I would love to buy into the sheer trend, but I wonder if I could do it without looking like I’m trying too hard. I don’t like to wear anything too revealing, so I wouldn’t be comfortable showing body parts.
Sheer Delight, Deep Water Bay
The Dictator rules: Lady, if you’re going to force yourself into clothes that will so obviously make you uncomfortable, then you’re definitely trying too hard. Has it not dawned on you that you don’t have to wear every trend you see in magazines? The point of sheer pieces introduced for springsummer is to show skin without showing too much. So, if you’re going to do it, go for lighter colours to avoid seedy nightclub connotations. One exception would be Elizabeth and James, whose mix of see-through, opaque and mesh fabrics (HK$2,800 to HK$3,500; Lane Crawford, IFC Mall, Central, tel: 2118 2288) and sheer plaid organza separates (HK$2,900 to HK$4,500) look slick, not sleazy. You’ll probably find it easiest to wear a dress such as Philosophy’s panelled design (HK$7,500; Harvey Nichols, The Landmark, Central, tel: 3695 3388), with big solid blocks connected by narrower sheer lines. We’re always inspired by the imaginative designs of Pushbutton, including its sheer tops and full skirt (HK$4,600 to HK$7,700; Harvey Nichols) featuring embroidered horizontal stripes in a nautical rope motif. To feel at ease in this kind of skirt, you’ll need a half petticoat, but you sound like you probably already have a few. For the more daring, full-coverage undies – and no thongs, we beg you. Of course, fashionable ladies who lunch will tell you that the only way to go is Chloé, whose selection includes embroidered organza blouses (HK$12,500 to HK$25,410; Prince’s Building, Central, tel: 2807 1101). But, please, be conscious of what you wear underneath. A pretty, plain white bra will be OK, or a silk camisole if you must.
I know lace is so last year but I’d love some lacy espadrilles or flats. I’ve seen them but I don’t know where to buy them. Help?
Foot Lace, Happy Valley
The Dictator: I’ll help but on one condition: swear first that you have no intention of dressing up like a living china doll in head-to-toe frills. Balance the girliness with elegant, tailored pieces. Dolce & Gabbana has done some pretty allblack lacy espadrilles (HK$3,100; Alexandra House, Central, tel: 2877 5558). Valentino has them, too, but in pretty pastels, metallic or camouflage macramé (HK$5,100; Lee Gardens One, Causeway Bay, tel: 2907 2332). Rebeccaminkoff.com is offering free international delivery on orders of US$300 or more, so you can buy both the yellow and the coral Genny lace espas in one go (US$175 per pair). Tory Burch has several lace flat designs (HK$1,580 to HK$2,380; Times Square, Causeway Bay, tel: 3421 1229). There are also the coloured crochet fabric slip-ons by Toms, (HK$650; Lab Concept, Queensway Plaza, Admiralty, tel: 2118 3599), which donates to a child in need every time you buy a pair.
