, along with Lisa’s official light sticks, and so much more!
Merchandise from the "ALTER EGO" Pop Up | Photo from Instagram/Sum Supreme MediaMerchandise from the "ALTER EGO" Pop Up | Photo from Instagram/Sum Supreme Media
Fans who buy merch at the store will also receive a random photocard upon entry, so don’t miss out! You can check out the official merchandise lineup through the event website.
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If you’ve been on the hunt for the viral adidas Originals Tang Jackets all over the city—then you’re in luck, because they’re finally in stores in Hong Kong!
After weeks (and months) of circulating online and selling out in Chinese markets, the highly sought-after adidas Originals Tang Jacket has quietly arrived in select adidas stores in the city— no major announcement, just a (finally) real in-store appearance that streetwear fans have been spotting around the city.
Known for its retro-sport silhouette and cool, elevated streetwear appeal, the Tang Jacket is one of the most talked-about outerwear drops of the year, with its first edition released in celebration of Chinese New Year last year.
Photo from Website/ adidas China
The original design draws inspiration from the traditional satin garments of the Tang Dynasty—hence the nickname—and merges contemporary design with Chinese aesthetics, along with the iconic three-stripe branding of adidas. Initially released exclusively in Greater China, the jacket’s growing global popularity suggests it may soon appear in other markets.
Photo from Website/ adidas ChinaPhoto from Website/ adidas China
Accompanying this new drop, adidas China has also unveiled a Lunar New Year pet collection, extending the festive drop to furbabies with matching accessories and outfits designed in the same spirit.
Much like the original version for adults, the jacket for pets combines traditional Chinese details like the Pankou knots with sporty elements and comes in rich colors like red, yellow, and light blue. The jacket is designed for easy wear, with Velcro closures at the chest to make for easy dressing for the furbabies.
Photo from Website/ adidas ChinaPhoto from Website/ adidas China
The collection also offers more than the jacket, including a red and gold knit top, a graphic T-shirt adorned with a horse motif for the Year of the Horse, a collar, scarf, and a burgundy bag where your pets can travel in style.
The complete collection will be available through the adidas channels and select stores soon, so keep a watchful eye out!
For more information and updates, follow adidas Hong Kong on Facebook and Instagram.
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Hong Kong-based brand GROCERY has collaborated with One Cool Film Production to release limited-edition tees inspired by the record-breaking movie “Back to the Past.”
The action drama starring Louis Koo premiered on New Year’s Eve, bringing much-needed cheer to the Hong Kong box office as it grossed a record-breaking HK$11.54 million on its opening day.
The film is a sequel to the beloved 2001 TVB series “A Step Into the Past,” which follows Hong Siu-lung, a police officer sent back in time to document the coronation of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor. When the experiment goes awry, he lands three years earlier than planned in the Warring States period, forcing him to become entangled with the very people he was meant to observe—setting off a series of adventures as he struggles to return home without altering history.
The film picks up twenty years later, where Hong’s quiet life is disrupted by another 21st-century man on a mission—and he’s once again forced to make sure history isn’t rewritten.
Photo from Facebook/ One Cool Film Production
To celebrate the release of this iconic local film, the GROCERY x Back to the Past tee collection features two designs in both black and white colors that echo the movie’s themes.
One shirt reimagines GROCERY’s classic TEE-001 Invoice, while another draws inspiration from the iconic image of Shaolong in ancient times—updated with a modern T-shirt and finished with the film’s official traditional language logo printed on the back. The remaining designs take a more understated approach, featuring subtle graphics with the GROCERY logo on the front and the movie’s official traditional language logo at the back.
The shirts are priced at HK$420 and are available for pre-order on their official website.
Photo from Instagram/ GROCERYPhoto from Instagram/ GROCERY
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Streetwear fans, one of the GOATs of streetwear has just unveiled its newest store experience.
