Menswear shoot with James Wong: TBT to 2021

 

Outtakes from a shoot with actor/model/personal trainer in Hong Kong, James Wong. Shot by French photographer Sami Alliott.

Stefano Ricci in Hong Kong: A Pinnacle of Ultra-Luxury Menswear at the top of The Ritz no less!

Stefano Ricci, the Florentine luxury powerhouse founded in 1972, is a fine example of Italian craftsmanship and opulent masculinity - when you enter their premises (at The Peninsula or The Ritz for example), there's none of that hushed, whispered quiet luxury that been trending over the past few months. Forget the humble brag, hit the slots with the elevated elegance, power player symbolism, and the dazzling accessories. 

Renowned for its exquisite menswear, accessories, and lifestyle offerings, the brand has cultivated a devoted following among the world’s most discerning elites. Its presence in Hong Kong, with two flagship boutiques - one at The Peninsula Hotel (opened 2018) and another at The Ritz-Carlton, ICC (opened 2024 - underscores its strategic importance in Asia’s luxury landscape.

But what makes the brand really interesting in Asia is the brand's early adoption of China - long before it was trendy to do so. The brand’s early entry into Greater China was sincerely... in a word, pioneering. Visionary Stefano Ricci opened its first store in Shanghai in 1993 (following initial explorations around 1991), when very few Western luxury names dared venture there. This bold move positioned it ahead of many peers, capitalizing on China’s rapid economic ascent. Until 2017, China was its largest market; post-pandemic, it has rebounded strongly, with steady sales growth amid a broader luxury recovery. In 2023, the company reported record revenues of €215 million (up 46%), with continued positive momentum into 2024, including a notable 3% year-on-year increase in China despite market challenges. Hong Kong serves as a vital gateway and showcase, blending local sophistication with international appeal.

In Hong Kong, the two locations exemplify the brand’s preference for iconic, ultra-luxe venues. The Peninsula boutique in Kowloon offers timeless elegance in the hotel’s prestigious arcade, while the sky-high Ritz-Carlton outpost on the 103rd floor delivers breathtaking views alongside refined collections. These sites are chosen for their proximity to high-net-worth clientele - captains of industry, VIPs, and global tastemakers - who appreciate discretion and unparalleled service. Hong Kong’s role as a fashion and finance hub amplifies Stefano Ricci’s impact, reinforcing its status as a symbol of success and refined power in the region.

What sets Stefano Ricci apart from many a flash in the pan, is its uncompromising commitment to quality. Its casual and ready-to-wear lines are top-tier, featuring the finest Italian fabrics - often sourced from historic mills like the acquired Antico Setificio Fiorentino (est. 1786) - with meticulous hand-finishing that ensures exceptional drape, durability, and comfort. Everything is 100% Made in Italy, blending tradition with innovation.

Accessories elevate the brand to stratospheric luxury. Crocodile leather - often Nubuck, matted, or Himalayan varieties - dominates, prized for its rarity, texture, and masculine allure. Other exotic skins and precious materials feature in bags, wallets, shoes, belts, and portfolios, frequently accented with ruthenium or gold hardware. A single crocodile piece can command tens of thousands of euros, embodying exclusivity and tactile excellence.

The brand enjoys critical acclaim for its flawless execution and cultural resonance. It is hailed as the tailor to the 0.001%, favored by powerful figures for its blend of Florentine artistry and global vision. Its ultra-luxe positioning - think hand-engraved details, limited editions, and bespoke services - transcends trends, offering heirloom-quality pieces that signal quiet confidence.

Stefano Ricci’s campaigns - a personal favourite - rank among the world’s best, particularly through the SR Explorer Project. These cinematic expeditions - spanning Iceland’s glaciers, the Galápagos, Mongolia’s steppes, India’s palaces, and Patagonia - highlight the brand’s nomadic spirit. They capture the modern Stefano Ricci man: dynamic, adventurous, and culturally attuned. By shooting in remote, awe-inspiring locations with masters like Steve McCurry and National Geographic photographers, the campaigns embrace international cultures while celebrating Italian heritage - drawing parallels between Renaissance Florence and ancient civilizations. This narrative of exploration, self-discovery (“Explore the world to explore ourselves”), and conservation adds depth, making the brand’s storytelling immersive and aspirational.

