The streets are alive with fashion. A woman wearing skinny jeans over converse sneakers walks by – maybe the fifth example of this new look that I’ve seen in as many minutes. Right behind her is another wearing riding boots over skinnies (the look I had expected), paired with a bubble tunic. I’m surrounded by artful combinations of skirts and shorts with trendy boots. And with the cool temperatures, few people are passing up the opportunity to took ultra-chic in their trusty trenches. I’m back in Hong Kong and I love it!

It’s here that you’ll see men and women on the streets effortlessly adopting catwalk fashion trends with confidence and comfort. This is not to say that people aren’t casually dressed – they are, but oozing with style all the same. And not all dressed to the hilt in high-price designer wear either – everyday brands, local brands and treasures sold from hawkers on the street are equally popular. Dressing well is part of the culture, and shopping is a national pastime.

And the shopping! To say that Hong Kong is a shopping paradise is a gross understatement. Virtually every international brand and retail chain store is represented in this crowded and compact city, but fancier and with a better assortment. The Nine West store boasts a variety that I have never seen in the United States; and the party wear in British chain store Marks & Spencer is more elaborate then you’ll ever see in England.

I lived in Hong Kong for many years, and I return regularly. Each time I do I’m blown away by the incredible abundance of fashion coupled with a population that wears it with style every day.

Fancy, festive Nine West window in Harbour City, Hong Kong.

A trench coat is a lightweight single or double breasted, belted coat which had the original purpose of being water resistant. The house of Burberry created them; and the very first styles that were manufactured are not unlike the classic camel style that they still sell today.

Trench coats come in a dizzying array of colours, fabrics and style detailing – and they don’t need to be Burberry to be stylish. Their lightweight quality makes them ideal for milder climates, cool evenings and transitional seasonal weather.

Trenches can be:

• Smart casual – when made of cotton twill and paired with denim, a fun T, fashion sneakers and a messenger bag.
• Business casual – when made of better-end combed cotton twill and paired with slacks, a collared shirt, cardigan, heels and oversized tote.
• Formal – when made of a shiny fabric and popped over a cocktail dress and matched with hose, heels and a small clutch bag.

Single breasted trench coats will flatter all body types, while double breasted styles are a little trickier. Trench coats can often feel bulky simply because they’ve been made with too much fabric. Be mindful of this and select a style that is structured and lies close to your body.

A trusty trench is a must in any woman’s wardrobe – this timeless piece will never let you down!

The Burberry classic and two modern alternatives from Carmen Marc Valvo (Saks Fifth Avenue) and Calvin Klein (Macy’s).

We’ve all been caught with nothing to wear at some point or another. It’s immensely frustrating to be rushing around at the last minute trying to piece together an outfit for a fabulous bash. The simple solution is to keep a few fairly classic dressy basics in your wardrobe. That way you’ll be spared from disappointing shopping sprees, and prepared for last-minute invitations. 

Dressy basics to keep on hand:

• Little cocktail dress which doesn’t need to be black.
• Beaded top that you can wear with slacks, a skirt or a suit.
• Dressy pants in either satin, crepe or velvet.
• Dressy skirt that’s preferably a-line and knee length for maximum versatility, in either taffeta or raw silk.
• Dressy shoes in mule, sandal or sling-back.
• Perfect clutch that’s small and says something about your personality.
• Dressy wrap that’s a similar fabric weight to the dress or top it will accompany.

The next time you shop and fall in love with dressy items that you think you won’t need – think again.  Build a capsule of dressy items over time and don’t get caught! This can be cost effective, organized and less stressful in the long run.

Grace Kelly-inspired little black dress and fancy satin sling-backs from Bloomingdales.

Gold clutch from Nordstrom.

The snap bag is the alternative to the dainty clutch this party season. It gets its name from the fact that it has a “snap clasp” – rather like the purse your grandmother probably had many years ago.  This stunning little boxy framed accessory is just big enough to hold essentials like your lipstick, keys, cell phone and some cash. It will instantly freshen up any existing cocktail dress or dressy ensemble in your wardrobe. After all, it’s so simple to make a maximum style statement with the power of accessories.

A simple snap bag from Macy’s (top left) and more elaborate alternatives from Dillards and Nordstrom.