Tag: high fashion

Take your pick: The most glamorous fashion accessories of the season

Fashion accessories are to an outfit like seasoning is to a dish – a way to elevate your fashion style with a touch of finesse. Whether you’re going for ’80s glam or Parisian chic, boost your best looks with these glamorous fashion must-haves, courtesy of the crème de la crème of fashion authorities.

Go on – take your pick. 

gafencu fashion accessories july look 1

Look 1
Dionysus shoulder bag by Gucci; Brooch with lion head motif by Gucci; Pris mirrored leather wedge sandals by Giuseppe Zanootti; Jane Frances 18K gold sunglasses by Amavii 

gafencu fashion accessories july look 2

Look 2
Barcelona bag by Loewe; Bracelet with G motif by Gucci; Sterling silver bracelet with black and tiger eye enamel by Gucci; Heeled mules by Iris & Ink courtesy of The Outnet 

gafencu fashion accessories july look 4

Look 3
Elephant basket bag by Loewe; Jellyfish charm by Loewe; Extra tall straw bucket bag by Eliurpi, courtesy of Lane  Crawford; Bicolour straw bucket vase bag with strap by Eliurpi, courtesy of Lane Crawford; Wide brim hat by Eliurpi, courtesy of Lane Crawford

gafencu fashion accessories july look 3

Look 4
Re-Nylon headband by Prada; Viva handbag by Salvatore Ferragamo; Trifolio bag by Salvatore Ferragamo 

gafencu fashion accessories july look 5

Look 5
Beaubourg ankle boots by Louis Vuitton; Lattice jacquard tote by Shanghai Tang; Hourglass multi-belt bag by Balenciaga  

gafencu fashion accessories july look 6

Look 6
Candle by Amavii; Large linen top-handle tote by Gucci; Sabdale Du Dessert heels by Christian Louboutin 

Also Read: Bespoke services for your wardrobe

Cannes 2021: Key fashion moments you cannot miss!

Fashion is having an exciting moment right now. The Couture Fashion Week just wrapped up in Paris, the 74th Cannes Film Festival is still on and all of France is breathtakingly chic in couture glitz and glamour. 

After a whole year of lockdowns and restrictions, the comeback of the red carpet is the most talked about event of summer and celebrities obviously went all out with their fashion quotient. From Bella Hadid’s dream-like vintage gown to Spike Lee rocking the most memorable outfit of the week- it has been a week of iconic, dazzling fashion exhibitionism…

1. Bella Hadid

The brass lung necklace which made heads turn!

We love an iconic couture moment. Bella Hadid brought oodles of drama to the red carpet in one of the most stunning high-fashion looks of the Cannes Film Festival. The gold-dipped lung-hugging necklace, the sensational avant-garde black gown from the Schiaparelli Haute Couture Fall-Winter 2021/22 collection, was the talk of the red carpet and social media around the world. 

The 24-year-old model pulled out a vintage white Jean Paul Gaultier column gown from Jean Paul Gaultier’s 2002 spring/summer collection

For the second look, the supermodel attended the annual opening ceremony and a screening of the film Annette in a Jean Paul Gaultier piece looking like an absolute (feminine) dream. The hair, earrings, tulle and train – all spot on.

2. Spike Lee

Living it up on the red carpet!

A refined suiting moment with a twist – who doesn’t live for some red carpet magic!

Spike Lee, the director of BlacKkKlansman, Da 5 Bloods, and dozens of other films, wore the most memorable suit of the Cannes red carpet. His eye-popping, bright pink tuxedo and custom-made Nike Jordan’s and black fedora, was every bit suave, sophisticated and stylish as you can imagine. He’s definitely one of the most fashionable people in Hollywood. 

3. Jessica Chastain

The strapless, semi-sheer Dior gown with thin waves of black velvet is equal parts elegant and cool!

She looked both both whimsical and elegant. Jessica Chastain’s Christian Dior black mesh gown did the impossible – it served goth vibes in a very graceful way. We love the side ponytail, the bold lip and the three-tier pink neckpiece. Mesh and lace have been getting their moments in the Spring-2021 runways of Fendi, Balmain, Kenzo, amongst others, and it’s delightful to see it make the crossover to the red carpet. 

