Who started it? Ni-Chi is the brainchild of fashion designer Bonita Cheung Kit-man and socialite Reina Chau. Hong Kong-born Cheung says she was inspired by her mother, a dress designer in Australia. After completing a degree in business studies, in Canada, Cheung returned to Hong Kong in 1993 and found work at a local bridalwear company. She launched her own line of couture eveningwear in July 1998 at Hong Kong Fashion Week. She has participated in other fashion weeks around the world including New York, South Africa and Dubai.
Chau is an avid art and fashion collector, known for her extensive collection of vintage pieces. This season the two have combined forces to create Ni-Chi, a capsule collection of modern separates.
Why we love it: The brand takes a timeless yet modern approach to fashion. The pieces are meant to be worn every day but are sophisticated and polished, allowing them to be dressed up or down. The palette is mainly neutral (black and beige) with items including coats, dresses and capes. Silhouettes are vintage-inspired with high-fashion details: a sleek black coat has python shoulder patches, while a classic wool shift dress comes with long sleeves and frou-frou lace cuffs.
What we'd pick: The sleek wool zip up jacket with origami-style folds at the waist (above; HK$7,600) or the Audrey Hepburn-inspired wool jersey dress (left; HK$7,200) with a sheer overlay trimmed in lace.
Where can I get it? The collection is exclusively available at Harvey Nichols, The Landmark, Central, tel: 3695 3388.