Selling the High Fashion Dream: Mike Ruan of S.T Boutique
Fashion entrepreneur Mike Ruan brings coveted brand names to a young, clued-in clientele at S.T Boutique. He chats with Gafencu about his upcoming China expansion, fast cars, cool watches and investing in karaoke…
What does fashion mean to you?
Honestly, if you ask any other person in the industry, they’d probably need a thousand, or even ten thousand words to describe this. For me, though, it’s simple – the process of an artist starting from scratch with just a piece of paper, and then, by sketching and creating fashion designs, capturing the public’s imagination and earning money. I know that’s quite a mercenary way of looking at it, but that’s my personal point of view. Of course, fashion is also about talent and understanding people’s needs, because without this you can’t be successful.
Did you always know you wanted to work in fashion or did you have other aspirations?
Actually, when I was a child in Wenzhou [in Zhejiang Province], I saw so many movies with cool cops that I really wanted to become a police officer. I remember every weekend I’d be begging my parents to take me to the toy shop so I could buy police badges, guns and the like to play at being a cop at home.
Of course, my dreams changed as I grew older. In 2008, I decided to enrol in high school in the UK, not just because of the high calibre of the education there, but also because I wanted to see and learn more about the world than my home town. I made the move to London all by myself, and my boarding school – DLD College London – was just a stone’s throw from Selfridges department store, so I quickly became introduced to the Western fashion. The first major brand that I fell in love with was Dior Homme. I was particularly enamoured with the personal style and vision of then-creative director Hedi Slimane – someone I still massively respect and believe stands at the pinnacle of the fashion business.
Keen to expand my horizons, I’d visit department stores every week to learn more about different styles and also to add to my personal wardrobe collection. Over time, I got to know other big brands like Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton, and I ended up falling in love with them too, which is what clued me in on my long-term passion for fashion.
Tell us about the path to starting your own business, S.T Boutique.
Since I’d realised exactly how much fashion meant to me, after six years of studying in London, I chose to continue my education in the beautiful Italian city of Florence. I did a Business of Fashion degree there, and to cut a long story short, once I graduated I decided to move to Hong Kong, where in 2017 I fulfilled my dream of starting my own fashion business – S.T Boutique. It’s a trendy, high-end fashion resale enterprise, and I have two stores in Hong Kong and another huge flagship store in my hometown Wenzhou.
What sets S.T Boutique apart from the rest of your competitors?
I think the major difference between our retail operation and others is that we are extremely sensitive and attentive to market shifts. We often buy clothes that attract a much younger crowd, and this, in turn, allows us to generate sales and turnover extremely quickly.
In the old days, the majority of haute couture and high-fashion purchasers were in their 40s. Today, that’s shifted down to people in their 20s, and being flexible and adaptive to the needs of this new segment is a major focus for S.T Boutique. This means that my team and I spend hours doing research on the latest collections, viewing catwalks from various brands on YouTube, looking for reactions on other digital platforms… Basically we do everything we can to make sure we have our finger on the pulse of the latest trends, so we not only stock the most coveted items for this season, but will also have the same sought-after cache for the following seasons.
How has Covid-19 affected your business?
Honestly, like everyone else in the world, the pandemic has clearly had a negative impact on S.T Boutique. Our business relied on wealthy tourists, particularly from the mainland, and the global shutdown of travel has meant that we’re down 60-percent from where we were pre-Covid. Having said that, I always remind my team that it is during the times of greatest challenge that we need to put in that extra level of effort and enthusiasm. We need to believe that the blood, sweat and tears we invest now will yield big rewards once the pandemic passes.
Do you have plans to expand S.T Boutique this year?
We’re excited to launch two more locations in mainland China in the near future. The first store will be in Beijing – as the capital city that’s a no-brainer for our next outpost. The other will open in Chengdu, since I’ve always felt it’s such a vibrant place; in fact it’s one of my favourite cities in the world. The people there are so trendy and you can see the pleasure youngsters take in their trendy apparel on every street corner. It really is the fashion capital of western China, so S.T Boutique will fit right in.
