While most international fashion brands look at grand shopping malls for their foothold in Hong Kong, Sambag has chosen Sheung Wan's hip Po Hing Fong neighbourhood as the location for its first overseas boutique. The Australian brand famous for its colourful ballerina pumps and cashmere hoodies, seen on A-listers like Elle Macpherson and Nicole Kidman, hosted a store opening last Thursday. The brand's founder and designer, Sam Wagner, flew in especially for the event. "I love the energy of this neighbourhood. This whole area feels like a hidden gem," Wagner said. "My first store in Sydney was in an offbeat neighbourhood like this and it worked so well." The mother of two teenager daughters said it was tough caring for her family and fashion career, but she enjoyed the challenge. "I do try to have quality time when I'm on holiday," she said. The Aussie has been holidaying in Hong Kong over the past few years and decided the city was the right place for her first overseas boutique. "My goal is to create garments and accessories that women really want to wear - a casual urban uniform for women with style," she said. The opening was attended by Wagner's friends, including Annabelle Bond, daughter of former HSBC chairman John Bond, and the Hong Kong Cancer Fund's Sally Lo. Guests savoured sashimi canapés, mini frittatas and bespoke cupcakes while Aussie DJ Eve Speciall provided the music. Send tips and invitations to cityseen@scmp.com
