Club Bâtard: Exclusive Private Members’ Club Opens in Hong Kong

Let’s be honest – most of us haven’t a clue how to properly treat our scalps, we just pray to the hair gods that our half-hearted shampoo routine counts as "self-care" and hope for the best. 

So when Svenson Hong Kong offered me a real deep clean with their revitalizing hair spa treatment, I practically jumped at the chance to rescue my roots. 

With spring approaching, I was on a mission to rescue my hair from the dryness left by the winter months, and Svenson’s unique approach to scalp care seemed like the perfect solution, while also providing a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong.

Trichology, the study and science behind hair and scalp health, is making a comeback in the ever-shifting beauty world, and I was keen to find out if it was more than a buzzword. Stepping into the pristine clinic assured me that I was in the hands of certified professionals, with numerous prestigious certificates and awards lining their every shelf.

The treatment began with a personalized consultation, where a trichologist used a digital microscope to assess the condition of my scalp, and proceeded to project these images onto a computer monitor. Watching a blown up visual of my scalp through a microscopic lens was an eye-opening experience. To my dismay, there were dry patches, lingering dandruff and even some gunk lodged deep in the crevices of my scalp.

To address these problem areas, the trichologist recommended the 90-minute Onsen Aroma Relaxation Hair Spa (HK$1,388 for a trial, original price is HK$2,080, and package price is HK$11,288 for 10 sessions). She advised this would help to fight off the "3 Ds" – dirt, dandruff, and dimethicone (a common ingredient in hair products which can cause buildup and even exacerbate hair loss).

Next, I was led to a serene and spacious treatment room, where the spa experience kicked off with a warm sleeping mask placed over my eyes—the perfect way to start unwinding, as well as a selection of aromatic essential oils for the waterfall-style hair spa.

The treatment included a thorough scalp cleanse using the Intensive Purifying Treatment, followed by an Infrared Electric Scalp Massage that left me feeling deeply invigorated. Then came a vigorous shampoo and head massage, expertly applied with just the right amount of pressure. The experience culminated in the refreshing sensation of a moisturizing waterfall-style hair spa, which gently cascaded over my scalp. 

Next came the Placenta Restorative Treatment, designed to boost blood circulation and promote hair growth. While the name may sound a little intimidating, it was surprisingly soothing and left my scalp feeling revitalized.

To complete the indulgence, I enjoyed a soothing herbal-ball chest and shoulder massage. They then used a device on my scalp that looked straight out of a sci-fi movie – called a 12 Laser Comb – which helps stimulate hair follicle growth.

The session wrapped up with a thorough scalp analysis to assess the before-and-after effects of the treatment. The difference was striking; the treatment had cast off the stubborn residue and dandruff, and my scalp looked impeccably clean and refreshed. Every trace of buildup had been gently but effectively eliminated, leaving the scalp not just cleansed but truly rejuvenated. 

If I were to go again, Svenson's professional team recommended the Rescue Dandruff Control Treatment (Original Price at HK$600) and if short on time, the 25-minute Onsen Aroma Relaxation Hair Spa Express, which includes an all-rounded ritual of scalp deep cleansing, hair follicle stimulation and even hair cuticle and hair cell nourishment. The trial price for the Express Spa is HK$538, the original price is HK$1,080, and the package price HK$6,888 for 10 sessions.

Additionally, if you're seeking more scientifically leaning treatments, Svenson offers the cutting-edge INDIBA + NMN Cellular Regeneration Treatment, which combines RF (radio frequency) technology with NMN cell regeneration therapy to target blood circulation and encourage thicker, stronger hair. This package is available at the trial price of HK$1,888 (originally HK$8,320 per session) for two sessions.

Final Verdict 

The results were immediate and lasting. My scalp felt incredibly clean, almost tingling, and the freshness lingered without any irritation.

While it’s not a one-time fix for dry hair or hair loss (consistency is key), my hair certainly benefited from the treatment. It felt softer and had a natural bounce thanks to the nourishing products used.

While Svenson’s treatments are on the pricier side, the soothing luxurious experience from start to finish, coupled with the informative professional consultations before and after the spa, makes it a worthwhile experience.  

