Think pink, says designer Jill Stuart - with a touch of black

It was pink overload at The Peninsula's Salisbury Room on Friday afternoon when American designer Jill Stuart introduced her line of cosmetics to the city.

The fashion maker, known for her flirty party-girl wear, has decided pink is the new black. From the room colour to the canapes, which included pink pastries and pink tuna sushi, the feminine tone was splashed throughout the launch venue and in her makeup.

'I use hundreds of different pinks, from hot pink to shocking pink to rose pink,' said the designer, who ironically wore black to contrast with the decor. 'I'm not wearing pink today, but I think [the colour] is very soft, feminine and pretty. But mixing up colours is always fun. You should try pink and black, it's really cute.'

In town for only two days for interviews and meetings, Stuart admitted she hadn't had much opportunity to see the city. 'Yesterday, I was doing interviews all day, and today I'm here and then going to visit my shop later. But I love Hong Kong. It's one of the most fascinating cities. I'm looking forward to coming back soon.'

Like every US citizen, she's still buzzing about the election results. However, being in the fashion industry, she perceives the new first couple from a sartorial perspective. 'Being stylish is to have your own individual style and sensibility and be confident and smart; most importantly, be true to yourself. The Obama couple have a great sense of style.'