This new monitoring system is the cat’s meow

It’s not always easy to say goodbye to that special furry friend when taking off on holiday or heading to the office for another day of toil. For many, pets are an extension of the family – a fact recognised by Petkit, the maker of “smart” gadgets for pets. The company recently unveiled the Mate Remote Monitor, allowing owners to check up on their four-legged companions from afar.

Equipped with a dual microphone and speaker, pet owners can check in at any time. The device rotates in a full circle, allowing the user to see their pets in 720p HD format. They can also take photos or record videos via the accompanying Petkit mobile application. One of the more creative features is a remote-controlled laser point, ensuring that playtime is never more than a click away. As any cat owner knows, chasing that elusive red dot is a favourite pastime among feisty felines.

The Mate Remote Monitor received an international Red Dot Design Award last year, a distinction bestowed upon only the most top-notch of products. The monitor comes in three styles: the Pro version, which has an aluminum alloy body, and two Edition versions in playful, colourful prints featuring cartoon cats or dogs.

www.petkit.com

Focal releases the world’s most extravagant pair of headphones

Music lovers no longer need worry that their plastic headphones might be ruining their aesthetic. From French hi-fi specialist Focal comes the world’s most extravagant pair of headphones – the Utopia by Tournaire.

Easily the priciest pair of ear cans currently on the market, the US$120,000 (HK$930,000) Utopia has been crafted in conjunction with master jewellers Maison Tournaire. The bespoke design, created by the father-son team of Philippe and Mathieu Tournaire, is based on the mark of the Trilogy, symbolising the three stages of life: past, present and future. These uber-cool earpieces feature 18-carat gold mounted with six carats worth of diamonds, all meticulously hand-crafted by the Tournaire jewellers.

While the price tag is nothing to scoff at, discerning listeners will not only be treating themselves to an exquisite pair of headphones but will also be contributing to a good cause. A portion of the profits from the sales of the Utopia earpieces will go to the P’tit Louis Association, dedicated to saving eight-year-old Louis Biscini who suffers from rare spinal muscular dystrophy. The Utopia by Tournaire headphones were released September 2016 along with two other new Focal headphones – the Listen and the high-end Elear.

For a city break with a tropical twist, try a two-stop trip to Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi

With gingham tablecloths and modest seating, Jalan Alor Street certainly isn’t the Ritz. But then, when the fare along Kuala Lumpur’s biggest foodie road is this good, it scarcely matters. From a generous helping of sizzling dark noodles and roast pork, to succulent chicken satay with fragrant steamed rice followed by a decadent scoop of creamy coconut ice-cream, the hungry traveller can savour superb cuisine, al fresco style. With friends enjoying a post-work beer, jostling business types and large families sharing a get-together, the atmosphere is homely, inclusive and electric.

Of course, the Malaysian capital has a lot more going for it than just its sensational street food. Kuala Lumpur (or KL as it’s affectionately known by the locals) is one of those hard to define east-meets-west metropolises, where the visitor is just as likely to see global companies’ logos adorning the side of glossy skyscrapers as they are to see a street market full of Malay textiles. KL is home to some one-and-a-half million people, but this thriving city – which began life as a modest tin mining settlement – is also interspersed with unexpected oases of tranquillity.

One such place is Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park, also known as The Lake Gardens. Taking a stroll along the park’s winding paths is first on the agenda – but go early, before the midday heat and humidity kicks in.

The 170-hectare green space is, unsurprisingly, one of KL’s most visited attractions. Despite the sky-high cityscape that acts as a backdrop for the verdant foliage, the vastness of the park – which includes a boating lake, waterways, a bird and butterfly aviary, plus manicured gardens featuring native flora – makes the bustle of the city seem like a distant dream. When the humidity begins to take its toll, the adjacent Islamic Arts Museum, home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of Muslim art, and the nearby National Museum, rich in national treasures, beckon. For those staying longer, a visit to the region’s Batu Caves – a stunning limestone natural wonder – is well-worth a day trip, too.

After a wander, it’s time to snap a selfie in front of the most iconic architectural wonder in town – the soaring 88-storey steel Petronas Towers. The world’s tallest twin towers – and the emblematic heart of the city – offer a journey to the not-for-the-vertiginous “sky bridge” viewing platform, which provides unparalleled views. Although a must-see, this does involve a detour to the towers at 8am to secure one of the 960 tickets released each day.

“The 88-storey Petronas Towers offer a journey to the not-for-the-vertiginous sky bridge viewing platform”

Next on the list is an exploration of Kuala Lumpur’s abundance of shopping treats. A top choice for souvenir hunters is Central Market, which offers a unique wealth of treasures, from Asian artefacts and Batik art, to handcrafted jewellery and clothing.

Laden with gifts, head back to the serenity of the St Regis Hotel, a plush five-star pad in Sentral district. Indulging in a fortifying afternoon tea in the Drawing Room – a colonial-era tradition that’s stood the test of time in modern Malaysia – or a cocktail at the glittering Astor bar and restuarant are both highly recommended.

