The Dictator: on style, she rules

The Dictator rules: Maybe they’re intended to ward off paparazzi and people like you who want to intrude into their private lives. Ever thought of that? As far as I know, no, evil-eye jewellery is not a new trend. To be clear, the various amulets you’ll find are meant to protect against the curse of the evil eye. This is no ordinary fashion accessory, my friend. But, I suppose, if people irreverently or cluelessly adorn themselves with crosses, then evil-eye jewellery is no different. If I were you, I’d make this an excuse to visit Turkey, where you’ll find lots of souvenirs they call nazar, as well as glass beads called boncuk. Hong Kongbased Plukka has several creative interpretations, including the diamond Star Eye knuckle ring (HK$2,485; www.plukka.com), diamond and sapphire Isis necklace (HK$3,686), diamond Eyesight necklace (HK$9,118) and diamond Ocula ring (HK$10,476). New York’s Hysteric mixes the motif with the associated hamsa hand symbol in a bangle of gold vermeil and Swarovski crystals (US$128; www.hystericco.com). You might not immediately think of Links of London for “ethnic” jewellery, but you should, especially for its beautiful Evil Eye blue topaz and sapphire bracelet (HK$1,850; www.linksoflondon.com). Or visit The Ninth Muse for the brilliant Evil Eye Roung Ring (HK$799; www.the9thmuse.com).

The Dictator: Um, I give up. What is the deal with those cape tops? Have you been hanging out at a superhero conference? Perhaps you mean the new Balenciaga cape top in bold pink crepe (HK$7,800) or black cady (HK$8,400), both of which come with draping at the back and an over-the-shoulder overlay. The deal on them is they are awesome and you should definitely get one. Many designers did similar designs last season, with the cape effect on the sleeves and in the overall cut. The good news is they’ll be on sale; the bad news is you might not find them in your size any more. Maison Martin Margiela did amazing cape-effect shirts (HK$2,890 to HK$3,999). Valentino had a fabulous one in crisp white poplin with a longer, A-line silhouette (HK$6,600). A pretty, summery and much more affordable version is the ingenious white cotton Jessie sleeveless shirt with a detachable mini cape at Evan-Evina (A$27.50/HK$200; www.evan-evina.com). Givenchy’s cleverly designed knit top features a tank layered with a long-sleeved capelet in different textures of black silk/cotton mix (HK$14,200). Or maybe you’re thinking of one of those angel-sleeved, loose hanging tops, such as Zara’s viscose cape blouses (HK$399). As always, when you’re adding volume up top, it’ll probably look best to keep it sleek and simple down below. Consider pairing these tops with narrow trousers or a pencil skirt.