Hong Kong is obviously an international city with influences from cultures near and far seen in ways big and small. That also means that it’s very easy to get trapped in big shopping malls browsing international brand names rather than really checking out the local scene.
That’s why it’s time to switch the limelight on for some of the best local Hong Kong designers, whose pieces are perfect for rocking on the daily or as memorabilia of this city.
Goods Of Desire (G.O.D.)
The acronym being very close to “living better” in Cantonese, this born-and-bred local brand is one that definitely needs a mention on this list even though it’s not exactly a designer brand.
Inside their very Hong Kong stores around town, you’ll find punny shirts (cue Delay No More), fun home accessories, as well as retro prints and gifts that make perfect non-cheesy souvenirs.
Address: 48 Hollywood Rd,Central, Hong Kong
Contact: +852 2805 1876
Novelty Lane
Looking for a place that truly represents unique Hong Kong fashion? Novelty Lane is you’re your one-stop destination for all things local designers. Often stocking up-and-coming stars in the local fashion scene, you’ll find racks and racks of unique designs that don’t scream 852, but are in actual fact, designed right here in this city.
They stock a few staple designers, as well a carousel of new collections from different brands periodically, so it’s always a different find everytime you visit!
Address: 2/F, 106 Johnston Road, Wan Chai
Contact: +852 2433 6522
Mountain Yam
Truly a brand that blossomed into a business, Mountain Yam has not just two clothing lines, one physically present in its own boutique, but also co-own a lifestyle concept store with fellow designer Kenax Leung.
Sometimes truly artistic fashion can be a bit unapproachable, but I think the reason why 112 Mountain Yam (the ready-to-wear line) rose to popularity is exactly because it treads skillfully on the line of design and practicality.
Address: Shop H-218, H.A.N.D.S, Yau Oi Road, Tuen Mun
Contact: +852 2385 0899
SAU
Moving our attention swiftly along to the more western and elegant influences, SAU is a recently popular fashion label started by UCLA graduate Cheryl Leung. After sharpening her tools working in Lane Crawford for two years, her first project proves to be a success.
Her delicate and feminine designs win with their strikingly flattering silhouettes, and her collection caters to both formal occasions and casual daily wears.
Address: Shop H310, Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central
Jourden
Where’s the REAL fashion, you demanded. Fine – if by real fashion you mean pieces that are closer towards avant garde, high fashion, and (insert a few other adjectives for international designer labels), then I highly recommend you check out Jourden.
Probably a lot less ready-to-wear, at least in my eyes, Jourden rose to popularity really quick in both the local and international fashion scene with its great use of texture to create these oversized silhouettes.
To be honest, Jourden really is rather aimed at an international fashion market and not quite local in the ways the brands listed above are – so, apples and oranges really.
A third culture kid in Hong Kong, Karen loves to explore cities one bite at a time, preferably also with a glass of wine. A fashion blogger turned lifestyle writer, you’ll find her reading digital marketing books, refreshing her socials and looking for the next new restaurant to try.