Once you have immersed yourself thoroughly in the Malaysian capital, it’s time to journey north – in short, it’s time to hit the beach.

Malaysia is home to over 850 islands. On the Malay Peninsula in particular, both the east and west coasts offer a wealth of choice for travellers. To travel north – and experience a quaint touch of old Malaya – a leisurely locomotive journey is on the cards. Boarding a train at Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station, the five-hour journey to Alor Satar offers a chance to see an alternative perspective of the country. The scenery changes, evolving from a world of metropolitan modernity to one of tea plantations, rice paddies and swaying bamboo. Snapshots of rural life flash past – a man collecting mangoes, a young girl leading a mule. Stations pass, one after another: Ipoh, Kamuting, Butterworth.

All too soon it’s time to disembark.

Hailing a taxi and speeding towards Kedah ferry terminal, the final leg of the journey begins. Climbing aboard, the aquamarine expanse of the Andaman Sea stretches out ahead and the first breath-taking glimpse of Pulau Langkawi peaks on the horizon.

“White sand and mangrove-fringed shores contrast with the turquoise of the calm waters”

Langkawi is known as “The Jewel of Kedah” so it comes as no surprise that arriving on this 480-square kilometre island is like stepping into a postcard. Most visitors head to Pentai Cenang – and with good reason. Here, white sand and mangrove-fringed shores contrast with the turquoise of the calm waters. Other, smaller island neighbours rise out of the sea like jagged green giants, while parasailers glide across the scene. Relaxing with a refreshing tipple of choice on a beach shack bean-bag immediately appeals, but then so do the upmarket fusion bistros next door, the kind that demands bare-foot dining à deux.

Kicking back on the beach is a great way to spend the afternoon, but after a day of travelling, the lure of the salubrious Bon Ton & Temple Tree Resort and Spa is hard to resist. Colonial-style rooms sit alongside Malay stilt-inspired villas, and the leafy-green grounds offer much-needed relief from the tropical glare.

As supper time rolls around, the resort’s renowned Nam restaurant serves a range of Malay and international dishes. After sampling the nine-course Nyonya Platter – which features showstoppers like succulent prawns in pandan leaf and aubergine coconut curry – it’s all too easy to while away the evening on Nam’s canopied terrace.

Pentai Cenang is deserving of further culinary exploration, though – namely the roving night market which pops up at different places on the island, depending on the day of the week (Thursday is Pentai Centang’s turn, head to Bohor Tempoyak).

By day, a great way to explore the island chain is on a day cruise or, for the more adventurous, a jet ski – an option that lets you admire the coastline from a distance. Following a knowledgeable local guide, it’s an exhilarating trip across the water to the first of eight islands on a stunning half-day tour with local company Mega Watersports. The first stop, Dayang Bunting Island, is home to a lake (according to legend, swimming in it boosts female fertility), several jungle treks and enough pesky monkeys to populate dozens of zoos.

Another Langkawi activity is scuba diving. Albeit a slightly murkier experience than on other Southeast Asian islands, there’s still ample chance to spot coral, clownfish, sea horses and more. After, sip ice-cold sundowners on the beach as the sky turns from azure blue to golden pink.

While Pentai Cenang offers much to keep the traveller entertained, Langkawi’s star attraction is the Panorama Langkawi – a 20-minute cable car journey up the magnificent Gunung Machinchang Mountain. If you conquered Petronas Towers then brave Langkawi’s version of the sky bridge, a single span suspension bridge that seems to hover over the rainforest below.

Of course, it would be unfair to let Langkawi steal the limelight when it comes to Malaysian islands. There are equally beautiful archipelagos on both sides of the Malay Peninsula. Yet as bucket-list destinations go, this tropical gem is definitely up there. Far too soon it’s time to return to bustling KL (this time by plane). But as the island disappears under the clouds beneath you, you’ll already be vowing to return.

Text: Siobhan Brewood-Wyatt

Water way to indulge in resort living

Planted securely on solid earth, it’s easy to forget that our humble planet’s surface is only 30 percent land. The rest, of course, is water. So with such an immense body of the stuff to explore, why should we limit our holiday getaways to terra firma? Why stay at a crash pad when you can opt instead for a splash pad? A number of visionary developers around the world have begun to build luxurious and fully equipped villas on – and even under – the water.

There’s no shortage of floating hideaways worth splashing out on, whether it be a Polynesian-themed bungalow or spaceship-shaped domicile. These amphibious residences will tickle the fancy of both the most adventurous maritime marveller and ardent landlubber. Dive right in, the water’s fine – but don’t forget an overnight bag.