A BATHING APE® (BAPE®) has officially opened its newest flagship store at 1881 Heritage, Hong Kong, pushing the brand’s retail vision into a whole new territory. The store is BAPE®’s first-ever all-white interior, marrying sharp minimalism with immersive design elements inspired by the city’s iconic neon lights.
Courtesy of BAPE®Courtesy of BAPE®
The BAPE STORE® 1881 HERITAGE reimagines the streetwear shopping experience with a curved LED storefront displaying custom animations inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic city lights. Inside, the store is anchored by a striking fiberglass SHARK SEIJIN sculpture — stone-like in texture and symbolic of BAPE®’s cultural roots — set against a stark white backdrop. LINE CAMO LED lighting on the ceiling changes colour overhead, while glass partitions patterned with BAPE®’s signature motifs add movement and modernity to the space.
The store’s opening coincides with the release of Drop 3 of BAPE®’s FW25 “Performance All Weather” collection, the final chapter of its collaboration with designer Kazuki Kuraishi.
BAPE®’s FW25 “Performance All Weather” collection with designer Kazuki Kuraishi | Courtesy of BAPE®
BAPE® also introduced two BAPE STORE® 1881 HERITAGE exclusive tees. The Black APE HEAD tee features a night-view of the city printed inside the iconic APE HEAD, while the White BABY MILO® tee showcases playful illustrations inspired by iconic Hong Kong landmarks, from ferries to clock towers. These tees are collectible keepsakes designed for BAPE® fans and fans of the city alike.
Black APE HEAD tee | Courtesy of BAPE®White BABY MILO® tee | Courtesy of BAPE®
Beyond retail, BAPE® joined forces with Tokyo’s cult-favourite pancake brand FLIPPER’S to open BAPE CAFÉ!?® at the flagship store. The café blends classic ABC CAMO furnishings with warm wood accents, terrazzo flooring, and MODERNICA x BAPE® shell chairs, creating a lifestyle space where streetwear meets comfort dining.
The menu features BABY MILO®-themed takes on FLIPPER’s signature soufflé pancakes, alongside savoury mains, specialty drinks, and parfait-style ice cream.
The interiors of the cafe | Courtesy of BAPE®
Tiramisu Souffle Pancake | Courtesy of BAPE®Fresh Fruit Souffle Pancake | Courtesy of BAPE®
From now until Jan. 31, 2026, the new BAPE® store presents the “Unwrap Santa Claw’s Surprises” with BABY MILO®, where visitors can immerse themselves in a holiday wonderland.
Highlights include a giant claw machine, featuring a 1.6-metre BABY MILO® in a Year of the Horse design, alongside BE@RBRICK surprises, and photo-ready installations.
Courtesy of BAPE®
The BAPE STORE® and BAPE CAFÉ!?® 1881 HERITAGE is now open, offering a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that merges streetwear culture and lifestyle dining with Hong Kong’s vibrant heritage under one roof.
For more information and updates, visit the BAPE® website and follow their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Location: Shop G08a & G08b, Street Level, 1881 Heritage, 2A Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, from 11 AM to 9 PM, Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays, from 11 AM to 10 PM
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Step back into Hawkins and descend into the Upside Down as the 8 Degree North x Stranger Things pop-up has finally arrived at K11 MUSEA ’s Sunken Plaza! From now until Jan. 11, 2026, visitors will get the chance to explore the immersive experience through a two-level concept filled with exclusive, limited-edition 80s-inspired merch — just in time for the popular Netflix series’ fifth season.
8 Degree North is the first lifestyle brand in Hong Kong to reveal official Stranger Things Season 5 merchandise and is the first brand to globally release a cross-category collection spanning apparel and lifestyle goods. Joining the collab is Bark n Bites, debuting Asia’s first Stranger Things-themed pet apparel, extending the fandom to beloved furry companions.
Courtesy of 8 Degree NorthCourtesy of 8 Degree North
Designed as “two floors, two worlds,” the pop-up’s G/F is fashioned after Hawkins High, complete with 80s retro décor and photo-ready touches, while B1F transforms into the shadowy and eerie Upside Down, offering a darker atmosphere to the series’ parallel dimension.