If you’re looking to doze off and be pampered, this may not be the spa treatment for you. However, if you want a comprehensive, science-based treatment with advanced technologies focused on your hair needs, including scalp and hair follicle health, Svenson will give you the ultimate care. 

For more information or to book at treatment, visit Svenson on their website, or check out their Instagram and Facebook.

Location: Svenson Hong Kong, Room 2401-02, Chubb Tower, Windsor House, 311 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay (click here for other locations)

Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, is introducing new menus for The Grand Dining Room in the line’s newest 1,200 guest ship, Allura, which will launch in July 2025. These reimagined menus present more than 270 brand-new recipes across all three meal services, set apart by refined flavors, modern techniques, and elegant presentations. 

The open-seating Grand Dining Room aboard each line is the heart of the Oceania Cruises culinary experience. Some of their newest features include a Signature Eggs Benedict section for the breakfast menu, a lunch menu inspired by chic French bistro dishes, and a reimagining of beloved classics for the dinner menu.

A Breakfast Tradition, Perfected

The Breakfast in The Grand Dining Room has been renewed and revitalized with eloquent presentations, balanced proportions, and more than 30 new recipes. The Signature Eggs Benedict Section takes center stage in the menu, offering a number of variations to the classic breakfast fave, such as the Eggs Benedict Florentine, layered with creamed spinach, crispy bacon, and a velvety hollandaise; and Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, featuring a smoked salmon beneath the buttery sauce. 

The morning menu also offers a creative variety of rotating selections, including a zucchini waffle with smoked salmon and yogurt sauce, breakfast sliders with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon on brioche, and the Mexican burrito filled with scrambled eggs, sausage, guacamole, and cheddar. 

La Brasserie Lunch Experience

For lunch, The Grand Dining Room transforms into La Brasserie, offering authentic French bistro-inspired dishes. The menu also features a rotating vegetarian main course, an artisanal cheese plate, and a curated charcuterie platter. 

Remarkable dishes include the Blanquette De Veau à L’Ancienne, a veal stew simmered in a creamy sauce with vegetables and fragrant pilar rice, and the traditional Coq Au Vin, featuring a chicken braised in red wine and paired with tagliatelle pasta. 

Classic American favorites are still a mainstay, including the Oceania Cruises signature cheeseburger, made with ground chuck steak, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and onion on a homemade bun, and the French dip sandwich, crafted with thinly sliced roasted striploin and a rich beef jus inside a buttery roll.

An Artful Approach to Dinner

The Grand Dining Room’s dinner menu is refreshed with more than 200 new recipes, blending refined influences from global cuisines with a modern, balanced approach. It includes a section of Chef’s Recommendations, spotlighting dishes hand-selected by Chef Quaretti and his team of Executive Chefs. 

New appetizers include a Scallop Panna Cotta with caviar, delivering a delicate contrast of silkiness and briny depth, and Pâté en Croûte Arlequin paired with a mango chutney mousseline, balancing a rich flavor with a bright, tangy finish. A Sautéed Duck Foie Gras escallop boasts a luxurious depth of flavor and a contrast of sweet and savory, complemented by a rhubarb compote, gingerbread crouton, and hibiscus flower sauce. 

Entrées include a slow-cooked Korean BBQ beef short rib with a deep, umami-rich flavor, complemented by bok choy and pickled vegetables, and a decadent Seafood Vol-Au-Vent, scallops, shrimp, salmon, and black mussels delicately enveloped in puff pastry and paired with a velvety mustard sauce and tender green asparagus. 

The Allura, Oceania Cruises’ Newest Vessel

The Allura is the eighth vessel in the Oceania Cruises’ fleet and is also the line’s second 1,200-guest Allura Class ship. Her sister ship, Vista, launched in May 2023 and was met with great global acclaim.

The Allura boasts one chef for every 10 guests, meaning half of the onboard crew is dedicated to culinary experiences. In addition to the new menus, food and wine pairing experiences are also available for guests, including demonstrations during exclusive Sommelier’s Choice and Cellar Master’s Classic Wine Pairing Luncheons.

For more information on Oceania Cruises and their offerings, visit their website here, or follow their Facebook and Instagram pages. 

