I saw an ad for Pacific Place Swire Properties with a model wearing this gorgeous ruffled-collar dress. I'm not sure of the colour, but it's a mini dress (above the knee-ish). Where can I find something similar (if not the actual item itself) that is within my ideal propensity to consume?
Ruffled Feathers, Wan Chai
The Dictator rules: 'Ideal propensity to consume?' What are you talking about? Tip No 1: don't use big words unless you understand what they mean. Tip No 2: above-the-knee on an Amazonian model might not be 'mini' on you. Tip No 3: unless the ad is specifically selling that product, most campaigns are shot ages in advance. It's a futile exercise to try to copy the look, because it'll be out of the stores before you even see it. Occasionally, you'll be able to track it down on discount past-season websites, such as bluefly.com, yoox.com or theoutnet.com. In this case, the lightning-quick marketing team told us the clothing was actually custom-made. So there's your answer. Nevertheless, we have kindly sourced a few alternatives for you (based on your paltry description). Kate Spade is your best bet, with a variety of cotton or silk, solid or print dresses made with high, ruffled collars (HK$3,600 to HK$3,700; Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 2116 4998). Actually, you'll get more bang for your buck with the white cotton blouse of the same style (HK$2,500), which can be paired with formal skirts, jeans and so on. For a bright, summery colour, check out the Betsi dress in turquoise or red by Ted Baker (HK$2,000; Pacific Place, tel: 2918 9609). Or go for the more subdued but still very feminine tones by Rebecca Taylor (HK$2,880; Seibu, Pacific Place, tel: 2971 3888). Other brands to try: Tibi, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Halston and Tory Burch.
I just love, love, love Alaia clothes, but I can't justify the cost. Don't shout at me, but is there any way to find similar clothes for less?
Alaia Out of Love, Central
The Dictator: It doesn't matter what volume I use to answer your question; the response will be the same. When it comes to the exquisite designs of Tunisian-born master Azzedine Alaia, there can be only one. You know I love a bargain, but what defines his pieces is exactly what makes them more expensive, namely quality of material, extraordinary craftsmanship and ingenious cuts. That translates to a starting price of about HK$9,000 for separates (Lane Crawford, IFC Mall, Central, tel: 2118 7777). At the very top of the range, you could even fork out HK$85,000 for a skirt made from rare, exotic skin. Recently, though, I was delighted and surprised to see that one contemporary label, Elizabeth and James (yes, the brand by the Olsen twins), has been influenced by Alaia. Have a look at its Odila twill bell skirt, with a leather waistband featuring the signature Alaia cutout detailing (HK$5,400; Lane Crawford). Invigorated by the discovery, I swept through a few more stores. There's only one more suggestion, but it's a fantastic (and reasonably priced), wide, perforated suede wraparound belt in beige or black for only HK$880 at Kookai (Pacific Place, tel: 2921 2082). It's that, or to the aforementioned discount online retailers with you.