On style, she rules
A friend posted pictures of Lady Gaga wearing the most beautiful tops. They had sleeves that puff out at the end. They were elegant, not her usual crazy gear. I really have looked, Dictator, but I can't find the tops or the right words to make the store staff know what I mean. I even printed out the photos for them, but they just stand there talking about it, looking at me like I'm the biggest idiot in the world, then say they don't have what I'm looking for. Help?
Off the Cuff, South Side
The Dictator rules: In defence of the sales staff you described, you could be the world's biggest idiot. However, I will concede that you have a good eye, because the bell-sleeved pieces you described are unbelievably chic and beautifully constructed. The type of cut is referred to as a lantern sleeve. It's too bad the pieces you seek are from the spring-summer 2012 collection of London-based designer Roksanda Ilincic, because the brand isn't sold in Hong Kong. But don't despair. You can find the bell-sleeve mini-trend in singular pieces by other designers. Lanvin, for example, has done a turtleneck jumper with bell cuffs (HK$15,500; Gateway Arcade, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2175 3282). You might like the army green pullover by Emilio Pucci, which features lace flaring from the cuffs (HK$8,010; Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 2918 4698). Alexander McQueen's fine wool cardigan comes in cream or black with layered ruffles giving the bell effect at the end of the sleeves (HK$15,500; Lane Crawford, IFC Mall, Central, tel: 2118 7777). Also take a look at the white shirt with bell sleeves by Emporio Armani (HK$1,850; Chater House, Central, tel: 2532 7777). If I would have to choose just one, it would be the drop dead gorgeous stretch jersey and satin top with grosgrain details around its bell sleeves and waist by Marc Jacobs (HK$9,390; The Landmark, Central, tel: 2523 3324).
I saw a street fashion photo of a fabulous-looking lady called Catherine Baba wearing these super tassel earrings. Where can I get some?
Hanging On, The Peak
The Dictator: I've never met you, but I'm pretty sure you're no Catherine Baba. The fabulous Parisian stylist has been muse not only to The Sartorialist and his copycats, but also several top designers. Baba, a fashion darling (pronounced with a drawl) oozes unmistakable retro chic and eccentricity with vintage YSL, the occasional turban and her signature pile of bangles, not to mention her bicycle. For mere mortals like you, though, I'd advise restraint. By all means, wear tassel earrings, but let them be the focus of that look. We love the Gatsby tassel earrings in green agate at Jan Logan (HK$6,850; IFC Mall, tel: 2918 4212). David Yurman has created a more modern interpretation with tassel earrings made entirely of thin metal chains in black graphite with 18-carat yellow gold (HK$21,100: IFC Mall, tel: 2295 0005) or sterling silver (HK$10,300), accented with tiny pav?diamonds at the top. Of course, you don't have to empty the coffers to get the look. Accessorize has made cheap but wearable thread belly dancer tassel earrings in festive fuchsia for only HK$170 (IFC Mall, tel: 3101 1170). or slightly shorter Oriental tassel earrings in teal blue thread with a matching faceted bead at the top for HK$140. H&M has the least expensive of all, available in black, cream or pink for a measly HK$49.90 (68 Queen's Road Central, tel: 2110 9546).