The apparel collection nods to Hawkins’ spirit with graphic tees, hoodies, flannels, socks, and caps inspired by fandom references, alongside lifestyle pieces such as cushions, plushies, stationery, tote bags, pouches, and everyday accessories. Pet lovers and fur parents can also shop matching pieces for their furchildren, including tees, hoodies, bandanas, and playful Eggo-inspired toys.
Courtesy of 8 Degree NorthCourtesy of 8 Degree NorthCourtesy of 8 Degree NorthCourtesy of 8 Degree North
Adding to the fan experience, those who spend over HK$3,000 can customise their own Stranger Things-ready tote at the on-site workshop on weekends. Meanwhile, those who spend HK$800 or more, or pay HK$68 per session, can capture their moments at the Upside Down photo booth.
From statement pieces for fans to playful outfits for pets, the 8 Degree North x Stranger Things collections are designed to look and feel like they came out of Hawkins.
Courtesy of 8 Degree North, Bark n BitesCourtesy of 8 Degree North, Bark n Bites
Location: Sunken Plaza, K11 MUSEA, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: Daily, from 10:30 AM to 9 PM
8 Degree North x Stranger Things Pop-up K11 MUSEA Thu, December 11 10:30 AM
- 9:00 PM
Step into the world of Hawkins and the Upside Down at the 8 Degree North x Stranger Things Pop-up Store, running until Jan. 11, 2026, at K11 MUSEA.
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We all have that one friend whose outfits and style have more going on than some people’s entire living rooms. Their bags are jingling with charms, their taste is bold and explosive, and every detail of their look is delightfully extra, yet they somehow still look impossibly effortless.
The aesthetics of abundance have officially taken over Gen Z wardrobes. Minimalism? Out.Maximalism – often mistaken for main-character energy – is back in full swing, breathing color and life back into an increasingly dulled-out world.
But before you spiral into gift-giving paralysis this Christmas, we’ve rounded up some joy-sparking picks that match that friend's vibrant, playful energy.
Read on for our curated list of maximalist gems — from bespoke mahjong sets to bold statement accessories — that your impossible-to-shop-for friend will be genuinely excited to unwrap.
1. Bottega Animal Bag Charms
Website/ Bottega
Bottega Veneta’s Holiday Collection proves that it’s all in the details, leaning into a playful, maximalist spirit with its range of bag charms, from plush latticed elephant charms to bunny-shaped coin purses.
One standout is the adorable and versatile dog charm crafted in laminated Intreccio nappa leather and finished with a sleek leather lanyard — an ultra-tactile, joy-sparking accessory that feels both luxurious and whimsical.
Vaisselle is the homeware label you turn to when whimsy meets elegance — especially in vase form. Founded by Léa Zana, a fashion IT girl turned tableware designer, it’s the perfect destination for friends who love eclectic, vintage-inspired treasures. Each piece is handmade in Spain, infused with a touch of French heritage and global antique charm.
Shop online or visit Lane Crawford’s stores across Hong Kong.
3. Tom Ford Sunglasses
Website/ TOM FORD
If you’re ready to splurge a little, Tom Ford’s Bronson sunglasses are the statement pair worth every penny. The Bronson FT1044 stands out with its oversized frames that strike the perfect retro-meets-modern balance, chunky acetate that brings instant attitude, and tinted lenses. It has been spotted on everyone from Rihanna to Khloé Kardashian.
For your Gen Z friend who lives for bold, Y2K glamor, Diesel's Play-Glossy Crossbody Bag is a dream come true. Its asymmetric shape, playfully inspired by gaming controllers, looks like something Elastigirl would rock, with a smooth, bold red color and glossy finish. Crafted from recycled materials and featuring an adjustable strap for effortless crossbody styling, it’s the perfect blend of bold fashion statement and everyday functionality.
