1. Hint of sandal Salvatore Ferragamo was so fixated on finding a shoe that fitted perfectly that he studied not only human anatomy but also chemical engineering and mathematics at university in Los Angeles. When his Hollywood Boot Shop opened in 1923, he couldn't keep pace with orders from the movie stars, and since American labour was not up to his standards, he opened a workshop in Florence, Italy, filled with skilled craftsmen. From then on, the Ferragamo legend unfolded, and there's even a museum in the city should you find yourself passing through. Today, the label's sleek, pointy shoes, such as the Rubye white heel (right; HK$7,300), with elegant sandal-like leather ankle wraparound, are hitting style high notes. If you're feeling the chill, opt for the black patent knee-high Ross boots (left; HK$13,950), which are lit up with a hint of metallic detail. Salvatore Ferragamo is in Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 2845 2718.
2. Baubling up Since Miuccia Prada started Miu Miu in 1993, the subsidiary has developed an independent identity characterised by a provocative, luxurious style. Other than its audacious ready-to-wear, there is the jewellery collection, which currently features exaggerated baubles full of bright colours and sparkles - fitting for the festive season. We love the daring necklace (pictured; HK$11,750), layered with candy-coloured stones. The elegant drop earring (top right; HK$3,950), slightly subtler in colour, would work well with a black evening gown, while the ballerina-shaped brooch (top left; HK$3,300) will make any winter coat glisten. Miu Miu is in The Landmark, Central, tel: 2523 7833.
3. O Solomeo As one of the first to introduce bold colours to cashmere, Brunello Cucinelli merits thanks for the colourful winter pullovers we see today. The Italian label has been producing luxurious clothes in the tucked-away hamlet of Solomeo, Italy for more than 30 years. This winter collection contains striking shapes and cuts, and combines different materials to create clothes with an added dimension - but as always with Brunello Cucinelli, understated elegance is key. The black chiffon evening gown (right; HK$22,995), with a jewel-encrusted neckpiece, hangs perfectly, while the cashmere fur gilet (left; HK$46,995) is just divine. The bag is not available in Hong Kong. Brunello Cucinelli is in New World Tower, Central, tel: 2866 6783.