Underwater Oasis

Drawn up by European architects from the Kleindienst Group, The Floating Seahorse resorts in Dubai’s “Heart of Europe” development are truly a marvel of modern design. Situated just a short boat ride from the coast, each “seahorse” has three levels: an upper deck with a mini bar and Jacuzzi, a floor at sea level and – most impressively – an underwater level. From the submerged section, guests can peer out of the floor-to-ceiling windows in the master bedroom and en-suite bathroom and take in the breathtaking subterranean views of the Arabian Gulf. A riotously colourful coral garden attached to the bottom level’s ledge may even attract some actual seahorses looking for their own secluded shelter. Although the resorts are still under construction, there will eventually be a total of 90 such dwellings.

River Liver

“The Fennell Residence belongs on the water; if it were built anywhere else it would make little sense,” says architect Robert Harvey Oshatz, the mastermind behind this stunning structure on the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon. At a glance, it’s easy to see why. The floating home’s curved lines appear to ebb and flow into one another, much like the river’s gentle tide. With western red cedar shingles and a Douglas fir deck outdoors, coupled with Brazilian cherry floors indoors, the home blends effortlessly into its natural surroundings. A sliding glass door opens out onto a bespoke deck, while the master bedroom overlooks the dining area and further beyond to the river. The living room boasts a floor-to-ceiling window, offering sweeping views of the river and perfectly framing the sunset to mark another tranquil day spent in an aquatic paradise.

“Why stay at a crash pad when you can opt instead for a splash pad?”

Futuristic Floater

The next aquatic property on our list comes courtesy of Dutch developer New Living on Water. With an ultramodern design that bears resemblance to a spaceship, these pod-shaped properties offer an escape that feels worlds away from Earth, while still providing a quick route back to land via a car jetty attached to each unit. Remarkably, each residence comes equipped with an elevator, six-car garage, outdoor terrace, private dining room, underwater view and a pool (just in case the surrounding waters weren’t enough). Available in three sizes, these pods are also eco-friendly and are powered by renewable energy sources. Although they have been marketed towards Dubai residents, the properties are not bound by geographic location and can be sold to customers anywhere in the world, either individually or as part of a larger hotel unit.

Bespoke Buoyancy

Aside from the fact that floating houses aren’t something you see every day, the most unique aspect of this boathouse – designed by Singapore-based architect Dymitr Malcew – is that each unit is designed individually according to the location, climate and client’s preferences. Buoyed by a floating platform, these bespoke homes can easily be moved from one location to the next, and can also be “docked” at a marina or pier. An outdoor terrace that wraps around the sleek, modern home can be accessed via the master bathroom, living room and two further bedrooms. Ideal for nature lovers, the home’s glass walls offer an unrivalled view of the water, while seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor worlds.

“These amphibious residences will tickle the fancy of both the most adventurous maritime marveller and ardent landlubber”

Submerged Sleeper

For those desiring to explore the depths of their adventurous spirit, the Lovers Deep cruise to the bottom of the ocean is just the ticket. Offered by luxury property rental firm Oliver’s Travels, this submarine sports all the modern conveniences and comfort of a luxury hotel. You and your first mate will be joined on-board by a chef, personal butler and, of course, the captain. To set the mood de l’amour, a special aphrodisiac tasting menu proffers oysters, caviar and chocolate fondant. Guests can also arrange for rose petals to be scattered to surprise their beloved, and breakfast is served in bed with champagne. With your sweetheart’s arms wrapped around you and a wondrous view of deep-sea life, it will be some time before you start to miss dry land.

Island Home

With its sparkling aquamarine waters and tropical climate, the Maldives is home to some of the world’s most spectacular and luxurious floating villas. Soneva Jani, a resort situated in a lagoon in the Indian Ocean, is no exception. The resort boasts 24 overwater villas, with ample space in between to afford guests the utmost in privacy and relaxation. The two-bedroom water retreat comes with a mini bar, retractable roof, upper and lower deck, pool and a slide dipping into the ocean. At night, the warm glow of the resort’s interior lighting is beautifully reflected onto the water’s surface. Those feeling a little peckish after swimming or simply lazing about under the sun need venture no further than the main guest building, The Gathering. This floating hub has a spa, library, wine cellar, retail space and restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood and pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven.

Polynesian Paradise

Holidaymakers travel great distances to come to Bora Bora, a tiny, 29 square kilometre island in French Polynesia that is world-renowned for its turquoise waters, lagoon and barrier reef. While Bora Bora is home to dozens of floating villas, Le Méridien resort has truly raised the bar. Its premium overwater bungalow, which can accommodate three people, overlooks Mount Otemanu – one of two peaks which form an ancient, extinct volcano. The bungalow’s design features playful tiki touches, like a wooden canopy bed and surfboard-shaped coffee table. An outdoor terrace allows guests to get as close to the Pacific Ocean as possible, and the blue-green waters seem to stretch endlessly towards the horizon.

Text: Emily Petsko

Give your pet the royal treatment

Hong Kongers in general treat their pets like royalty, whether it’s making the pampered animals wear little coats and shoes to buying the best food available, no matter the cost.

