Random Thoughts on Hong Kong Style ... UPDATED!

Dear YLF Ladies,

Hello from sunny (and sweaty) Hong Kong! :) I have been here for about two weeks (hence my lack of YLF-ing until I could find an internet friendly computer) and I have made a few observations. I carefully read up on HK street style before I went and thought that I could get by with the things I normally wear; you know, a bit funky and a bit classic all mixed together with adjustments made for the heat.

Things that are really in:
- Booties and boots (even in +30 C weather!)
- Lace on EVERYTHING (including cell phone cases)
- An 'it' bag (LV seems to be a popular choice)
- A 'gear' bag (in the same outfit; Le SportSac is popular)
- Patterned tights (often with boots)
- Short skirts (on everyone; including ladies > 50 y.o.)
- Sweaters, cardigans, windbreakers (in +30!)

Things that are out:
- Bare shoulders. No sleeveless ANYTHING. Or else you look weird.

I don't think I took into account the parts of HK I would be going to. My family is from a diverse background; so there are days where I have to go to the wealthier parts of the city (where tourists usually go) and there are times where I go to the poorer districts. There is a huge contrast. I don't think I am appropriately dressing (no matter what I wear) for either of these places.

In the rich areas: people are commenting that my purse isn't really an "it" brand (I am carrying my cross-body Fossil; and they don't recognize Fossil as a brand around here); and people lament my short nails (still haven't grown out from work!) - also, the gel pads in my pumps have melted from the heat, so my feet are killing me - I don't fit the shoes here, so I am quite grumpy with sore feet :)

In the poorer areas: people clearly can tell I am not from their area because of the same things that separate me from the wealthy areas - no one carries a leather purse, or has a nice watch. It makes me feel a little weird; but I do speak the language, so no one has really tried to rip me off (yet) - also, my iPhone sticks out like a sore thumb. People around here use Android phones most commonly.

I miss the fall and my leather boots - although if I had brought them, my feet would be dying from sweat although I'd be super trendy! Also, young women love sticking their cellular phones and a thin wallet into their boots so they don't have to carry a purse/clutch. I find this bizzare.

Much love,
Lyn

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