A user's guide to fashion

Reading Time:2 minutes

Published: 12:00am, 19 May 2002

Bib break

Size queens, so lacking in options in Hong Kong, might find what they're looking for in the Kingshill catalogue. The brainchild of British entre-preneur Patricia Davidson, the online mail-order service, which guarantees delivery to Hong Kong within 14 days for $283, specialises in designer clothing in real-woman sizes ranging from a British 12 to a 20. Choose from a flattering selection of ready-to-wear, swim-suits and accessories from labels such as Tommy Hilfiger, Caractere, Synonyme de Georges Rech, Marina Rinaldi, Paul Costelloe, Jean Muir and Amanda Wakeley. Davidson also plans to bring a show to Hong Kong next season. For more information, or to request a copy of the catalogue, call 44 1494 866-003. Items can be ordered online at www.kingshill direct.com.

Jewel purpose

Pierre Hardy, the cult shoe designer whose signature collection and work for brands such as Christian Dior and Hermes inspire irrational devotion from foot fetishists around the world, has begun making jewellery. The Frenchman has been hired by Hermes to design its first collection of chic yet sporty necklaces, bracelets, rings and pendants, many of which make reference to the house's heritage. For more information, call Hermes Greater China on 2919-5770.

Watch this space

Started by Swiss entrepreneur Edouard Bovet in Canton in 1822, Bovet timepieces dominated China's burgeoning luxury-watch market for nearly a century with their signature, split-pearl design. Almost two centuries later the company's timepieces are a favourite of collectors, who snap up its production of fewer than 2,000 watches a year. The Fleurier dress watch, named after Bovet's hometown in Switzerland, and the Sportster automatic chronograph (left) have made their way back to China from the brand's new headquarters in Geneva, and are available from Lane Crawford, Pacific Place, Admiralty. For more information call 2880-4488.