Aside from S.T Boutique, do you have any other projects in the works?
Yes! A friend and I have just invested in a karaoke spot called Qian Gui along London’s Wardour Street [famous for its music scene], pretty much opposite the W Hotel. During my time as a student in the city, I loved to go to KTV with my pals, and I enjoy singing, so it felt like a natural investment for me.
How do you like to relax? Any hobbies?
I love playing ping pong or going for a round of golf to relax after work, and I’m always up for an occasional karaoke session as well. Since I love music, I also aim to hit the Lan Kwai Fong hotspots with my friends twice a month.
I’m an avid watch collector, too. I’m a major fan of Richard Mille since being introduced to the brand in 2017, and my favourite model is the all-white RM 055, because I love the colour white. I also love fast cars, and having lived in Italy for three years, I have a particular fondness for Lamborghinis. I own two, and my most treasured motor is the Lamborghini Urus, which I know is an unusual choice, but I much prefer SUVs to sports cars.
Which fashion brand has really kept up with the times over the last 10 years?
I would say Louis Vuitton. For many years, it was seen as being a super classic, formal brand. Yet, over the past decade, it has completely transformed into a maison with a much more global appeal. Part of the reason, I think, is that it made the brave decision to completely overhaul its business model to appeal to a much younger crowd, and that strategy yielded great rewards.
And what’s your favourite fashion trend of the past decade?
That would 100-percent be the pivot to less formal attire and streetwear. I absolutely loathe wearing suits and such, so this new embracing of streetwear as an expression of high fashion is, for me, the best trend to emerge in recent years.
Finally, tell us a secret about yourself.
Hmm… if it’s called a secret, I don’t think I should reveal it!
Interview by: Tenzing Thondup; Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Andy Wan; Venue: S.T Boutique
Oriental Fashion: Celebrate Chinese New Year with this capsule collection
How best to dress you and yours for a month of festivities? These sartorial looks are serving some high-fashion oriental inspiration that is worth getting behind… Don’t believe us? Just check out these absolutely gorgeous styles…
Look 1
On Her: Dress by Isabel Marant; Handbag and heels by Christian Louboutin On Him: Jacket and trousers by Dunhill; Shoes by Hugo Boss
Look 2
On Her: Loula dress by Renaissance Renaissance, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Pouch by Loewe; Heels by Salvatore Ferragamo On Him: Sweater, pants and shoes by Hermès
Look 3
On Her: Top, jacket, skirt and heels by Valentino On Him: Jacket, pants and shoes by Hugo Boss
Look 4
On Her: Coat dress, handbag and heels by Bottega Veneta On Him: Jacket, shorts and shoes by Hugo Boss
Look 5
Sweater, pants and loafers by Hermès
Look 6
On Her: Jacket, pants and heels by Valentino On Him: Jacket and pants by Hugo Boss; Shoes by Christian Louboutin
Look 7
On Her: Tiffani polka-dot tulle midi dress by Rebecca Vallance, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER On Him: Long jacket, pants and shoes by Valentino
Look 8
Earrings by Roger Vivier; Angelina long dress by Safiyaa, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Heels by Jimmy Choo
Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Female model: Sun YueChen (Synergy Model Management Limited); Male model: Wong He (Synergy Model Management Limited); Hair and Make-up: Heti Tsang and Owen Ko; Venue: Oriental Home
Step out in your finest winterwear with these soirée stylings
Hitting the mark on all levels of glam, edgy and irresistibly modern, these fashion winter styles will inspire your next party look and ensure you step out into your next big soirée with styles to turn heads and a wardrobe to impress.
