On style, she rules

I've heard that flat lace-up shoes for men are 'in' now for women? Who makes them? I'm worried they look too masculine. Tips?

Shoe Shy, Shek O

The Dictator rules: Then don't buy them. That's my tip. The difference between being stylish and being a fashion victim is wearing what works for you. It is possible, though, to have a lot of fun with this trend by juxtaposing masculine and feminine elements. So instead of dressing like a man (put away that trouser suit immediately), pair your oxfords with a pretty, short dress. They also look great with jeans but be sure to wear something distinctly girly on top, such as a ruffled tank. A tiny percentage of the population can probably pull off androgynous styling and still look sexy but don't risk it. (Look at how many flowers Frida Kahlo used to frame her face with to compensate for the moustache and monobrow.) If you like shoes with over-the-top embellishments, try Miu Miu for a pair with all-over glitter (HK$4,150; Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 2918 4616); and Christian Louboutins with metallic studs (HK$12,000; 7 On Lan Street, Central, tel: 2118 0016). Chloe has modified its version with diamante-topped bows (HK$7,410; The Mandarin Oriental, Central, tel: 2865 2833). Did you know Church's made shoes for women, too? It's the go-to source for beautifully crafted, classic brogues (HK$3,600 and up; Pacific Place, tel: 2918 1091). Or try the buttery soft, less structured lace-ups by Lanvin (HK$4,300; IFC Mall, Central, tel: 2234 7323) and Comme des Gar?ons (HK$5,200; 10 Ice House Street, Central, tel: 2869 5906). If you're uneasy about spending that much, find cheaper interpretations at DKNY (HK$859; Elements, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, tel: 2196 8300) and Pedder Red (HK$855; 64 Wellington Street, Central, tel: 2118 3712). You might notice that we omitted those oxford/booties/high-heel mongrels. It was intentional.

I'm a huge fan of Paula Dorf's cool make-up tricks and cosmetics but I haven't been able to find the brand in Hong Kong. I especially love its Sweep Away Clean-Up Stick. Is there anywhere I can buy it here?

Swept Away, Central

The Dictator: A 'clean-up stick' - really? Wouldn't it be easier to learn how to do your make-up properly the first time around? How many extra products does a woman need? Granted, though, Paula Dorf does offer a fantastic range of cosmetics, brushes and tools. We're pleased to report we found many of the products at Beauty Heroes (22/F, Eton Building, 288 Des Voeux Road, Central, tel: 2850 5278). That includes your precious Clean-Up Stick (HK$96), which acts like a make-up eraser and conditions the skin at the same time, and many items from the Paula's Trick Products line. It also carries Paula Dorf brushes (HK$80 to HK$480) and cosmetics for brows (HK$152 and up), cheeks (HK$160), eyes (HK$160), face (HK$340 and up) and lips (HK$152 and up). Try shopping online, where you can find some great discounts.