Dior adds a sparkle of glitter to the Hong Kong International Airport this holiday season.

The French luxury Maison once again chose the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) for its exclusive Airport Christmas Tree in Asia and a dream-like pop-up store in the duty-free area.

This year, Dior mounted a beautiful 5.2-meter-high Christmas tree at the Central Concourse in HKIA — the only giant holiday tree in Travel Retail Asia-Pacific. The tree was inspired by the opulent legacy of Louis XIV, reflecting the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles with the Royal Sun at its heart. Decorated with Dior’s beauty icons, sparkling gold accents, and crowned with a Dior star, it invites everyone to make a wish and embrace the spirit of giving.

A grand opening took place at the Central Concourse in early December, sharing the magic of a Dior holiday with travelers across the world.

Travelers can capture memorable moments in front of the tree and receive a complimentary photo at The Dior Ball of Dreams pop-up, where they can find iconic Dior products, holiday limited editions, and personalized services. Located at the Departures East Hall, travelers can also enjoy an excellent gifting service, including custom engraving, ribbon selection, and unique greeting cards, making each one a special keepsake.

The Dior Exclusive Airport Christmas Tree and Dior Ball of Dreams were done in partnership with JCDecaux Transport, Airport Authority (AAHK), and The Shilla Duty-Free.

Mr. Alby Tsang, Acting Deputy Director, Commercial, AAHK, expressed his sincere appreciation and gratitude to Dior, The Shilla Duty-Free, and JCDecaux Transport for the overwhelming support in the campaign’s success, “We are delighted to partner with Dior again for The Dior Ball of Dreams campaign at HKIA. The stunning Dior Christmas tree and their glamorous pop-up enlighten the entire airport and spread excitement to travelers around the globe.”

Ms. Shirley Chan, Managing Director for JCDecaux, Transport Hong Kong & Macau, said, “JCDecaux Transport is incredibly proud to work with DIOR again and bring this exceptional campaign to HKIA. This marks the second year that Dior has chosen HKIA for its exclusive Airport Christmas Tree in Asia. As the No. 1 Out of Home (OOH) advertising company in Hong Kong, we will continue to strive for excellence and offer dynamic OOH advertising solutions to the travel retail industry, elevating air passengers’ journeys to the next level.”

The Dior Christmas Tree and The Dior Ball of Dreams pop-up can be seen at the Hong Kong International Airport throughout the holiday season until Jan. 8, 2025.

For more information, visit Dior's website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Marvin Lin is a force of nature in the world of high-end hair care. With over 25 years of hairstyling and hair health care experience, Marvin has styled the tresses of singers, actors, royalty, discreet tycoons, beauty editors, and celebrities, including Eason Chan.

From working behind the chair at fashion weeks, top salons and on commercial productions all over, her talent and over two decades worth of experience transcends borders and industries.

But her real magic lies in her unparalleled focus on hair health. Growing up steeped in the traditions of Chinese medicine, Marvin’s obsession with achieving flawless, healthy hair led her to spend over a decade working on the creation of her own product line.

Collaborating with leading doctors and scientists and even graduating at the top of her class at Harvard Medical School, she’s built a brand that merges the beauty practice of haircare with modern biotechnological techniques.

SHHH Salon is her chic, holistic wellness oasis on Hollywood Road in Sheung Wan. Just a stone’s throw from Man Mo Temple, the salon is easily recognizable by its signature black scissor logo. This celebrity hotspot has attracted big names like Victoria Beckham and Cecilia (Pak Chi) Cheung.

As demand for Marvin’s magic outgrew the salon, she launched OMG+ Anti-Ageing Haircare by SHHH Salon, an elevated version of the original OMG haircare line. luxury haircare range that’s already garnered a slew of accolades, including the coveted VOGUE HK Beauty Award 2024 – Best Luxury Haircare Brand.

OMG+: Science-Backed Haircare That’s Redefining the Game

Launched in October 2023, the OMG+ Premium Anti-Aging Haircare Series takes the already popular OMG line to the next level. Produced in Japan using cutting-edge biotech, these products are infused with 96% naturally derived ingredients, including two kinds of anti-aging plant stem cells and low molecular weight active compounds designed for salon-grade results at home.