4. Hellen Mirren

The Oscar-winning veteran actress looked incredible in a head-to-toe saffron outfit!

The veteran actress served us inspiration on how to rock the red carpet at 75! She styled her radiant, sunshine dress with a breathtaking emerald necklace and a pair of matching drop earrings.

5. Hana Cross

The model sparkled in her glittering metallic knee high split gown

Wearing a plunging sequin Rami Kadi dress, the 24-year-old model vowed the red carpet. She kept the makeup and hair simple and classy – the phenomenal dress was the hero and it sure did all the talking. 

6. Maggie Gyllenhaal

43-year-old Maggie Gyllenhaal looked absolutely stunning in a wore a floor-length crimped dress with a cape. 

7. Diane Kruger

There’s no ordinary in Cannes!

German actress and former fashion model, Diane Kruger was a picture of elegance in this black Georgio Armani number. The stunning Chaumet jewels were dazzling too!

Which red carpet look was your favourite? We can’t choose just one, let us know in the comments below if you have a favourite?

Five stunning and functional raincoats to stock your closet with this rainy season

A good summer collection is not without a trusty raincoat. With Hong Kong’s rainy season having descended a little early, the Gafencu team has curated a careful selection of stylish waterproof and water-resistant coats to help keep you dry in style. Whether you’re in need of a lightweight water-resistant trench coat or a versatile raincoat with a detachable hood, here are our top picks…

1. Detachable bucket hat raincoat by Jil Sander
Raincoats designed with features to offer added protection from the rain, especially on days that an umbrella is not handy, makes for a clever accouterment. Much like Jil Sander’s hooded cape anorak, a uniquely versatile coat that features a detachable bucket hat style hood and cape style.
Price: HK$29,166
Where to find it: Farfetch.com

2. Detachable-cape raincoat by Bottega Veneta
Another versatile and eco-friendy piece to add to the wet season collection is Bottega Veneta’s detachable-cape cocoon coat, an ultra-sleek and contemporary faux-leather/cotton-blend with a detachable cape design meant to drape over and shield the wearer’s back, arms, and chest. The coat was made through 50% positively conscious process (either organic, recycled, upcycled or independently recognized as being better for the environment).
Price: HK$22,500
Where to find it: Farfetch.com

3. Bottega Veneta’s wide-sleeved trench coat
A dependable raincoat is, to nobody’s surprise, one that is made of the right materials to repel the rain. Waterproof or water resistant materials  such as polyester and polyamide are especially reliable and lightweight to wear during the summer, and Bottega Veneta’s wide-sleeved trench coat is one that fits the bill quite nicely. Made of breathable cotton blend, viscose, and polyester, both the materials and its wide sleeve design are meant to keep the coat lightweight through rain or shine.  
Price: HK$34,488
Where to find it: Farfatch.com

4. Prada gabardine coat
Taking full advantage of the nylon fabrication for the wet season, the Prada gabardine coat offers stylish full coverage for the rainy days.  Featuring a concealed button fastening at the front under a cape-design and side fastening on a three-quarter sleeve to keep its wearer cool, with the added bonus of a belted waist to emphasize the silhouette. 
Price: HK$25,300
Where to get it: Farfetch.com

5. Valentino’s feather-printed raincoat
Although a full length raincoat is undoubtly the way to go when trying to keep dry from the rain, some would prefer to keep their coats shorter in drizzling weather. Flexible, non-constricting and comfortable to move in, Valentino’s feather-printed raincoat, a lightweight, oversized long-sleeved coat with a drawstring hood, front zip fastening, and front zipped pockets may be just the ticket to turn the gloomy days right side up by fashioning this modern and modish coat in the rain. 
Price: HK$23,000
Where to get it: Farfetch.com

 

Images from Farfetch

Hot Tropics: Breezy summer fashion styles

Fancy a tropical getaway to a Mediterranean island or to a sandy white beach off the one of Asia’s many beautiful coasts? Perhaps these vogue fantasy fashion styling ideas would inspire you to manifest your deepest sartorial desires…