For pet owners who want to spoil their beloved animal even more, we have put together a list of innovative ideas that will take treating your pet like royalty to a whole new level.

Furbo

All loving owners wonder what their precious pets get up to when they are not around. Alas, thanks to the beauty of technology and the Furbo pet monitor, you can keep an eye on your pet, literally. The Furbo also feeds your pet treats to ensure they are well-fed and not in a grumpy mood.

Click here for more information.

Petkit eversweet water dispenser

Concerned about whether your pet has enough water? Well, cast your worries aside as the eversweet water dispenser has your back.

Serving as an intelligent drinking fountain, the water dispenser, created by Petkit, is equipped with a light and level sensor and will filter and refill fresh water automatically. Now that’s the way for pets to drink water in style.

Click here for more information.

Petkit Fresh Metal

In addition to their revolutionary water dispenser, Petkit also take care of your pet’s weight.

Sometimes it’s hard to resist those puppy-dog eyes and we give them treats here and there, but with the smart antibacterial bowl, your pet will still get the food it loves, but stay healthy at the same time.

As a 2016 iF Design Award winner, the feeding bowl weighs exactly how much food your pet needs given their weight, breed and other vital information.

The bowl is also designed to keep unwanted guests like bacteria and bugs away.

Click here for more information.

Spring/Summer 2017: This season’s stunning styles are going au naturel

Spring and summer give the world’s most iconic fashion brands the chance to show off their latest styles. Taking the uncertainty of 2017 head on, the overriding theme this season is a bold return to nature. A riot of brash, vibrant colours are craftily incorporated into floral, nautical and tropical themes to create alluring combinations. Overtures of sportiness and the healthy glow of the great outdoors are also thrown into the mix, making for lively, enchanting ensembles.
This is also the first time one of our full-length fashion features also caters to the Gafencu woman. Hopefully these fresh creations will be a source of thrilling fashion inspiration!

BOSS WOMEN BOTTEGA VENETA CERRUTI 1881 CHANEL DIOR DOLCE & GABBANA 
ELIE SAAB ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA FENDI GIORGIO ARMANI GIVENCHY BY RICCARDO TISCI 
GUCCI HERMES LANVIN LOEWE LOUIS VUITTON MICHAEL KORS ROBERTO CAVALLI VALENTINO VERSACE

BOSS WOMEN

Sporty and colourful are the buzz words that best describe Boss’s latest line-up. Described as an “athleisure” collection, the outfits are versatile and functional while retaining a fashionable aesthetic that would be perfect for watching a tennis match or heading to the beach. Some silhouettes are fluid with loose layers, while others are tapered for a more feminine look. This laidback style is delivered through a range of elements: internal drawstrings, adjustable straps, colour-contrast pleats, fabric belts and mesh layers. Each piece is beachy and vibrant, with dominant colours of electric blue, scarlet and forest green.

BOTTEGA VENETA

Bottega Veneta’s new Spring/Summer 2017 collection is a hark back to languid 1940s silhouettes. Charactersied by full pants and accentuated by soft-tailored outerwear, the line-up exudes an air of lush casual style with precise geometric patterns. The colour palette has a sophisticated earthy allure to it with saturated shades of green, grey, brown, burgundy and purple set against more neutral tones of stone and plaster, and crafted in materials that include matte and patent leathers, sturdy linens, cotton blends and sueded or coated cotton. Accessories include suede or crocodile saddle shoes and lace-ups in washed calf leather.

CERRUTI 1881

Cerruti continues to embrace a strong brand identity and the new Spring/Summer 2017 line is a clear evolution of its idea of masculine relaxed elegance. The collection is a creative balance of chic sportswear and innovative knitwear that exude a sense of refined passion and modern timelessness, through soft cuts and voluminous fabric.
New this season is the addition of a denim collection with a sportier and more casual feel. Accessories for the line-up include canvas and leather bags in camo-foliage motif as well as derby style shoes with crepe or white micro soles and hand-burnished leather sandals.

CHANEL

Chanel’s new collection is one that “allies the audacity of lingerie and the comfort of tweed,” according to the iconic French label. The house – headed up by the omnipresent Karl Lagerfeld – also had the audacity to create hitherto unlikely pairings, like tweed suits with baseball caps worn sideways. Chanel, one of the most classic labels, has suddenly become a lot more modern. It is also a decidedly colourful collection, with splashes of blue, red, yellow and neon pink. One standout piece is a provocative dress in a dazzling print resembling strobe lights; the dress splits at the waist to reveal a sheer, lacy slip underneath.

DIOR

As Dior’s artistic director, Maria Grazia Chiuri can’t get enough of translucent dresses and fluffy tulle skirts. If Carrie Bradshaw weren’t just a fictional character from Sex and the City, she would be all over this collection. The pieces aren’t all soft around the edges, though. Delicate, feminine elements are given a stylish edge when paired with a red leather jacket, or calf-high sneaker boots. Undergarments that sport self-referencing puns, like “j’adior,” are confidently shown off underneath sheer, silky skirts and dresses. Jackets inspired by the sport of fencing and the zodiac are also featured in the designer’s debut collection.