The collection features three hero products — OMG+ SCALP, OMG+ GLOSSY, and OMG+ AIRY — each designed to address specific hair needs.

Marvin said the inspiration for the OMG+ product line was born from conversation with her clients, “We want professional-grade products so everyone can have salon-grade treatments at home.”

The idea is to empower people to learn to take good care of their own hair between salon visits. Marvin stressed that the OMG+ system is easy to follow, “ If you want to pair [your tresses] with high heels use Glossy. If you want to grow more hair or have less gray hair use Scalp. On casual days, if you are doing sport or wearing your sneakers — use Airy.”

The products are made from natural ingredients; infused with two types of plant stem cells and importantly, free from parabens, phthalates, PEGs, silicones, mineral oils, fragrances, colorants, and chemical preservatives.

“We use ingredients which are quite rare on the market,” said Marvin. “It’s not just about inspiration — it’s also about responsibility. I’ve worked in the fashion industry for more than 25 years, and my clients constantly need these kinds of solutions. So, I created them."

OMG+ SCALP

This scalp savior deep cleanses, rebalances, and rejuvenates the scalp while fortifying hair roots for optimal growth. Think of it as a detox for your hair, leaving your scalp refreshed and invigorated.

When to Use It: Post-workout, after a long flight, or during those in-between-wash days when your scalp is crying out for some TLC.

“Leave it on the scalp for between 5 to 30 mins, or while you are watching Netflix! Then rinse it off. You will see the difference!” said Marvin.

OMG+ GLOSSY

Perfect for those “diamonds and high heels” kind of nights, this luxurious conditioner restores brittle, damaged hair from within, minimizes frizz, and leaves your locks silky and luminous.

When to Use It: Before a romantic dinner, a gala, or anytime you want to turn heads with glossy, red-carpet-worthy hair.

“If girls have a special occasion and want to look glamorous, we suggest they use Glossy. It’s rejuvenating but with more shine and gloss,” Marvin shared.

OMG+ AIRY

For casual days when sneakers and a hoodie are the vibe, AIRY is your go-to. It revitalizes fine, limp hair, adding volume, hydration, and bounce for that effortlessly chic look.

When to Use It: After yoga, an intense session on the treadmill, or whenever your hair needs a quick lift.

Pro tip: Marvin recommends layering AIRY first for volume, then sealing in the shine with GLOSSY. “We teach clients to be their own professional stylist and to pick the right product for themselves, because no one will take care of that better than themselves,” she said.

KORE: Crowned Best Luxury Anti-Aging Hair Care Brand At Vogue Hong Kong 2024 Beauty Awards

The KORE Regenerative Scalp Toner from the KORE Cellular Haircare Series is Marvin’s pièce de résistance — a next-gen anti-aging treatment that works at the cellular level to rejuvenate hair follicles, improve scalp health, and even reverse gray hair. Free from nasties like parabens, silicones, and fragrances, it’s vegan-friendly and packed with potent ingredients like turmeric plant stem cells and Capixyl.

Throughout her career, Marvin has met numerous clients in their early 30s seeking to stimulate hair growth, driven by concerns of early hair loss. This latest product is the next frontier in scalp care and beyond, tackling a variety of hair and scalp issues by focusing on cellular activity right at the roots.

When to Use It: Marvin recommends applying KORE on the scalp both in the morning and evening and massage until absorbed. However, once the product starts to be effective, she says clients can slow down to use it just once per day, or every other day.

“This product improves the metabolism of skin cells,” Marvin explained. “We’ve seen cases where gray hair returns to its original color.”

KORE Lash & Brow Bio-Revitaliser

Marvin’s innovation and hair care program extends to lashes and brows too. Her KORE Lash & Brow Bio-Revitaliser is a game-changer for fuller, healthier lashes and brows. Using a blend of natural ingredients and cutting-edge compounds like biotinoyl tripeptide-1 and hydrolyzed keratin, this serum strengthens from root to tip, even for those with lash extensions.

When to Use It: Apply a thin layer morning and evening — as easy as brushing your teeth!

