Babe boom
Local designer Dennis Pong is working his voodoo magic again. The man behind Babe, the must-have accessories line featured regularly in American Vogue and Bazaar, was inspired by Haiti for his spring/summer collection. The items are just what the witch doctor ordered: structured handbags combining rigid raffia, luxurious satin, matte sequins and a sense of humour. To be launched this week at Lane Crawford, the bags cost from $1,000 to $2,000.
Flower power
The year is still young, but Flower by Kenzo gets our vote as the best fragrance launch so far. Aimed at the 'city woman who looks to nature for inspiration and renewal', the rich perfume smells of Parma violet, Bulgarian rose, vanilla and white musk, and comes in an architectural, curved-glass bottle. Eau de toilette costs from $240 for 30ml to $430 for 100ml from the Kenzo counter in Seibu, Pacific Place, but if you stop by today or tomorrow, you'll get a free sample-sized bottle.
Moving out
Here's an update on the outlet situation: Joyce has closed its Causeway Bay and Marina Square locations, relocating both back to the company's headquarters in Horizon Plaza (21/F, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau). Spring/summer stock is already on the floor, with further 10 per cent reductions at the beginning of March and May. A recent visit yielded a so-kitsch-it's-cool Lulu Guinness straw and canvas bag. On the same floor is a new ad:hoc outlet, with shoes, accessories, streetwear and some secondhand pieces from seasons past. Call 2522-7173 for information and opening hours. Space, the outlet stocking old Prada, Miu Miu and Helmut Lang, is still at Marina Square, South Horizons, Ap Lei Chau (tel: 2814-9576).