Look 1
Earrings, bracelet, long jacket and boots by Loewe
Look 2
Earrings, and dress by Shiatzy Chen; Cross-body bag by Jimmy Choo; Heels by Dolce & Gabbana
Look 3
Ring and belt accessory by Roger Vivier; + NET SUSTAIN Beneventotie Together one-shoulder cutout maxi dress by ARTCLUB, Courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Heels by Jimmy Choo
Look 4
Earrings, necklace, gloves, fur wrap, corset, skirt, heels and bag by Gucci
Look 5
Turtleneck and pants by Dolce & Gabbana; Heels by Christian Louboutin
Look 6
Dress by Shiatzy Chen; Handbag by Christian Louboutin; Heels by Jimmy Choo
Look 7
Earrings, top, shirt and heels by Miu Miu
(Photographer: Jack Law Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma Videographer: Kes Lei and Jackie Chan; Model: Liza M (A1M Management Limited) Hair and Make Up: Owen Ko)
Razzle Dazzle: Flamboyant neon accessories
While the fifth wave might be dulling your social calendar highlights this month, your outfit does not have to be drab. Although a full-blown neon look might be a little loud to carry on a casual day, whether you’re staying indoors or opting to lunch with your girlfriend at a socially safe distance, these flamboyant neon accessories are just the right balance to boost your winter days…
Look 1
Cube Strass satin heeled mules by Roger Vivier; RV Strass Pendant velvet mini bag by Roger Vivier
Look 2
Matelassé Nappa leather shoulder bag by Miu Miu; Sequin handbag by Miu Miu; Tonya 70 heels by Jimmy Choo; Black pumps with crystal embellishments by Dolce & Gabbana
Look 3
Bryelle 85 ankle boots by Jimmy Choo; Spruce 100 pumps by Jimmy Choo; Averly 100 pumps by Jimmy Choo
Look 4
Loubgirl ankle-strap stiletto heels by Christian Louboutin; Elisa Baguette S handbag by Christian Louboutin
Look 5
Hot Chick pumps by Christian Louboutin; Broche Vivier Buckle Hairband in Velvet by Roger Vivier; Geta Mysore shoulder bag by Hermès
Look 6
Phone holder by Jimmy Choo; Amazona 19 square bag by Loewe; Eye Buckle leather belt by Shiatzy Chen; Elisa Baguette S handbag by Christian Louboutin
(Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Andy Wan)
Head to Toe: Starting 2022 with these elevated fashion styling ideas
Ensuring all eyes are on you this January is easy if you opt for one of these dazzlingly sweeping statements or perhaps topping your carefully curated ensemble with a winter headpiece to finish. All glances turn to you whether you’ve chosen to dress to the nines or pull it back with a casual day-chic outfit.
Big and boxy are beautiful. Slant towards a more modish attire in these fetching femininely masculine coats, blazers and wraps with standout shoulders. As seen on the runways of Dior, Versace and Isabel Marant, they impart a power play that modern women so richly deserve.
Nothing completes a winter ensemble quite like a long coat. Adding drama to your OOTD, a fierce new attitude to your stride, and warmth when you chill, overcoats that hover around the ankles are hands-down, show-stopping accoutrements.
Capes came back into fashion a few seasons ago and there’s no sign of them disappearing. Taking inspiration from Victorian royals, then elevating this outerwear trend with flowing elegance and flexible functionality, they are at their buoyant best on the runways of Gucci and Valentino.
As temperatures drop, focus on the very top with a winter headpiece that will be the talk of the party. Statement pieces from the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Burberry, Dior and Chanel turn heads, punctuating your ensemble with plenty of punch.
Retro Fashion: Timeless ensemble for a classic vintage look
Nothing really goes out of style in fashion — they only turn vintage.
Take for example a 80s inspired dress suit with an edgy side slit by Miu Miu for the power-forward modern woman or a classy yet snazzy disco- flashy jacket and trousers by Gucci… These snapshot-ready fashion styling ideas will jazz up your Instagram feed any time of the day.