In Asia, in Hong Kong and beyond, Stefano Ricci represents more than fashion; it embodies a lifestyle of excellence, vision, and timeless sophistication. Its two landmark stores continue to thrive as temples to this ethos, drawing Asia’s elite while reinforcing the brand’s pioneering legacy in China. 

Credits:

Original photography: Dino Busch
Model: Taner S at Model One
MUA: Karen Yiu and co.
Location: Island Shangri-la, Hong Kong
Full look: Stefano Ricci 

Eurasian actor, model, DJ Tom Price answers the Robb Report Questionnaire

Throwback Thursday: Interview with Hong Kong actor/model/DJ/Graffiti Artist Tom Price. Reposted.  

All original photography by Natalie Dunn, other images provided by Tom.  

To kickstart the first fashion shoot for Robb Report Hong Kong, we knocked on the doors of… well, it’s the digital age, we DM’d the Instagram of multi-hyphenate Tom Price. Prolific touring DJ, Eurasian actor, and most importantly, dog-dad to Roxy, a gorgeous border collie.

Born and brought up in Hong Kong, of English and Chinese origin, the trilingual (Mandarin, Cantonese and English) Price fits into any mould you can carve him in. We needed someone who could balance a trapeze act, swing between the East and West (a novel idea natch) with equal ease, pull off a Tom Ford suit (which he’s modelled for in the past) and a surfboard with a studied nonchalance. We are all about contradictions like that.

Despite the fame and following (see how young girls titter in his presence), he’s got his priorities set straight. “Family, work, dog!” As its often been said before, the Price is right.

His film and television appearances are aplenty (feel free to Imdb), and many in the region will instantly recognise the chiseled jawline of the face that’s launched several ad campaigns and worked with many brands and designers of note. For the column, it was easy to grab him for this lengthy questionnaire – man was trapped in a gilded cage, i.e. stuck in quarantine hotel till the authorities deemed him eligible for freedom. “Staring at the sea and sunset while trapped inside – send me the q’s.” .

Ok then.

First thing you do in the morning?
Get some sunlight in my eyes! 

What in your wardrobe do you wear most often?
Probably my white low top Hermès sneakers I bought last year. Comfortable and great with any outfit. 

What do you most crave at the end of the day?
A good night's sleep.

What song is currently in your head?
I posted an insta reel recently using Mary J Blige - All Night Long... now It's stuck in my head. 

Tom Price with his constant companion Roxy

How do you find calm?
I find painting, surfing or hiking with my dog the best to unwind and just chill. Being out in nature is almost like a type of meditation I find. 

What’s the most recent thing you’ve added to your collection?
I collect vinyl records and have recently added some '90s hip hop gems as well as some fresh underground house and electro. I've recently added some fresh underground house and UKG too.

Where do you buy your clothes?
Everywhere and anywhere. 

What’s the most impressive dish you cook?
I make a killer stir fry... I think. 

Who is your dealer, and what do they source for you?
Bandcamp. Music is my drug.  

 

What is your exercise routine, and how often do you do it?
I try to find time for exercise daily. Gym, basketball, hiking and surfing are the most common. However, I'm a fan of all sports and will play anything. 

If you could learn a new skill, what would it be?
Another language would be fantastic. 

How much do you trust your gut instinct?
85%

 

Do you have a dream car?
Ferrari F50! Only 350 were ever made and I love the retro supercar vibe. 

Are you wearing a watch? How many do you own?
At the moment I own around 5 or 6 watches. 

Tell us about your favourite watch?
A gold and silver vintage Longines I bought from my buddy in Shanghai. Stylish without being too flashy. 

 

If you could stick at one age, what would it be, and why?
Probably the age I'm at now! 36. A mix of athletic ability and life experience. A few years less and I'm too young, a few years more and I won't be able to carve it up on the basketball court like I used to!

How would others describe your look?
Pretty average. 

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?
Hawaii would be nice. Waves during the day and stars at night. What more could you ask for?

What is your most treasured possession?
A pair of Technics SL1210 turntables a DJ friend gave to me before he passed away. 

What are you afraid of?
Not a huge fan of jellyfish.  