Look 1
On Her:
Handbag by Byredo; Swimsuit by Hermès; Heels by Christian Louboutin
On Him:
Oversized button shirt, shorts by Balenciaga; Shoes by Christian Louboutin

gafencu magazine luxury fashion Hot Tropics Breezy summer styles 1

Look 2
On Her:
Dress by Valentino; Heels by Valentino Garavani
On Him:
T-shirt and pants by Valentino; Cross-body bag by Valentino Garavani

gafencu magazine luxury fashion Hot Tropics Breezy summer styles 1 33

Look 3
On Her:
Dress, bag and heels by Versace; 
On Him:
Jacket and pants by Ralph Lauren

gafencu magazine luxury fashion Hot Tropics Breezy summer styles 2

Look 4
Jacket, vest and pants by Gucci

gafencu magazine luxury fashion Hot Tropics Breezy summer styles 3

Look 5
On Her:
Bikini top, long skirt, hand bag and heels by Loewe
On Him:
Jacket, shorts, cross-body and shoes by Gucci

gafencu magazine luxury fashion Hot Tropics Breezy summer styles 4

Look 6
On Her:
Top, pants and heels by Emporio Armani
On Him:
Jacket, pants and shoes by Emporio Armani

gafencu magazine luxury fashion Hot Tropics Breezy summer styles 5

Look 7
Earrings and top by Balenciaga

gafencu magazine luxury fashion Hot Tropics Breezy summer styles 6

Look 8
On Her:
Crystal-embellished intarsia cotton-blend terry mini dress and crystal-embellished candy mini skirt by David Koma, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Pearl acrylic and gold-tone tote by Cult Gaia, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Heels by Jimmy Choo
On Him:
Jacket and pants by Ralph Lauren; Handbag by Hermès; Shoes by Emporio Armani

gafencu magazine luxury fashion Hot Tropics Breezy summer styles 7

Look 9
On Her:
Dress, handbag, boots by Stella McCartney
On Him:
Hoodie sweater, cross-body bag, pants, and shoes by Balenciaga

 

 

Photographer: Jack Ngai
Videographer: Kingsley Lau
Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Female model: Taya (Primo Management Limited)
Male model: Sasha M (Primo Management Limited
Hair and Make-up: Heti Tsang and Joenny Lau

The Big Match: The hottest fashion accessories to add to your summer essentials

Summertime has landed early this year with temperatures rising and beach-goers diving right into the fun things, flocking to the outlying islands of Hong Kong. But before you set off, you’re sure to need the hottest fashion accessories to co-ordinate with your summer outfits. Check out our list of fashion accessories to add to your collection of summer essentials that will help you beat the heat and look great doing it, ensuring you’ll have more than just the sun set on you. 

gafencu magazine fashion accessories The Big Match styling lookbook look 1

Look 1
Small leather Roman Stud top-handle bag in nappa by Valentino Garavani; Miss Vivier Blossom Strass buckle bag in soft leather by Roger Vivier

gafencu magazine fashion accessories The Big Match styling lookbook look 2

Look 2
Nylon gabardine slingback pumps by Prada; Harmony sandals in mirrored silver leather by Giuseppe Zanotti; LV Edge necklace by Louis Vuitton; Heritage gold-plated enamel necklace by Miansai, courtesy of Mr. Porter; Runway sunglasses by Prada;  Falabella raffia medium tote by Stella McCartney; L’Epopee D’Hermès shawl in cashmere and silk by Hermès 

gafencu magazine fashion accessories The Big Match styling lookbook look 3

Look 3
Vivier Slide Blossom mules in satin by Roger Vivier; Shiny khaki Paula’s Original sunglasses by Loewe; Raffia tote bag by Prada; Game On dice and Heart Bag charm and key holder by Louis Vuitton; La Medusa card case by Versace 

gafencu magazine fashion accessories The Big Match styling lookbook look 4

Look 4
La Medusa studded round camera bag by Versace; Since 1854 Cap Ou Pas cap, LV Edge earrings, LV Starlight necklace and Game On LV  Archlight sneakers by Louis Vuitton 