Looking for a unique gift for your grandparents or the board game enthusiasts in your life? This artisanal Zodiac-patterned mahjong set by local Hong Kong brand Glocal Mahjong is both stylish and playful, with Chinese zodiac-themed designs that add a sweet personal touch. But the collection doesn’t stop there. Explore matching mahjong-inspired metal “joy” bracelets, paperweights, and even tile-print socks. It’s a treasure trove of gifts for anyone who loves a little game-day glamor.
Marimekko is all about making a statement, with their signature playful florals and distinctive textiles. A piece from their holiday collection is perfect for anyone who loves a cheerful, maximalist touch in their home. Brighten up their space with the Unikko Deep Plate (20.5 cm, HK$360) for a pop of pattern at the table or treat them to the Unikko Bathrobe (HK$2395) for the ultimate cozy indulgence.
And for those who love entertaining, the bedazzling Syksy Long Tumblers (2 pieces), made from mouth-blown glass, will instantly elevate any kitchen bar.
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Hong Kong’s beauty scene is embracing precision care, and Weirdo Beauty, fresh off its seventh anniversary celebrations, is at the forefront with its Glowing Cocktail treatment — a hero in the brand’s upgraded Targeted Skin Solutions lineup.
Courtesy of Weirdo Beauty
Designed for those battling pigmentation, dullness, or uneven tone, Glowing Cocktail is a customized skin management plan powered by AI diagnostics and advanced technology.
The journey begins with a medical-grade VISIA skin analysis, which measures both surface and sub-surface conditions in detail. This includes mapping melanin clusters, hormonal pigmentation, redness distribution, inflammation zones, sebum and pore status, acne bacteria trends, collagen loss, wrinkle depth, scar patterns, and even simulating how your skin may age in five to seven years.
Once the root causes are identified, Weirdo Beauty creates a personalized treatment schedule. The Glowing Cocktail plan offers access to a full suite of technologies, such as Dr. Laser, Bubble 360 Hydro Light, Hollywood Laser, Carbon Laser, 3D Rainbow Light, Ice Bomb infusion, and localized options like CO2 Laser, Golden Laser, and Capri Blue Ray.
Courtesy of Weirdo Beauty
Advanced boosters like Plasma + Sono, Bubble Peel, and SMTS Baby Skin, plus injectable enhancements (Belotero Revive, Teosyal R1, Rejuran Black) and TCM-inspired facial acupuncture, are selected based on your unique skin needs. This ensures comprehensive improvement without overburdening the skin, keeping it healthy and stable throughout the process.
This multi-layered approach targets both surface and deep pigmentation using dual wavelengths (532nm for superficial spots, 1064nm for deeper issues), ensuring results that last beyond the glow. Recommended as a series of six to ten sessions spaced three weeks apart, Glowing Cocktail is ideal for tackling freckles, sun damage, and post-acne marks — while remaining low on downtime. Makeup can be applied immediately after, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.
Courtesy of Weirdo Beauty
Beyond in-salon treatments, Weirdo Beauty extends its care philosophy to home skincare through its Odriem product line that is vegan, cruelty-free, and designed to complement professional treatments for lasting results. For example, the newly launched Solaris SPF 40 Serum offers tone-correcting, barrier-enhancing sun protection with titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and soothing botanicals, while the Star Aura Cleansing Balm melts away impurities with a luxurious, skin-nourishing formula.
Part of Weirdo Beauty’s philosophy of “Stay Weird. Be Forward.”, the Glowing Cocktail treatment blends Western science with Traditional Chinese Medicine principles for holistic care. Meanwhile, the brand offers other signature plans like the Full Pure Plan for sensitive skin and the Bridal Plan for pre-event perfection.
For a limited time in November, Glowing Cocktail is available at a trial price for HK$780 (original HK$1,680). Book your treatment now via their website or WhatsApp (+852) 3001 5823.
