CONSIDERING THAT ALAIN Mikli has built an empire on vision, literally and metaphorically, it's somewhat ironic that he's struggling to keep his eyes open.
Having just arrived from Europe to launch his latest collection, PACT, the French eyewear designer can be forgiven for his lack of energy. Not that it lasted long.
During a party at the exclusive Bel Air compound at Cyberport last Monday to celebrate the launch, the 50-year-old designer got his second wind, and a second chance to pester actress Carina Lau Ka-ling, one of the A-list members of a star-studded guest list that included Rosamund Kwan Chi-lam and Rosemary Vandenbroucke.
Two years ago at another product launch in Beijing, Lau reportedly ticked off Mikli when his hands wandered over her waist. By all accounts, Lau worked wonders for his jet lag this time around too, much to the delight of the local press.
Mikli's presence is undeniable. Tall and burly with a grey goatee beard and contrasting dark ponytail, he's quick to charm everyone in his orbit, from the waitress to his own assistant. But he hates being interviewed. It makes him uncomfortable, he says, arms folded defensively across his chest - surprising, really, for someone who should be used to it by now, and who is famously forward with the ladies.
Once he warms up, he projects a wicked sense of mischief, even from behind half-closed eyes and bold black and white acetate spectacles perched atop a rather generous nez.