What is your vice?
Hong Kong style iced milk tea. Love that. 

Favorite restaurants in Hong Kong?
Probably Carbone. One of the best Italian restaurants here with a good vibe. For something more local, I would say Super Duper Noodles in Sai Wan Ho. Lives up to the name!

 

Wine or whiskey?
Whiskey. Scotch. Some personal favourites include Kilchoman and Lagavulin. Special mention goes to the Talisker 18-year single malt. Good for any occasion. 

Dream date on a yacht – where you sailing?
Hong Kong has hundreds of islands with all sorts of beaches, bays and coves that are easily accessible. It really is the perfect place for a yacht. There are a few prime spots that would definitely be date worthy. Bring a long a few bottles of champagne, add a clear night sky with a meteor shower and you’re set.

Last piece of advice you gave?
Only chickens accomplish something by sitting on their asses!

Prefer to drive or be driven?
Drive.

What is the car you are most attached to?
In my early twenties, I drove a BMW E30 convertible. Many fond memories. I'm a fan of vintage cars and this one is a bit of a classic.

Last Netflix binge?
Probably Squid Game 

As an actor what roles appeal to you?
I think every actor, including myself, would love roles that are well written and unique. Anything interesting really.

Were you a stage kid? Theatre prodigy?
I did a few school plays growing up in Hong Kong. I remember playing Sweeney Todd once which was fun. But it wasn't until my university years that I took acting seriously and decided to dedicate my life to it.

What’s your favourite neighbourhood in your favourite city?
Shek O Village, Hong Kong 

Bowie or Dylan?
Dylan is a Bonafide genius. But I'll have to go Bowie on this one.

See Robb Report Hong Kong's Autumn/Winter 2022 Fashion shoot at RobbReport.hk

Taner in a Tux at Island Shangri La Suite at The Island Shangri-La Hong Kong

Trust the process. Shooting in one of the most gorgeous suites in Hong Kong - the Shangri-La Suite at The Island Shangri-la in Hong Kong, was a bit iffy about taking the shot in the large bathtub in the largest private bathroom in the city. 

Pacing up and down like a lunatic, sent out panic smoke signals to frequent collaborator, photographer Dino Busch. The phrase trust the process came to mind. Once we all emptied the room, the final shot came through. Impeccably. 

Like I said, trust the process!  

Full look; Dunhill. 

In February 2024, at the National Portrait Gallery, a new chapter of Dunhill - now more than 130 years in - unfolded as Simon Holloway presented his debut collection for the Richemont-owned brand. As the latest creative director of Dunhill, Holloway didn’t just revitalise the polished British icon, he reinvented modern menswear for a contemporary market. Full feature in my Best of Style column. 

Photography: Dino Busch @dinobuschphotography

Stylist: Bhisan Rai @styledbybhisan

Hair and Make-up: Karen Yiu @karenyiumakeupart

Model: Taner from Model One @tanersc @modelonehk

 

The Goods column in Post Magazine

 

Things you find in old computers...  

My Post magazine menswear column, The Goods. Some of it archived here. 

Essentially, a menswear and accessories column on ... what's good. Key point, had to be easily available in Hong Kong for the readers/viewers of Post mag/SCMP! 

Mathew T strikes a pose - French photographer and friend Sami Alliot took the pics. 

Throwback Thursday: Stefano Ricci: The Best of Menswear

 

Stefano Ricci takes menswear to far-flung corners of the world. The latest campaign from the Italian master heads back to the origins. Events and campaigns shot in Egypt, Iceland, and now, their most ambitious project to date: a spring-summer 2024 campaign photographed in the Galápagos Islands, captured by Mattias Klum, famed Swedish photographer, artist, filmmaker, and National Geographic fellow. Colour us intrigued. 😎

UPDATE: As the website of RRHK has crashed and burned to the ground, I lost about... oh 300+ features and interviews and profiles and what not. Finding little snippets online and in the archive. 

Collab with Hugo Boss x Orlando Ho for Prestige, Hong Kong

 

 

Dino Busch did the photos for the magazine.

With Jason To, videographer, one of the best in the biz.

Dino's OK. ;0)

Interview and feature with Orlando Ho in the magazine. 

