HAPPENINGS: It's not just the ladies who take their stilettos, boots and wedges seriously. Judging from the impressive turnout of male guests at Jimmy Choo's store opening in IFC Mall - its sixth in town - gentlemen are also going gaga for its loafers, Oxfords and dress shoes.

Especially well-heeled A-listers mingled at the cocktail party in the store. We spotted veteran actor Simon Yam kicking a flamboyant pair of neon pink loafers, while the ever-stylish lyricist Wyman Wong opted for a full-on ensemble of Briton dandy, finished with straw boater and umbrella as props. Wong's outfit blended in perfectly with the gala dinner that followed at The Box restaurant nearby. The venue was transformed into a gentlemen's club perked up with poker tables and slot machines. The brand's CEO, Pierre Denis, flew in for the special event and beamed mega-watt smiles as he posed for photos with local beauties including actress Shu Qi.

I’m so going to buy the limited-edition men’s Sloane slippers for my boyfriend so I can raid his shoe closet later. He wouldn’t mind a size or two smaller, no?

CHIC CHAT with Pierre Denis

Do you travel to this part of the world often?
I lived in Hong Kong from 1999 to 2006. I’m also now travelling more often to Hong Kong because the city is really my priority and so is China.

Tell us about the perks of being CEO of Jimmy Choo?
Tonight I’m wearing shoes with a unique design. Before I was getting fancy clothes [working with John Galliano] and now I’m definitely having fancy shoes. 

Will we see more shops in Hong Kong and on the mainland?
Yes you will. We’ll be opening five more.

Do you feel the men’s market is growing?
Yes. In fact, this October, we’ll be opening a standalone boutique for men’s footwear in Shanghai. I think male customers nowadays care more about their total look. Apart from the suit they are wearing, shoes and watches also make a difference.