DOLCE & GABBANA

If Frida Kahlo, a drum major and a 1950s housewife got together and brainstormed a line of clothing, it may look something like Dolce & Gabbana’s latest collection. Playful and vibrant, this collection puts the fun back into fashion. Said to be inspired by the tropics, it also has distinctly Italian motifs, as seen in pieces imprinted with images of pizza, pasta, kitchen utensils, cannoli and what appears to be Roman Catholic patron saints. The range of styles is equally diverse. Girly, vintage-style sundresses, militaristic jackets, drum-shaped bags, flower headdresses and modern T-shirts are all thrown into the mix.

ELIE SAAB

The pink glittery runway was the first sign that Elie Saab’s Spring/Summer 2017 collection would be a bedazzling spectacle. Eye-catching ensembles in tulle, lurex, leather and silk mousseline carry an electric energy that would not feel out of place on a discotheque dance floor or at a trendy gala. One standout piece, a metallic gold pantsuit, was paired with a blouse and bag in a technicoloured print. Of course, it wouldn’t be a star-studded occasion without some stars in the collection, making an appearance on appliqués, embroidery and prints. Sexy, shimmering gowns take on a more rebellious, urban look when paired with a matching ball cap.

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA

The Ermenegildo Zegna Spring/Summer 2017 line is a breath of fresh spring air. Drawing on inspiration from the 50s, the collection is the epitome of Italian savoir faire and is ideal for the gentleman who appreciates the importance of personal style. Casual and classic, the line incorporates a range of unique fabrics, from seersucker, hopsack, ottoman and etamine to pure silks, hemps and light leather and suede. Awash in an earthy cinematic colour palette of tobacco brown, mauve, burgundy and blues with accents of ivory white, the collection has an unmistakeable air of timeless elegance.

FENDI

Leave it to designer Karl Lagerfeld to find a way to work nautical stripes, colourful sock booties and feminine floral patterns into Fendi’s latest collection. Somehow, these disparate elements pair well together to create a seamless finish. In several of the looks on display, lingerie plays an integral role in the overall outfit. One-piece bodysuits and bralettes coquettishly peek out from sheer skirts, aprons and ribbon-tied gowns. Floral and bow appliqués on trousers and trench coats lend a delicate touch to the collection. Athletic touches can also be seen in Fendi’s striped knit sweaters and trainers laced with grosgrain ribbon.

GIORGIO ARMANI

Blue hues, tranquil prints and flowing silhouettes are spotlighted in Giorgio Armani’s newest collection, which was inspired by the world’s rich ethnic heritages. These influences are evident in the sarong skirts and trousers made from diaphanous veils. From a distance, the pieces appear to flow like water when the models set into motion, thanks to the harmonious mélange of blues and purples and maritime-themed floral prints. Armani finds the perfect balance between reserved and provocative, creating pieces that unveil the body only to cover it again.

GIVENCHY BY RICCARDO TISCI

Each piece of Givenchy’s latest collection is distinctly feminine, inspired by the spirituality of nature. “Women are fighting for power, not only in America, but everywhere in the world,” said Givenchy creative director Riccardo Tisci. “So I wanted to do something more sensual and more powerful, and for me, that’s tied to nature.” Whereas last year’s collection featured black-and-white pieces, this year, vibrant colours straight from nature are on display. Jersey and silk feature prominently in this collection, which includes sleek pantsuits and multi-layered dresses in playful prints and polka dots.

GUCCI

Emblazoned with the logo “Modern Culture,” the new Gucci collection is a wonderful potpourri of cultures and references, thrown together with almost reckless abandon to create a feeling of foreign fantasy and escapism. A magical scrambling of place and time sees a variety of patterns, embroideries and references all represented in luxurious fabrics and whimsical colours. Aesthetically striking, the collection teases visions of 13th century China mixed with futuristic urban glamour. To pigeon hole this collection with a theme would be to do it injustice, such is its sense of adventure.

HERMES

Showing how to perfectly execute high couture, this Hermès collection once again emphasises the artistic talent behind the French fashion giant. With the smallest hint of 80s power dressing, each look is designed to accentuate, predominantly through the tailored waistlines. Oversized coats, flared trousers and defined shoulder lines give the collection a work-wear feel, although bold hues and tassels add an element of playfulness. Stand-out looks include a smocked waist trench coat in fuchsia paired with a full body suit in silk knit, plus an imperial lemon-yellow dress with silk cigaline.