For more information, including the before-and-after reference photos, follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
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At this year’s TEDxTinHau Women 2025, themed “Reframe,” audiences will be invited to see the world—and themselves—through fresh lenses.
Now in its ninth year, Hong Kong’s longest-standing TEDx event dedicated to women continues to spotlight trailblazers who challenge convention and ignite dialogue on how we can adapt, thrive, and redefine our perspectives. Among the eight speakers taking the stage on Nov. 12, 2025, is Katie Oropallo, an accomplished hair and makeup artist whose craft goes far beyond aesthetics.
With over 15 years of experience transforming characters for stage and screen, from London’s West End productions to Netflix sets, Katie has mastered the art of storytelling through wigs and makeup. Her expertise in period wig styling reveals not only an admiration for history but also a deep understanding of how appearance shapes identity. As a lecturer at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA), Katie channels her passion into empowering the next generation of artists, while also using her skills to support those navigating hair loss and self-image challenges.
Speaking with The Beat Asia, Katie opened up about how her years in theatre have shaped her love for wigs and makeup, revealing how these art forms transcend beauty to become expressions of identity and empowerment. She also shared what she hopes attendees of TEDxTinHau Women 2025 will take away from her talk.
Hi Katie! What initially drew you to the world of wigs and makeup artistry?
I actually wanted to be a nurse at first! But when that path didn’t work out, I trained as a hair and makeup artist with the goal of helping burn victims.
Becoming a hair and makeup artist allowed me to be creative while using my skills to empower people. It’s never been about vanity for me. I was incredibly lucky—my very first job was at the London Palladium, and from that moment on, I never left the world of theatre. I spent 15 amazing years in that space. It was the perfect career for my twenties; far better than any office job!
And you’ve also worked in film! Does your approach differ when creating looks for live performance versus the camera?
Absolutely—there’s quite a big difference between wigs, hair, and makeup for theatre versus TV and film.
Makeup for theatre is much heavier than everyday makeup because stage lighting tends to wash everything out. We use specific techniques and tricks to make features pop under those lights. Timing is also crucial in theatre. You have to work fast, often with more performers than there are hair and makeup artists.
Wigs are different, too. In film, we use high-definition lace and everything is designed to look completely natural on camera. But in theatre, things are much more exaggerated because the audience is viewing from a distance. It’s all about creating impact from afar.
Photo courtesy of Katie Oropallo
That sounds amazing! You’ve also done quite a few period wigs throughout your career. What do you love most about recreating historical hairstyles?
The history of wigs is something I totally geek out about! They’ve been around since ancient Egypt, and there’s just so much to explore. I honestly think I’d make a great wig historian.
Recreating period hairstyles is incredibly satisfying. People used to spend so much time crafting these elaborate looks, and I love bringing that artistry back to life. Styling a wig for a few hours, music playing, just getting lost in the process—that’s my happy place. And collaborating with the costume team to complete the overall look? That’s the cherry on top. I absolutely love it!
Wigs and makeup have the power to completely transform a person’s physical appearance. How do you balance authenticity with creativity?
It really depends on the designer’s vision! But for me, the balance often comes down to the techniques used to achieve the final look. Wig making and styling is such a traditional, artisan craft—it’s inherently rooted in authenticity. Even when we’re pushing creative boundaries, the foundation is always built on traditional techniques. That’s what makes it so special: you can innovate while still honoring the craft’s rich history.
Even when we’re doing something wild or modern, the techniques are rooted in tradition. So you get to be creative, but you’re still honoring the history behind it. That’s what makes it fun!
Photo courtesy of Katie OropalloPhoto courtesy of Katie Oropallo
Has working across different countries and industries influenced your perspective on beauty, identity, and storytelling through hair?
Every place I’ve worked has its own approach when it comes to hair, such as what’s considered beautiful, how styles reflect identity, and the stories people want to tell. It made me realize that hair isn’t just about looks—it’s about culture, history, and self-expression. I’ve learned to be more open-minded and creative, and to really listen to what people want their hair to say about them.
