Fashion no-nos?

I have an aversion towards ribbons. I think they're OK if you're making friends with Walt Disney characters.

What do you always wear?

Perfume - the original fragrance by Carolina Herrera. I've used it since I was a teenager. They don't sell it in Hong Kong, so I have to ship it over from the US. It has a very different and elaborate smell - spices mixed with floral tones.

Favourite shoe designer?

I love heels. So whoever designs the highest and most comfortable stilettos is a big hit with me.

Must-have accessory?

Wash Away Your Sins lip balm. It gives a fresh and healthy look and adds a light touch of colour.

Handbag pick for this season?

Handmade bags in canvas or leather. I love artisan work and handicrafts in natural materials.

Most cherished fashion item?

A necklace given to me by a tribal chief in Vanuatu.

Style leader?

Tarzan, Johnny Depp, Madonna, Princess Stephanie of Monaco. They've all influenced my style and wardrobe choices.

Who'd design your Oscars dress?

Me. It would be absolutely sexy, but in a classical way, with ethnic touches. Long, preferably in a soft fabric, but no shiny elements or glittery stuff.

Most expensive fashion item?

Pieces of jewellery that I collected from my trips to the South Pacific. They're unique and made with natural materials that you can find only in places such as the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea or Rarotonga (Cook Islands). They're mostly made with shells, stones and seeds.

Your fashion style?

Contemporary ethnic, but I'm normally very flexible. I wear whatever suits my mood and the task at hand.

Boho or ladylike?

Boho during the day and more ladylike at night.

Flats or stilettos?

Stilettos. I can climb trees in eight-inch heels if I have to.

Fashion disaster?

Shoulder pads with elastic belt. There, shoot me. I've admitted it.

Favourite shopping venue overseas?

I used to live in New York and I loved the small boutiques in Greenwich Village. They're funky and there's such an eclectic mixture of merchandise.

Favourite local designer?

The young designers from the Academy for Performing Arts.

Must-have item for spring?

A buckle from the VSA [Virgin, Saints & Angels] Collection and oil-absorbing lotion for my face. The humidity in Hong Kong is a nightmare for oily skin.

Favourite spring trend?

Natural light fabrics such as linen and loose cotton.

Swimwear favourites?

The Touche 2006 collection. Touche is a Colombian brand.

Summer style tips?

Forget the cowboy boots. They look ridiculous in our humid summer. Save the Brokeback Mountain look for the boys.