LANVIN

On Lanvin’s most recent collection, Bouchra Jarrar, the brand’s creative director, says, “I’ve been exploring paths of sensuality and intimacy. I love to dress women, to reveal themselves to themselves, to sublime them.” Little wonder, then, that the collection is a harmoniously beautiful ensemble that manages to both subvert and beguile. The fabrics speak for themselves: dipped lambskin, lacquered fur, silk chiffon and organza, to name a few. A nod to the androgynous trend – namely with a long pinstriped robe and tuxedo pairing – keeps things decidedly current.

LOEWE

There’s a distinctive look about Loewe’s new collection: tribal. Dramatically executed, the overall effect is one of rich culture and feminine silhouettes. The theatrical, voluminous designs come in the form of balloon blouses and peasant shirts with wide-cut sleeves, while futuristic touches are found in the bold, brightly-hued accessories. Alongside sit tassels, lace, fringing and ruffles. It is the attention to fabric that creates authenticity, though. The formidable inventory includes linen, burlap, patchwork, nylon, cotton, jersey, plissé and leather. The jewellery, which features a beautiful ceramic necklace, adds the finishing touch.

LOUIS VUITTON

No city is more fitting for one of France’s finest fashion houses than Paris, where Louis Vuitton unveiled its new collection. Held on iconic Place Vendôme, fittingly home to the brand’s newest flagship store, the collection sought to capture the very essence of Parisian glamour. Showcasing sophistication with attitude, the brand’s elegant tailoring is reminiscent of its previous collections, notably the bold cut-outs. With loosely clinched waists, statement prints and the occasional hint of military precision, each garment exudes a certain je ne sais quoi. Glitzy fabrics add a surprise touch of glam rock.

MICHAEL KORS

Romantic yet sultry, enigmatic yet flirty – these are just some of the contrasts Michael Kors’ latest collection evokes. Ultimately, the pieces pay tribute to the season, with pretty floral patterns boldly printed on many garments. Complemented by elaborate embroidered flowers, the colour palette is decidedly timely: Tangerine, aqua and azalea are all featured. Fluid, floating dresses, casual trousers and peek-a-boo, split-thigh skirts contrast with clinched waists, trench coats and pullovers. Off-duty wear comes in the form of a crop top and midi skirt combo, while a fitted black dress is a red-carpet-worthy affair.

ROBERTO CAVALLI

Heavily inspired by the nomadic lifestyle of a seasoned traveller, the new Roberto Cavalli collection is best described as rock n’ roll chic with a libertarian nod to the 70s. The luxurious line-up is permeated with artisanal influences such as Japanese kimonos, Moroccan djebellas, embroidered tunics, ponchos, clogs, Turkish bath cloths, washed and patch-worked denim and fringed leather jackets.
“It’s an iconic rock star’s wardrobe,” explained designer Peter Dundas. Indeed the collection is ideal for the man or woman with a true sense of personal style and a desire for adventure and the uninhibited spirit of excess.

VALENTINO

“The end of the journey coincides with the start. It is women, represented in the plural: as individuals, not characters. A punk idea of humanism.” This is how Valentino enigmatically describes its new collection, in a nod to both traditional style and contemporary flair. The looks summarise this ethos, with floating, 20s-esque dresses, embellished with beaded detail, featured alongside provocatively transparent 90s-era gothic gowns. There’s a definite Edwardian theme too, thanks to high necklines and empress cuts, but this is interspersed with loose, cargo-cut trousers and wide, prairie sleeves. The effect is one of nostalgic and ephemeral grace.

VERSACE

Versace’s new collection has upped the style stakes once again, with feisty athleticism reigning supreme. Outdoor wear features heavily, with anoraks, nylon pockets, sportswear-style tees and flat-form sandals a common theme. The confidence of each outfit, from the hues of deep purple and rich green, to the billowing, oversized hoods, keeps things vibrant, as does the occasional splash of asymmetric print. It’s also versatile: A figure-hugging pencil skirt and crop top pairing could be worn around town, while a more demure high-necked, drop-waist pleat dress is an office-worthy look.

Five beautiful, exclusive Hong Kong wedding venues

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, so it comes as little surprise that choosing the perfect venue is crucial for many smitten betrothed. From intimate affairs to all-out extravaganzas, these Hong Kong wedding venues offer beautiful settings in which to say, “I do.”

The Upper House Secret Garden

Nestled in the heart of Admiralty, The Upper House, a luxury city-centre hotel, is a wonderfully intimate venue with a decidedly contemporary edge. For glamorous nuptials, ‘The Lawn,’ a secluded green space on the sixth level, offers the perfect inner-city oasis plus stunning metropolitan views. The space can accommodate 70 to 120 guests and it caters for wedding parties with a dedicated canapés and drinks package.

The Verandah, Repulse Bay

A beautiful bride deserves a beautiful setting, and where better than The Verandah in Repulse Bay? With spectacular sea views and al fresco or canopied ceremonies available, you’re guaranteed wedding photographs to last a lifetime. There are a variety of packages available, including ‘Classic’ and ‘Summer,’ plus Western or Asian catering options.

