Mr. Know- It-All, Week of September 2, 2011

Dear Mr. Know-It-All,
Do you have the contact number of a shop that buys used clothes for HK$1/item? The shop used to advertise in this magazine but I cannot find it anymore. They are located in Aberdeen. — Green Girl

Doing a bit of spring cleaning, eh? As far as I know, and I know everything, the shop in Aberdeen might not be around anymore. However, there are some places that might take used clothes depending on their quality–-well really, it would all depend on if your clothes are crap or not. The Second Hand Shop (Shop 17-18, 1/F, Prudential Centre, 216-228 Nathan Rd., Jordan, 2368-7990) will either pay cash or offer a consignment or trade-in deal if they want to accept your used clothes. Select 18 (G/F, Grandview Garden, 18 Bridges St., Central, 9127-3657) might also take them off you, but they have to pass muster with the shop owner Thomas first. This is Hong Kong,
so the only other places that will take second-hand goods off your hands for a price only accept high-end designer threads. But if you’re as green as you say, maybe you should just donate your used clothes to charity. I’m sure Oxfam, Caritas or Crossroads would be extremely grateful for your generosity. Plus, it’ll leave you feeling much better about yourself, rather than finagling a measly $1 for every piece of clothing you need to toss to make more room in your wardrobe.

Dear Mr. Know-It-All,
Where can I get some good quality—but not grossly expensive—hosiery in Hong Kong? Usually I stock up at Jardine’s Bazaar, but they always tear and get runs after one or two wears. I wouldn’t mind paying a bit more for better quality. Can you help me? — Tights Fanatic

Um… isn’t it too hot and sticky to be wearing pantyhose? Perhaps you’re just freakishly organized and want to prepare for winter super early. Or you’re an office lady. Anyway, like you, the owners of Sassy Leg (www.sassyleg.com) were frustrated about the lack of quality options in Hong Kong and thus created an online hosiery store that ships name-brand hosiery from around the world Hong Kong. They deliver to your doorstep for free and aim to dispatch orders within 24 hours. Alternatively you can take a trip to H&M (68 Queen’s Rd. Central, 2110-9546) or Marks and Spencer (Shop 617-621, Times Square, 1 Matheson St., Causeway Bay, 2923-7972), which also offer a good selection. If all else fails, I guess you’ll just have to wear pants.