gafencu magazine fashion accessories The Big Match styling lookbook look 5

Look 5
Identity leather cross-body bag by Valentino Garavani; Fisherman hat by Loewe; A Bag Mini by Maje; Tully sneakers by Salvatore Ferragamo 

gafencu magazine fashion accessories The Big Match styling lookbook look 6

Look 6
Shoulder bag by Salvatore Ferragamo; Vivier Blossom pumps in satin by Roger Vivier; Vivier Blossom Boite de Nuit micro clutch in satin by Roger Vivier; Chroma necklace and Millenia hoop earrings by Swarovski

 

 

Photographer: Jack Ngai
Videographer: Kingsley Lau
Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma

Going Green: Five local sustainable fashion brands to start following

Sustainable fashion is a movement that has become increasingly supported by high-end fashion brands and luxury houses.  To bridge the connection between high fashion and sustainability, whether through practices that reduce waste or ensure fair trade, these are the local Hong Kong sustainable fashion brands to know…

1. PHVLO 
A fashion brand with aims to promote sustainability and fair trade through their practice of up-cycling materials, reducing waste and using technology to develop functional and ‘season-less’ active wear that are functional yet fashionable . Occupying an old three-storey textile shop in Sham Shui Po which now houses their workshop and exhibition floor where they also train underprivileged women and youth from the local community. 
Location: Sham Shui Po
Price: $$$ – $,$$$

2. Sau Lee 
Just releasing their new summer capsule in time for the beach and yachting season, this PMQ-set fashion label is a brand with strong values of female empowerment and sustainability. Encompassing the city’s unique East-meets-West appeal, the brand’s line of party dresses and evening gowns are created to be worn season after season using natural and biodegradable materials and a minimal waste production practices.
Location: PMQ, Central
Price: $,$$$

3. PYE
Using only extra long cotton — said to be the best quality of cotton that  yields high thread count — the shirt tailors at PYE are adamant about using high-end sustainable cotton shirts for men using sustainable farming practices with local cotton farmers, eschewing hazardous chemicals and reducing waste in the process. Their methods are developed based on their own 15-year long research on seed and cotton farming. 
Location: Central Building, Central / Pacific Place, Admiralty

4. Unspun
Sustainable denim specialist Unspun boasts size-less jeans and zero-inventory, stocked with only a workshop and a full-size scanning capsule, the shop uniquely incorporates its 3D scanning technology to produce made-to-measure and made-to-order denim jeans that they claim to fit with perfect comfort for each individual’s preference. Their stockless approach skips the excessive waste and carbon footprint production that typically go into making jeans.
Location: HCode, Central
Price: $,$$$

5. Classic Anew
This contemporary fashion label steeped in a modern iteration of classic Chinese aesthetics is a fresh take on traditional Tang dynasty costumes and cheongsam dresses. Their approach is grounded in a philosophy of sustainability using sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton, linen, denim, and silk to produce fashion pieces that are both modern and functional.
Location: Ko Shan Theatre, Hung Hom / PMQ, Central
Price: $,$$$

 

Feature image from PHVLO

Trim Class

Any style aficionado would agree that faux fur adds elegance to high fashion effortlessly. The fabric’s ubiquitous presence on runways – appearing on Chanel boots, Miu Miu capes and more – is a visible proof of its undeniable allure. In admiration of the fabric, we at Gafencu have put together a list of products that define the charm of fur-trimmed fashion.

Supper Class: Haute couture and haute cuisine go hand in hand

How about staying at home and sharing a romantic candlelight dinner with your special someone this Valentine’s Day? But for haute cuisine to be really hot, culinary skills won’t be the only thing you will need, you need to bring your A game to the style department as well. After all, haute couture and haute cuisine indeed go hand in hand. Here’s how to nail the look.

