I’m not adept with an iron, making the mornings a bit of a struggle. Do you know where I can get my hands on one of those flat pressing machines?
Mr Dapper: Hats off to you for ironing anything yourself. To be honest, I gave up years ago and rely on the kind services of my far more talented wife and helper. The trouser press took a bit of digging. I tracked down some excellent options by the renowned Corby of Windsor, but they must be ordered directly from the Hong Kong agent (Klako Group, 10/F, Seapower Industrial Centre, 177 Hoi Bun Road, Kwun Tong, tel: 2345 7555). The rather ingenious device comes in a variety of wood finishes and can be free-standing or mounted to the wall. Prices begin at HK$1,980 for the 4400 model, which features 15-and 30-minute pressing cycles. Upgrades include the 7700 model (HK$2,180), which has temperature control and a selfadjusting function to press knees and turn-up hems.
Mr Dandy: Wait. You have the space for that? I know I don’t! Anyway, dude, it’s all about steam these days, which works on more than trousers. If you pay attention in stores, you’ll notice that’s what they use to straighten out the clothes before they put them on the racks. Just hit any home appliance or department store and you will find a few to choose from. I think the Panasonic Steam Iron is pretty nifty (HK$1,198; Fortress, Times Square, Causeway Bay, tel: 2555 5788). It comes with a stand and an attachment that works like a normal iron. You’ll be surprised by how irons have a come a long way, too. Take a look at the steamgenerating Rolls-Royce of irons, the Philips PerfectCare system (HK$3,988; Fortress). It has “Optimal Temp” technology that apparently adjusts the temperature so you don’t have to fiddle with dials. My latest geeky obsession is the Bosch Home Professional Steam Station (also HK$3,988; Fortress), which comes with cool attachments including a steam gun.
Where can I pick up a pair of my favourite flip-flops, Sanuks, in Hong Kong? The strap on one of my old ones has snapped.
