Even with temperatures reaching what feels like a new low in Hong Kong, there's no need for your mood to follow suit. As difficult as it is to get out of bed in the dark, fashion is a good way to brighten your day right from the off. So, be practical and have some fun with a colourful overcoat that will keep you warm without sacrificing style.
Jessica (right), for one, is a welcome sight among the hordes miserably huddling from the wind in their sombre winter coats. Dressed in a firecracker red coat, she instantly stands out from the crowd. I particularly like how her coat is accented with silver discs, giving it a 60s mod touch reminiscent of Courreges. I'm also head-over-heels in love with her illustrated Prada purse, which accents her outfit perfectly. Unfortunately, owning such a pricey bag is nothing more than a dream for most of us.
Recreating her outfit is something one can aspire to without paying a fortune. The stores have started to whittle down their winter selections but there are great mid-season items that will keep the cold out yet still be worn when the weather starts to warm up.
Uniqlo has a great selection of waterproof, zip-up parkas that are stylishly designed with a slim-fitting elastic waistband and a tunic-style length. For only HK$299 each, look for colours such as bright red, electric blue, white and navy blue. At a price like that, you can snap up one of each and not break the bank. The key to wearing such pieces is to layer. For colder days, bundle up with thin knits underneath. On warmer days, a skinny tank or tee will suffice. It looks especially good if you wear something slightly longer inside so the hem peeks out from under the parka.
Colourful macintosh coats are also a good way to add a brightly coloured overcoat to your wardrobe and are excellent choices for wet weather. Check out French Connection for pieces in colours such mustard and purple.
Although she ran away before I could get her name, the girl in the purple coat (left) has a look that is fun and yet easy to replicate. She has paired a coat from Salad (Shop 7A, LCX, Ocean Terminal, TST, tel: 2375 7890) with a printed tee, a denim mini, a scarf, knee-high socks and boots. She looks fun and young and it all works together.
