The Dictator

Friends tell me Sorel is the only way to go for snow boots, but I haven’t seen any of its shops here. I need to try them on around my big calves so going online is not an option. Any ideas?
Furry Feet, Tai Tam

The Dictator rules: Um, well, there’s Sorel. The Canadian brand that’s all the rage with yummy mummies is sold at Columbia (HK$2,299 to HK$3,599; Times Square, Causeway Bay, tel: 2506 0830), which also makes more utilitarian winter boots (HK$1,599 to HK$1,799). Times Square is actually a great one-stop shop for this, and the timing is right, what with the sales on. Timberland has a few similar in water-resistant styles (HK$2,290; Times Square, tel: 2506 3808). Aigle’s elegant selection comes in black, brown and even purple with fur and shearling (HK$1,350 to HK$3,480; Times Square, tel: 2506 2338). Koolaburra does stylish, furtrimmed or lined tall boots (HK$2,290; Times Square, tel: 2506 3082). Geox has a few city boots with sheepskin linings (HK$2,390; Times Square, tel: 2506 3688). For sportier options, stop by: Pro Cam- Fis, Marathon Sports and Catalog. Fashionistas might prefer Moncler’s suede wedge ankle boots with a fur or sheepskin lining (about HK$6,200; Gateway Arcade, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2175 4555); or Bally’s Puss in Bootslength suede version (HK$8,390; IFC Mall, Central, tel: 3586 2899). Consider waiting to buy them at your destination. After you land, you’ll be able to gauge your needs and the local style (some resorts would laugh your furry fashion off the mountain), saving face, time and luggage space. The ski bums who work in those shops can usually offer better advice than those of us who think Hong Kong winters are gelid.

What happened to the excellent cashmere outlet near Southorn Playground in Wan Chai? Gutted to find it’s gone and I don’t want to pay “real shop” prices!
Cashed Out, Bowen Road

The Dictator: Listen, if you want real cashmere, you’re going to have to pay real prices. I’ve witnessed too many witless tourists snapping up what they thought was cashmere.
By definition, cashmere is made from specific types of goat wool and spun into different weights and qualities. Often, it’s mixed with other fibres such as silk or wool, a tactic that should be, but isn’t always, labelled. Do your research before you head into the uncharted waters of the outlets. The one you mentioned moved years ago, but has since disappeared and disconnected the telephone. (Anyone?) There is a great array of colours and styles at cashmere specialist Fable (HK$2,190 to HK$2,990; 1/F, Melbourne Plaza, 33 Queen’s Road Central, tel: 2530 5148). While you’re at it, check out: Dorfit (1/F, 10 Wellington Street, Central, tel: 2501 0018; www.dorfit.com.hk); Pearls & Cashmere (Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Central, tel: 2525 6771; www.bypac.com); and Nuan Cashmere (www.nuancashmere.com).

Got a question for The Dictator? E-mail her with your name, or alias, and address at: dictator@scmp.com