Look 1
On Her
Earrings, cropped jacket, long skirt, handbag, thigh-high socks and heels by Miu Miu
On Him
Sweater, long jacket, trousers and shoes by Dolce & Gabbana
Look 2
On Her
Earrings by Gucci; Ruffled mesh-paneled mini dress by David Koma, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Bag by Miu Miu; Boots by Jimmy Choo
On Him
Sweater, pants, shoes by Loewe
Look 3
On Her
iPhone 13 in pink by Apple; Button-up shirt, jacket, trousers, handbag and heels by Gucci
On Him
iPhone 13 in white by Apple; Button-up shirt, jacket, pants and loafers by Gucci
Look 4
On Her
Jacket and trousers by Prada; Heels by Christian Louboutin
On Him
Button-up shirt, jacket, pants and shoes by Prada
Look 5
Jacket, pants and loafers by Gucci
Look 6
On Her
Dress by Gucci; Headband and handbag by Roger Vivier; Heels by Jimmy Choo
On Him
Jacket, long jacket, trousers and boots by Hermès;
Look 7
Long dress, chain belt and knee-high boots by Shiatzy Chen
Look 8
On Her
Cropped button-up shirt, cropped jacket and pants by Prada; Heels by Jimmy Choo
On Him
Turtleneck, long coat, trousers and shoes by Hermès
Featuring: iPhone 13 and iPad Pro by Apple (#ShotoniPhone13ProMax)
Look 9
On Her
iPhone 13 in red by Apple; Jacket and trousers by Shiatzy Chen; Heels by Jimmy Choo
On Him
iPhone 13 in blue by Apple; Turtleneck, vest, pants and shoes by Prada
Men’s jewellery is back in style – Top trends here!
The men’s jewellery renaissance is gaining momentum. The creative sartorial pursuits of fashion sensations like Harry Styles, Timothée Chalamet (Cartier’s new friend), Joe Jonas (Chopard’s bud) are to be thanked but back home, all credit goes to the champions of Mirror boy band for fueling the rage in Hong Kong circles.
From the past few seasons, we’re seeing boys in bling on fashion runways but the Spring 2022 collection of luxury houses, from Prada, Gucci, Versace to Ferrari and others, were all gleaming with gems… Below is our edit of the most fashionable men’s jewellery trends of the year. Notice the bling and the ring are getting voluminous in size.
In the photo: Fred Force 10 Collection; Bulgari B.Zero1 ring and Cartier bracelet; Tiffany & Co. T True ring and Maker’s narrow chain necklace; Gucci yellow-gold bracelet and ring with interlocking G
Adding stylish sartorial details to the typically minimalist gold ring and necklace, fine jewellery houses such as Fred, Chautmet, Gucci and Tiffany & Co. these classy collections elegant lines and a rich characteristic to accentuate the hands and wrists.
In the photo: Dior chain necklace; Givenchy chain necklace and lock bracelet; David Yurman chain bracelet
For a flashy number, chain necklaces take on a pared back and more sophisticated appeal than its longer, oscillating iterations. Whether you’re putting together a minimalist look or a modish ensemble, chains offer the perfect accent to any outfit.
In the photo: Vintage Cartier brooch and pin; Etro brooch; Maison Margiela brooch
Extravagant brooches and pins are making a fierce comeback. Fashioned on the red carpet by the likes of Timothée Chalamet and Regé-Jean Page, among many other A-listers are owning their softer sides and turning these traditionally feminine accessories into a unique statement piece for any black tie event.
In the photo: Pearl necklace by Éliou; Afternoon at the Ritz Pearl Story-ring by JLG
The preferred jewel of kings and pop-stars alike, are back in swag for men to don on any occasion. If a chain of pearls, de rigour for men in the 16th and 17th century feels a tad extra, the contemporary male can go the Harry Styles way – wearing minimalist, finest quality solitaire pearls for a subdued layer of style.
In the photo: Solitaire pearl on a gold chain; string of pearls Paradox collection by Arao
These natural wonders are often worn by the highest in royalty and if you’re looking for a place to start shopping – Mirabel Rosar’s sustainable and ethical jewellery outlet, Arao, curates modern yet timeless, gender fluid pieces. Her latest Paradox collection introduces two awe-inspiring lines – Sinag, a stunning single Keishi pearl in a 14k gold strand, and –Sikat, a classic string of pearls are a good place to start if you’re looking to make a statement.
