Behind the label: Cote

Barely a few years old, Cote is a collaboration between Italian designers Francesco Ferrari and Tomaso Anfossi, who met at Milan's prestigious Istituto Marangoni fashion school. Still in their 20s, Ferrari and Tomaso have had a fast-track ride to success, their feminine designs and use of geometric patterns finding favour with women looking for traditionally made clothes with fashion-forward cred.

Ferrari and Anfossi cite Miuccia Prada and Gianni Versace as big influences, so their fashion compass is pointing in the right direction. More importantly, Cote wears its heritage on its wonderfully constructed sleeves. Cote clothes are produced in the designers' home country, employing the wealth of experience and quality that the "Made In Italy" tag tends to bring with it.

The buzz around Cote has been all about the balance between fabric, form and femininity. We love this block colour suit (right; jacket HK$4,980 and trousers HK$2,580) and the brand does great accessories, too, such as this striking leather clutch (below; HK$3,380).