The White Queen, Hatton Road
No. Here's why. The wool of cashmere goats isn't white. It's more of a cream to beige tone. And it's not advisable to bleach it as that can weaken and even destroy the fibre. Think about it. Have you ever ruined the softness of something cashmere simply by washing it? You get the idea. Loro Piana is one of the best, and most indulgent, sources of cashmere - and if you'll accept off-white, you'll have a plethora of beautiful cardigans and pull-overs to choose from (HK$9,800 to HK$15,200; Chater House, Central, tel: 2868 9623). Pearls & Cashmere (Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road, Central, tel: 2525 6771) has well-priced basics in cashmere and cashmere blends. However, there, too, the cardigans (HK$1,500 and up) come in a slightly creamy white that will not match your pure white resort wear. Shanghai Tang might be your best bet, with short- and long-sleeved cardigans in 100 per cent or silk-blend cashmere with cute buttons in jadeite or enamel (HK$2,350 and up; 1 Duddell Street, Central, tel: 2525 7333). Unless you're summering in the southern hemisphere, a cosy cotton cardigan should be more than enough coverage. Otherwise, I thoroughly sanction a tonal story, mixing white, cream and even light beige together. Done right, it can be tres chic.
Tie Me Up, Happy Valley