In the photo: John Hardy black jade ring and beaded bracelets; Northern Sky rings by JLG; Messika titanium ring and bracelet; Harry Winston cuff-links and pendant necklace
Luxury jewellers the world over are pushing out sartorial creations that oozes style, character and the essence of joie de vivre. The Northern Sky Story-ring in elongated ice blue spinel by JLG and John Hardy’s dual black jade in sterling silver ring and beaded bracelets among other standouts by Messika and Harry Winston are case in point.
Going for Gold: Dazzling aureate accessories for the festive season
Go for gold this winter as you celebrate the festive season with a sparkling jeweled flair, courtesy of these aureate accessories just oozing with luxury and glamour. From Hermès Rouge lipstick collection to a brass mini bag with GG Supreme motif by Gucci and Jimmy Choo’s Avri 90 heels to a the elegant pair of Chainlink earrings by Loewe. Check out these sumptuous fashion accessories below…
Look 1
Rouge lipsticks by Hermès
Look 2
The One eau de Parfum by Dolce & Gabbana; Velvet Exotic Leather fragrance by Dolce & Gabbana; The One Gold perfume by Dolce & Gabbana
Look 3
Oversized Portobello tote by Mulberry; East West Amberley shoulder bag by Mulberry
Look 4
Brass mini bag with GG Supreme motif by Gucci; Rings in metal with gold finish and crystals by Gucci; Necklace with white and emerald crystals by Gucci
Look 5
Bon Bon mini bag by Jimmy Choo; Avri 90 heels by Jimmy Choo
Look 6
Chainlink earrings by Loewe; Shiny Endura Gold/Sand sunglasses by Loewe
(Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma;Videographer: Kes Lai)
Winter is Coming: Stylish pieces for mens winter fashion
Plummeting temperatures and December soirées call for crystals and embellishments, sharp tailoring, volume drama, oversized coats and monochromatic looks. Combing through the top trends this winter, here’s your tight edit of the warmest numbers – scroll below for some wearable style inspo…
Look 1
Trench coat, jacket, trousers and shoes by Bottega Veneta
Look 2
Sweater, shorts and high-cut sneakers by Loewe
Look 3
Button-up shirt, pants, layered balloon pants and white boots by DEMO
Look 4
Jacket, tank top, belt and trousers by Dolce & Gabbana; Shoes by Prada
Look 5
Turtleneck by Prada; Trench coat by Loewe; Cross-body bag by Balenciaga
Look 6
Jacket, necklace with pouch, cross-body bag and pants by Prada
Look 7
Button-up shirt, necklace, jacket, trousers and loafers by Gucci
Biggest winter fashion trends to follow right now!
It’s finally winters in Hong Kong and there’s nothing more mood uplifting than the seasonal trend guide we’ve put together for you. From punchy puffers to playful power suits, there are a plethora of fun options for a bold and bright winter dressing. Scroll below for Gafencu‘s picks of chic fashion trends that you will surely want to follow this colder season.
Fringe Movement
If there is one style that has survived the chopping board through the years, it would be fringe. From shaggy to fuzzy to down right sheer classy, these strips of oscillating details take its inspiration from ’20s flapper dresses and ’60s and ’70s fringe jackets, punctuating these modern edits with an edgier and more modish appeal.
Geometric Patterns
Geometric motifs are making its statement, from Versace and Louis Vuitton monograms to Penrose and fractal prints, these striking patterns are making all the waves and you’re going to want to catch it if you’re looking to stand out and make an impression.
Adding a much needed splash of colour to the traditionally earthy cool tones of winter garments, this year the highest of fashion authority are featuring shades of fuchsia, tangerine and emeralds and even Versace’s iconic black-and-yellow on their runways. Make no mistake, these coloured leather garments will have you setting the trend in your circles.
Bold Colours
The 2021-2022 winter colours scream bright, bold and beautiful, replacing last season’s sandstone and amber glow with a more striking brisk blue Mykonos Blue and illuminating yellow, among many more electrifying hues that are sure to turn heads.