It reminds us of how it’s used in performance art forms like drag, too! What are your thoughts on their role in that space?
Yes! WIGS GIVE PEOPLE FREEDOM! They are used as an extension of self-expression. Just watch “Ru Paul’s Drag Race!”
Beyond the stage and on camera, you’ve also supported individuals dealing with hair loss. How has that experience shaped the way you view the emotional and psychological power of hair?
Most of my job is fun and creative, but working with people going through hair loss was a real shift. It hit me hard. Meeting people who’ve lost their hair and feel powerless about it is heartbreaking. You really can’t imagine how tough that is until you see it up close.
I’ve had clients who stopped leaving the house because of bald patches. It affects their confidence, their identity, and even their relationships.
I have discovered that hair isn’t just about style—it’s emotional, it’s psychological, it’s deeply personal. Helping someone feel like themselves again through a wig or styling isn’t just a job, it’s a privilege.
And this is central to your “Reframe” talk on Nov. 12. What do you want audiences to take away from your upcoming talk?
I want people to know that there’s always a way forward—no matter what you’re facing. Whether it’s hair loss or something else that affects how you see yourself, there are solutions, and there are people out there who understand and want to help. You don’t have to stop living your best life just because something changes about your appearance.
And I really hope the talk makes people pause before they judge someone based on how they look. We’re so quick to judge based on appearances, but there’s always more going on beneath the surface. I want people to walk away feeling like transformation isn’t about hiding flaws—it’s about owning your story. Whether it’s through wigs, makeup, or just showing up as yourself, confidence comes from feeling seen and accepted.
Beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all, and transformation isn’t always about vanity—it’s often about healing, confidence, and reclaiming your identity. If I can help shift that perspective even a little, I’ll be happy.
Photo courtesy of Katie Oropallo
You’re also a lecturer at The Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts. How do you inspire your students to see beyond technique and understand the storytelling power of wigs and makeup?
I always encourage them to have fun with it! I teach them the core techniques, of course. But what excites me most is seeing how each student takes those skills and makes them their own. Everyone has a different creative voice, and I want them to feel confident exploring that. As long as they reach the desired outcome, it’s their own journey about how they get there.
I remind them that wigs and makeup aren’t just about making someone look good—they’re about telling a story. A hairstyle or the position and shape of an eyebrow can say so much about a character’s journey, their mood, and their past. I push them to think about the “why” behind every choice.
I also like to teach them about teamwork and looking out for others. Theatre is ALL team and not putting your ego first. The job is long hours and hard work sometimes, but we are lucky to have the creative industry.
I just want the students to laugh at work every day like I used to! It is important for creatives to know where they fit in and can have a successful career.
That’s awesome! So, what’s next for you? Do you have any upcoming projects you’re looking forward to?
I’ll definitely continue teaching at HKAPA. I love working with the students there, and my job is so varied, I am never bored, and we create and develop ALL the time!
I’d really like to set up a platform in Hong Kong for people dealing with hair loss. A space where they can access free information, support, and feel less alone. I’m planning to start a blog too, sharing reviews and tips about the wig shops here, just to make things easier for anyone navigating that world.
And honestly, my ultimate dream? To become a wig historian. I’m not joking! I’m obsessed with the history of wigs and would love to dive even deeper into that world one day.
Photo from TED/Website
The TEDxTinHau Women 2025 returns on Nov. 12 and will feature talk segments from KatieOropallo, Jacqueline Chak, Inga Conti-Jerpe, Shulin Ho and Emily Kusunoki, Uzma Naveed, and Dr. Shirla Sum. You can learn more about the speakers here.
Tickets are priced at HK$600 and are available here.
TEDxTinHau Women 2025 Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre Wed, November 12 1:00 PM
- 7:00 PM
TEDxTinHau Women 2025 returns on November 12 at Xiqu Centre, showcasing eight dynamic speakers under the theme "Reframe", exploring fresh perspectives on resilience, identity, design, and innovation.
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