“Nowadays, girls love eyelash treatments, but these can damage the lashes. This serum makes them stronger and healthier,” Marvin said.

This brush with glamor does not come cheap. A full-blown styling and hair care treatment at SHHH might be beyond the budget of many of us mere mortals. Salon treatments start at HK$980 and for a full hair care routine or multiple courses of personalized treatment, the sky is the limit.

The OMG+ product line offers the chance to bring a little bit of lavish allure into the home. It's a more financially attainable alternative, but you might still have to steel yourself to fork out HK$1060 for a bottle of shampoo.

Whether you’re aiming for glossy locks, a full head of hair, a rejuvenated scalp, or lush lashes, Marvin’s OMG+ line has something for everyone.

With Christmas just around the corner, go ahead and treat yourself — and your hair — to a little Marvin magic!

Location: SHHH Salon,G/F, 118–120 Hollywood Road Central

For more information, visit SHHH on their website, or Instagram and Facebook.

Kai Tak is getting even fancier, as luxury French fashion label Longchamp has opened its new boutique in the district, bringing its elegant pieces and distinct Parisian flair.

Located at SOGO Kai Tak, Longchamp’s newest boutique concept is a recreation of a Parisian apartment, designed to reflect the brand’s heritage and savoir-faire. The boutique, adorned with accents of vibrant colors and wooden furniture, offers a warm and welcoming vibe to its guests.

Upon entering the boutique, guests will be greeted by a welcome area, decorated with a 1960s walnut table. This area also spotlights this season’s key pieces, displayed on bookshelf-like racks.

The store also displays the latest leather goods and accessories from the brand, juxtaposed with books, decor, and prints to highlight these pieces.

At the heart of the outlet is the lounge, equipped with vintage-style furniture made by French designer Pierre Paulin and Spanish visionary Patricia Urquiola, as well as cozy, colorful rugs. Here, guests can also enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee while admiring the boutique’s fashion pieces.

Founded in 1948 in Paris, Longchamp started out as a leather-sheathed pipe manufacturer and later on expanded into other offerings like handbags, travel accessories, eyewear, shoes, and more. Today, the brand has over 400 stores in 80 countries.

Visit the new Longchamp boutique at The SOGO Kai Tak, open from 10 AM to 11 PM daily.

Location: Longchamp, Shop G-08, Ground Floor, SOGO Kai Tak, Tower I, The Twins, 12 Concorde Road Kai Tak, Hong Kong

Highlighting Asia as a vital business market, auction house Bonhams has opened its newest Asia-Pacific headquarters at the Six Pacific Place in Hong Kong, bringing in a slew of auctions for the autumn season.

With a total space spanning 19,000 square feet across three floors, Bonhams’ new headquarters promises to deliver elevated client experiences with its luxurious premises that are on par with its London, Paris, and New York selling centers. This includes vast galleries and a permanent saleroom, among others.

To commemorate the opening, Bonhams is set to hold an exciting lineup of art and luxury pieces from Nov. 27 to Dec. 3 this year for its inaugural autumn sales. This is headlined by an auction of the Dr. Shing-Yiu Yip Collection of Classic Chinese Furniture, one of the finest private collections of Ming dynasty furniture, on Nov. 27.

Other sales to look forward to include the Exquisite Chinese Art from the Hall of Refined Elegance (Part II) auction on the same day, the Fine Chinese Paintings and Hong Kong Watches sale on Nov. 29, and the Modern & Contemporary Art auction on Dec. 3.

Commenting on the new headquarters' opening, Bonhams’ Managing Director for Asia, Julia Hu, said in a press statement, “We are proud to announce the opening of our new headquarters in Asia, marking a new chapter in our 200-year legacy. This new, upgraded space is a vibrant hub where the passion of collecting comes alive — inspiring treasures, innovative events, and connections with our valued clients.”

Bonhams first arrived in Hong Kong in 2007 and became the first international auction house to open their own dedicated saleroom in the region in 2014.

For more details on Bonhams Hong Kong’s autumn sale, visit their website.

Location: Bonhams Hong Kong HQ, 11/F, Six Pacific Place, 50 Queens Road East, Hong Kong