On style, she rules
I saw a very 1950s pin-up-girl-style bikini with a high waist whose style I like. I think it was by Marc Jacobs but can't see it in the shop. Can you help me find one please?
Elegantly Waisted, Central
The Dictator rules: Actually, the term 'pin-up girl' and the style you mention are both more appropriately associated with the 1940s, but we'll let it slide this time. We approve of your choice of high-waisted bikini this season, but you're too late for the Marc by Marc Jacobs striped version you covet. It's sold out all over Hong Kong. When last we checked, it was still available online through retailers such as Nordstrom.com (above; top and bottom, HK$711 each). However, this style does not suit every body. In general, the big block of fabric puts the spotlight on big hips. You'll have to decide whether you want to maximise or minimise that part of your body. And, before you try to camouflage a big belly, let us be very clear; this style will only accentuate extra rolls and flab around the middle. Still unsure? Before shopping online, check what is available in Hong Kong. Diane von Furstenberg's fabulous, striped Maryelle bikini (top and bottom, HK$1,100 each; The Landmark, Central, tel: 2522 8782) might be the perfect alternative for you. We also like the fire-engine red ruched bikini bottom by agnes b this season (HK$690; IFC Mall, Central, tel: 2805 0678). Juicy Couture has a few sweet pink options, too (HK$1,190; IFC Mall, tel: 3586 2017), with matching tops for HK$990. Other brands working the retro swimwear for summer include Chloe and Lanvin.
I still haven't found 'the one' when it comes to perfumes, but my friend was wearing something lovely by the old company Penhaligon's the other day. She only told me the brand and that she'd bought it in London. I wonder if I could go, sniff and find it in Hong Kong?
On the Scent, South Side
The Dictator: We've said it before, and we'll say it again: there's something highly suspicious about a woman who doesn't have a signature scent. She clearly doesn't know herself and can't be trusted. She might do something like appropriate her friend's signature fragrance. (Ring any bells?) What's next? Dressing like her? Copying her haircut? Since you'll find it eventually, we'll begrudgingly reveal the Hong Kong source for old London perfumer Penhaligon's is Lane Crawford (IFC Mall, tel: 2118 7777; and Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 2118 3668). Although tucked into a small section of the larger beauty department, you'll find quite a comprehensive selection of Penhaligon's scents, including Lily of the Valley, Violetta, Blenheim Bouquet (HK$955 to HK$1,670). We're suckers for beautiful packaging, especially the vintage kind Penhaligon's uses, harking back to its earliest days, in the 1870s. Before you do anything, watch the 1992 film Single White Female as a cautionary tale. Then, find a fragrance that suits you, please.