 

Behind-the-scenes video:            

 

           

Photos: Jack Law
Art direction: San Wong
Video: Kingsley Lau
Models: Daniel Y, Minon Kim
Makeup: Esther Kwan
Hair: Catherine Au-Yeung
Venue: DADA Kitchen Showroom

Peek Performance: Unforgettable lines for drama kings and queens

           

As renowned British playwright and poet William Shakespeare  once said: “All the world’s a stage, and all men and women merely players”. This season, the Gafencu style team has carefully curated a selection of ‘Peek Performance’ pieces to help you shine on the world stage.

Look 1

Peek Performance 1
Her 
Velvet dress, lace bralette and karung leather wrap belt, all by Bottega Veneta    
Supernova sandals by Stuart Weitzman; Amethyst pendant necklace by Tabitha Simmons for Atelier Swarovski;  Moselle mini drop earrings from Atelier Swarovski’s Core Collection 

Him
Velvet tuxedo suit with dress shirt and bowtie, all by Suitsupply

Look 2

Peek Performance 2

Her
Embroidered dress by Givenchy; patent booties by Miu Miu; Moselle hoop earrings from Atelier Swarovski’s Core Collection   

Him
Silk jacket with shirt, pants and loafers, all by Bottega Veneta

Look 3
Peek Performance 3

Her
Dress and cardigan by Miu Miu; Miss Heart4Heart earrings by Folli Follie  

Him
Corduroy suit with turtle-neck sweater by Sandro Homme; ankle boots by Ermenegildo Zegna 

Look 4

Peek Performance 4

Her
Printed shirt, cropped top and skirt, all by Chloé; pumps by Bottega Veneta; Heart4Heart Mirrors earrings by Folli Follie 

Him
Jacket with shirt, pants and ankle boots, all by Bottega Veneta   

Look 5

Peek Performance 5

Her
Coat and lace dress by Blumarine; Heart4Heart Mirrors earrings by Folli Follie 

Him
Suede coat by Berluti; turtle-neck sweater by Suitsupply; eyewear by Thomas Maier

Look 6
Peek Performance 6

Her
Front-tied dress with cape coat by ANIRAC; ankle boots by Givenchy; Miss Heart4Heart earrings by Folli Follie 

Him
Dress shirt with trousers and ankle boots, all by Cerruti 1881; optical frames by Gucci 

Look 7

Peek Performance 7

Her
Dress by Michael Kors; Power Puff sling-backs by Aquazzura; shoulder-bag by Miu Miu (on floor) 

Him
Checked wool suit, sweater and ankle boots, all by Ermenegildo Zegna

Photos: Neville Lee
Art Direction & Styling: San Wong
Models: Sylwai @ A1M Management, Diogo W @ Primo
Makeup: Zoe Fan
Hair: Catherine Au-Yeung

 

Evolution of Chanel: Exploring 40 years of iconic catwalk looks

For over a century, Chanel has been thrilling fashionistas and titillating couture critics with its avant garde looks and mesmerising collections. First started by Madam Coco Chanel in 1909, this haute couture brand has managed to stand on the cutting edge of fashion year after year, decade after decade. We pay homage to this long legacy and track the evolution of Chanel over the last 40 years.

Evolution of Chanel 1979 First Year of ready-to-wear label

1979 – Chanel launched its first ready-to-wear label. Their premier collection featured sharp skirt suits and sophisticated hats.

1980’s – The iconic Karl Lagerfeld designed the first of many Chanel collections in 1984. This decade saw a heavy focus on power suits and statement hat pieces – a trend that mirrored the emancipation of women and their entrance into the workforce.

1990’s –The ‘90s saw a marked evolution of Chanel looks. After a decade of sombre suits and corporate cuts, the haute couture brand celebrated the bolder nature of women with playfully chunky jewellery and a plethora of eye-popping colours.

2000’s – Flirtatious and fun, the new millennium ushered in the popularisation of the ‘Little Black Dress’ as well as sophisticated casual wear.

2010’s –With nods to vintage fashion fads (twill suits and denim designs) as well as an eye on the future (Space-Age plastic accents), this decade was all about reconciling the past with the yet-to-come.

So where will the evolution of Chanel take us next? Only time will tell…

Images: Getty Images