In terms of getting a 'theme' for this shoot with Tania (yes, planning does occur), city chic seemed somewhat of a lazy idea. The very fact that Hong Kong, itself, is a diverse city needs no introduction; not exactly in a multi-racial perspective, it's not, but because it's a meeting-point with its Far East roots and Western influences. I often wonder what people would describe the style of this era, the so-called 'Noughties' which I've just learnt the name of, because what exactly defines this era? Skinny jeans? Floral shirts? Snapbacks? And the very fact that it took me time to even pin-point what exactly we do for our era means that I probably am so sub-conscious of what I, and many, do for this era day-to-day.

What came together was a blend of tropical colours, with Hong Kong historic temple garden parks and modern trucks to serve as backdrops; Tania wore a maxi dress with wedges and I wore a bomber jacket inside a tuxedo. It's tricksy formal, without the possibility of satisfying one of the many Noughties trends: "sport chic"(unless switched with tuxedo cycling jerseys, google up). This goes hand-in-hand with the character of Hong Kong - an eccentric mash-up/ combination of 'everything'. The very fact that Hong Kong was a British Colony made it become the place it is today - where I often find the differences between the vibrant Soho district and other parts of the New Territories staggeringly different. It's weird but, strangely, a comforting beautiful clash. The differences between these places and people simply co-exist to make it the "fragrant harbour". And nobody really complains about this city because it's simply one of those places where there's a bit of everything, for everyone. 

Photos by Jannah Velma Noir

:: Outfit details ::

Tuxedo - Topman

Jacket - Zara

Sandals - Giuseppe Zanotti

To be continued…#tbc