Hullet House

Originally built in 1881, Hullet House’s colonial charm is the perfect setting for an elegant wedding. Offering a range of nuptial options, including set and bespoke packages, the venue has hosted ceremonies for dozens of well-heeled Hong Kongers over the decades.

The Mira

For a truly decadent affair that your guests will never forget, The Mira regularly hosts exclusive weddings for the city’s glitterati. Offering a choice of six different ‘themes’ the extravagant hotel has a dedicated wedding service that can arrange everything from centrepieces to seating. As the venue itself says: “Creating the perfect wedding takes a special touch. The Mira Hong Kong has it all, at your fingertips.”

The White Chapel at the Auberge

A stunning contemporary space in Discovery Bay, the White Chapel offers panoramic sea views from its triangular-shaped white interior. Offering tailor-made packages, designed to cater for all kinds of ceremonies, the venue can comfortably fit up to 120 guests. A horse-drawn carriage is also available for the bride and groom.

As C.Y. Leung comes to the end of his term, we take a look at his time in office

“Politics is the art of choosing between the disastrous and the unpalatable.”

So said Canadian economist and thinker John Kenneth Galbraith. With that sentiment in mind, it’s difficult to think of public figures more polarising than Hong Kong’s incumbent Chief Executive, C.Y. Leung. However, there was seemingly a genuine and unified reaction of shock when Leung – having served as the city’s top official since 2012 – announced his decision not to seek re-election this year, after serving just one term as Hong Kong’s political leader.

“After I made the announcement I knew that I could now have more time for my family, and I felt relieved. My family supports my decision,” said Leung.

C.Y. Leung – or Leung Chun-ying, to quote his full name – was born on 12 August 1954 in what was then British Hong Kong. He was afforded a scholarship to King’s College in Hong Kong, where he attended secondary school before studying at Hong Kong Polytechnic. Upon graduating in 1974, Leung undertook further studies at Bristol Polytechnic in the UK before finishing first in his class in 1977.

Although he was undoubtedly a good student and a diligent worker, there was little at this point to suggest that Leung was destined for a future as Hong Kong’s top politician. His career began modestly with a job at real estate company Jones Lang Wootton (JLW) where he worked for five years.

“While Leung’s tenure was a mixed bag, it’s fair to say he fulfilled some of his campaign promises”

Upon leaving JLW, Leung joined the Hong Kong Basic Law Consultative Committee in 1985, his first foray into politics. Leung would later become real estate advisor for Zhu Rongji, when the latter was mayor and party chief in Shanghai from 1998 to 2003. Zhu would go on to be vice-premier and eventually fifth premier of the People’s Republic of China. It’s not difficult to imagine that this time spent in such elite political company may well have sown the seed that would blossom into Leung’s steadfast political ambition.

Officially announcing his decision to run as Hong Kong Chief Executive in 2011 – two years after hinting at the prospect – Leung was elected on 1 July 2012 after a hard-fought campaign.

After five years in the hot seat his term comes to an end later this year. In today’s fleet-footed digital age, where information travels ever-faster and attention spans grow ever-shorter, Hong Kong has already turned its rapt attention to the next election for Chief Executive.

Leung gave his final policy address recently, in which he was quoted as saying: “I don’t want to create any legacy, but I think it would be useful for everyone to actually go through the policy addresses of the past five years … and ask whether or not these are the right policies and measures that people in Hong Kong need.”

in mind we take a look back at some of these policies and measures and ask exactly what kind of reluctant legacy will C.Y. Leung leave as Chief Executive?

While most will agree that Leung’s tenure as Chief Executive was a mixed bag at best, there are those who cannot deny that he managed to fulfil some of his campaign promises successfully.

Welcomed by workers but not as well received by businesses, Leung finally announced his intention to scrap the controversial Mandatory Provident Fund offsetting mechanism during his final policy address on January 18th this year. The offsetting mechanism previously allowed employers to use money they put into workers’ retirement funds to cover their severance and long-service payments. Workers considered it an unfair policy, which has sparked controversy and protests since the policy was introduced in 2000.

To ease the transition, the government is expected to subsidise the new setup over the next 10 years – with an estimated cost of HK$1 billion for the first year alone. While this comes very near the end of his term, it is nonetheless a campaign promise fulfilled, much to the approval of the average Hong Kong worker.

Other successes that Leung has enjoyed while in office include promptly dealing with the milk powder shortage brought on by reports of tainted milk powder on the mainland in 2013. Parallel traders from the mainland made life difficult for local mothers when they bought up local stock of milk powder to bring back across the border for re-sale. Leung swiftly declared a limit of two cans per person, which alleviated the shortage and brought relief to local mothers.

