Madeleine Thompson

Who started it? Hong Kong-born designer Madeleine Thompson has spent most of her life going back and forth between here and London. After completing a law degree at Britain's Durham University she embarked on a career in fashion as a buyer for local department stores such as Lane Crawford and Seibu. In 2005, she launched a jewellery label that was stocked in stores such as Harvey Nichols. In 2008, she launched a ready-to-wear line featuring luxurious cashmere separates. Her first design, a cashmere beanie, was a hit with style icons including models Agyness Deyn and Lily Donaldson and actress Sienna Miller. Thompson's eponymous line now includes scarves, shawls, cardigans and mini- and maxi-dresses. She also designs collections for American fashion chain Anthropologie.

Why we love it: Thompson's line combines elegance and comfort at affordable prices, making cashmere more accessible to the masses. The look is loose and slouchy - her signature style is the A-line dress, but chic and devoid of fussy embellishments. Her spring collection features a palette of neutrals such as tan, khaki, black and beige on items such as a button-down sleeveless maxi-dress and a modern version of the grandpa vest.

What we'd pick: for a stylish summer look, we like the striped maxi-dress (right; HK$3,100) with buttons down the front. The cream mini-dress (above right; HK$2,900) is great for both day and eveningwear.