iCandy
Denim may not be an ideal summer fabric, especially compared with linen or cotton, but that doesn't mean you can't wear it during the hotter months. Think outside the box and swap your jeans for a vest to get your denim fix.
Amy (below) is rocking the trend in her bleached denim vest over a green-and-white striped tank top. Her cropped vest is the perfect match for her extra-long tee and makes her appear slim, despite the horizontal stripes. Her skinny jeans are made from a similar fabric to her vest, which wouldn't normally work, but surprisingly she manages to pull it off. Her black cut-out sandals with studded heels add a rock-chick vibe to her outfit.
If you are looking for a more laid-back approach, Long (top) sets a good example. She has put a lightweight denim vest over a basic white T-shirt, finishing the look with a long skirt decorated with wooden buttons. She has also thrown a cardigan over her shoulders, adding an extra layer that will keep her warm in Hong Kong's freezing malls. I also love her lace-up loafers - they look super comfy and match her casual vibe.
The denim vest goes hand in hand with this season's 80s trend, but it's also a piece that you can wear year round. Experiment with unusual combinations - for example, wear a studded denim racer back vest with a sexy summer dress, such as a floral printed chiffon number.
You can also pair it with an embroidered miniskirt and wear a straw hat for a boho-chic look. Or, if you're feeling lazy, throw a bleached denim vest over a simple T-shirt with a high-waisted skirt to create a cool urban look.
Don't forget to add some chunky metallic accessories.
If you're looking for a vest that won't break the bank, WAC (Shop 118, Laforet, 24-26 East Point Road, Causeway Bay, tel: 3622 1438) has various cropped styles at bargain prices.
Quiksilver (Shop A, G/F and M/F, Honest Motors Building, 9-11 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, tel: 2895 5948) has a cool cropped vest with round vintage metal studs on the collar.
If you can splurge, I saw a well-tailored, denim vest with brass buttons at D&G ( I.T, Shop 252, Level 2, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, tel: 2918 0667), that will flatter most body types.
