I’m a first-time godfather and a bit lost. My mother says I received silver cufflinks from my godfather for my christening, which we then had monogrammed when I was older. Where in Hong Kong can I buy some that won’t be priced like expensive jewellery stores?
Mr Dandy: But how can you know that’s what kids will be wearing when he’s older? I have a friend who started his godfather career by giving the kid iconic CDs on special occasions. Now he’ll always be known as the cool music guy. Nevertheless, Hong Kong still has great mom and pop-style jewellery stores that are totally affordable. Tong Kee (61 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, tel: 2527 1216) sells a bunch of silver cufflinks. I found a plain oval pair with a swivel-bar design that would be perfect for engraving, for only HK$1,200. Or try Saturn Essentials (1/F, 36 Pottinger Street, Central, tel: 2537 9335).
Mr Dapper: I would carefully consider the recipient’s parents. Are they going through the ceremony because of religious beliefs, family pressure or a respect of (secular) tradition? Church-goers might appreciate a religious symbol, such as a cross. Furthermore, silver purchases of any ilk should be made cautiously. Differences in sterling silver, silver plate and stainless steel may be imperceptible to the naked eye. Naturally, the 925 mark is something to look for. Now to cufflinks. Links of London carries well-priced silver accessories, including engraveable designs (HK$1,400). You may be wrong to dismiss jewellers such as Tiffany & Co, where silver cufflinks cost only a trifle more, at HK$2,000 and up.
A friend gave me a paisley scarf at my birthday soiree. We realised we’ve never known where the design comes from, and we couldn’t find a definitive answer on our phones before the drinks arrived. Over to you.
Mr Dapper: Paisley is variously described as a teardrop, kidney bean, mango tree, Persian pickle, Welsh pear and half of the yinyang symbol. Based on such varied references, its origin could be India, the Middle East or China. Early evidence suggests it’s a Persian design, from around 200AD, or possibly has a Zoroastrian link. First introduced to Europe in the 17th century, mills were established in the 19th century to meet demand for the exotic print shawls. The most famous production came from the Scottish town of Paisley.
Mr Dandy: Isn’t it enough to know you love (or hate) a pattern? If you like patterns, then paisley is a great way to tie together colours in one outfit. And a scarf, pocket square or bandana is an excellent place to start. Etro has put it on not only scarves (HK$4,600) and pocket squares (HK$1,000) but also ties (HK$2,000), socks (HK$600), shirts (HK$2,900 and up), pique polos (HK$3,100), trousers (HK$7,500) and jackets (HK$20,500). Dunhill’s showing quite a lot of it this season, too, on ties and bow-ties (HK$1,450 each) and pocket squares in silk or wool (HK$850). I think of it as more of a winter look, but Tommy Bahama’s swayed me with a short-sleeved summer paisley shirt (HK$1,290; 60 Johnston Road, tel: 3543 0383).