Similarly, Leung also acted decisively when mainland mothers were overwhelming the supply of hospital beds in Hong Kong. Pregnant mainland mothers made their way to Hong Kong in large numbers for dual purpose: to take advantage of the city’s premium private healthcare, while hoping to secure Hong Kong residency for their child by giving birth in the city. Leung curtailed the strain being placed on local maternity wards by announcing a ban on non-local parents having babies in Hong Kong. This resulted in the number of babies born to non-local parents being cut from more than 35,000 per year to about 800 per year and freeing up much needed maternity beds for local mothers-to-be.

One of Leung’s major campaign promises was addressing Hong Kong’s housing shortage. Leung has made this a priority but has arguably had less success in this area.

At the end of 2016 the government announced it would maintain a target of adding 280,000 public flats and 180,000 private flats to the housing market within a decade. While efforts have no doubt been made in identifying potential land for re-development, the shortage of readily available land and opposition to re-zoning of existing land has considerably hampered any real progress. Despite his best efforts, Hong Kong retains the undesirable honour of being one of the world’s most expensive cities to live in – not least due to the high cost of apartment rentals.

“After I step down, I would like the new government to continue to look after the underprivileged”

Another issue high on Leung’s agenda has been attempts to address environmental pollution in the city. Again, critics will claim that more could have been done while others have praised Leung’s initiatives to force ocean-going ships to switch to cleaner fuel and efforts to replace thousands of heavily polluting vehicles. While this has undoubtedly had some impact on the city’s air quality, Leung and the government have made little headway in addressing the city’s waste disposal issues.

In terms of environmental conservation, Leung’s government was lauded for a plan to phase out the local ivory trade by 2021. However, others point to hypocrisy in the fact that no allowances have been made for Chinese white dolphins – a species that is currently in danger of extinction. Its habitat is under dire threat from infrastructure projects such as the Hong Kong–Zuhai–Macau bridge.

It would also be impossible to talk about C.Y. Leung’s tenure as Chief Executive without mentioning Occupy Central. In late September 2014, students and protestors took to the streets to rally against a decision by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPCSC) regarding proposed reforms to the Hong Kong electoral system. The decision was widely seen to be highly restrictive, and tantamount to the Chinese Communist Party’s pre-screening of the candidates for the leadership of Hong Kong.

What followed was 79 days of protests, where students set up camp in several of the city’s high-profile areas. On the first night of the protests, events culminated in the firing of tear gas by police on protestors on C.Y. Leung’s order. Not only was this incident harmful for Leung’s poll numbers but it also thrust Hong Kong politics firmly into the international spotlight, no doubt much to Beijing’s annoyance.

In policy terms, C.Y. Leung has himself declared that he has basically delivered on all his election promises, while his critics point to a lack of initiatives to heal the social and political divides that have marked his time in power. On the other hand, he has also been hailed for his shift of focus from pure politics to more developmental policies that address the standard of living in the city.

“After I step down, speaking as a Hong Kong person, I would like … the new government to continue to look after the underprivileged, particularly the elderly,” says Leung.

For better or worse, C.Y. Leung has left his indelible mark on our city. As with anything political, it might be some time before we can actually gauge the effectiveness of his policies. One thing is certain, though. Whoever wins this year’s election has quite a job ahead of them.

Text: Hans Schlaikier

Skin Laundry celebrates opening of new store with Olympic swimmers

Hong Kongers looking for a high-tech laser blitz on their face are in luck with the opening of Skin Laundry’s third store.

The American skincare and laser facial treatment brand has opened a store in Causeway Bay that offers the company’s signature 15-minute express laser treatment.

To promote the company’s ethos of healthy living, Skin Laundry has picked Hong Kong Olympic swimmers Camille Cheng and Geoffrey Cheah to be brand ambassadors.

Camille and Geoffrey, obviously, credit their glowing skin to Skin Laundry’s treatment and products.

“Soaking in Chlorine water in the swimming pool daily made my skin dry and flaky until I found Skin Laundry. The simple yet effective formula of their products keeps my skin moisturised and soothes the sensitiveness of my skin,” said Cheah.

The 15-minute two-step facial uses a YAG Laser and IPL Light system to deep clean, brighten, release wrinkles, treat acne and stimulate collagen for clearer, younger-looking skin.

Get travel tips from movie star Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba is well known for her roles in the Fantastic Four and Sin City, but the Hollywood starlet is now dishing out advice on travel.

Don’t believe me? Well, the Golden Globe-nominated actress has teamed up with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts to give you some tips on what to do on the Riviera Maya, which is a stretch of Caribbean coastline located on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán Peninsula and the location of the Rosewood Mayakoba resort.

“We love traveling together as a family, and the Riviera Maya is one of our favorite destinations,” Alba said. “Whether it’s exploring the Mayan ruins, swimming in the magical cenotes, or cooking an authentic meal together, we enjoy exploring the rich cultural history of this destination and all it has to offer.”

Alba is the latest celebrity to become part of the Rosewood Curator programme. Some of the other names associated to the campaign include fashion icon Iris Apfel and film director Johnnie To.

For more information, visit: www.rosewoodhotels.com