Special thanks to Avni and Avisha, who helped arrange location - Ovolo hotel. 

What to wear: Loro Piana

Photography: Dino Busch
Full look: Loro Piana
Model: James Wong
MUA: Gloomy Kwok

The Best of Menswear: Loro Piana

Fine knitwear begins and ends with Loro Piana, and—in full confession—the Italian house’s autumn-winter collection is continually superlative and worthy of being listed among the best of the very best. Had it not been for the attention brought on the brand by the stars of several popular television shows, Loro Piana, with no visible print or obvious logo, would have sailed quietly by the limelight, like two luxury yachts passing in the night.

However, this past year, the autumn-winter collection was a celebration of Loro Piana’s heritage, innovation, and expertise as eyes were guided to the homelands of Loro Piana’s key fibres: wool from New Zealand, cashmere from Mongolia, and vicuña from Peru. Loro Piana’s campaign is asking the world to travel again—in the lap of luxury. For the winter collection, the makers are clearly in a warm, celebratory mood. Coarsehair cashmere, shearling, baby cashmere, and Cashfur (cashmere with a hint of silk) are all embellished with handcrafted, intimate embroidery for a versatile, contemporary look that can be mixed and matched with any other piece in their wardrobe. Look at the comforting joggers, coats, and jackets—irrepressibly sensual, and made of the finest fabric.

Weekend Read: Hong Kong Brands to Know and Love: Mazu Resort Wear

Click to enlarge

Mazu Resortwear is a distinctive Hong Kong-based men's brand, which has expanded to include resort wear like Hawaiian shirts and versatile apparel since its inception back in 2013. The brand celebrates Asia's maritime heritage, particularly the iconic junk boats of Victoria Harbour and has been popular among beach and boat lovers for a good part of the decade. 

Founded by Adam Raby, the brand has endured for over a decade, navigating challenges while growing steadily. Adam Raby, a British Chinese former rugby player with a background in advertising and sports apparel, identified a market gap for luxury, Asian-inspired men's swimwear and resort wear. He launched Mazu to create "an Asian brand that people can be proud of," drawing inspiration from Hong Kong's rich seafaring history and the sea goddess Mazu. The brand name embodies this: "I am Mazu, and I am the sea," as poetic lines on the site evoke weathered junks awaiting voyages.

Raby has highlighted his vision and resilience over the years, reflecting on early skepticism: “If you look at that brand's history, there's nothing stopping Mazu Resortwear. Let's touch base again in 20 years. We're just getting started.” 

He noted spotting “a gap in the market for luxury, Asian-inspired men's swimwear,” and emphasized storytelling: “We are unique. People want an emotional connection.” On adaptation during tough times, he discussed sustainability and "sink-or-swim" agility, including eco-collaborations.

Mazu has proven popular and resilient in Asia's growing men's resort wear scene, once heavily female-skewed. Available in over 50 stores across 10 countries, it garners endorsements from celebrities, models like Ankie Beilke, and features in outlets like Tatler, Prestige, and SCMP. 

Worn by style setters and beach lovers, it builds a loyal #MazuCrew through quality and cultural resonance. As a Hong Kong brand, Mazu stands out for blending tradition with modernity—incorporating local motifs, traditional colours, and unique fabrics into pan-seasonal pieces. Its unique selling point lies in authentic storytelling: designs pay homage to maritime elements like junk boats (e.g., Junk Twilight Hawaiian Shirt in 100% rayon or Midnight Junks from recycled PET bottles), with signature details such as monkey fist knot buttons, camp collars, double-needle stitching, drainage eyelets, and handcrafted gilded aglets. 

Even before it was trend speak, Raby endorsed the idea of sustainability, and it shines through recycled materials and partnerships. What's new includes eco-focused collections (e.g., recycled swim shorts) and expansions beyond swimwear to Hawaiian shirts and versatile apparel, emphasizing quick-dry, breathable, unisex pieces suitable for yoga, hikes, or beach days.

Contemporaries in Hong Kong/Asian resort wear include brands like Mint Escape (mix-and-match separates), Transcend (ocean-conserving), Black Coral (feminine beachy pieces), or broader names like Gourami. Globally, it aligns with luxury swim/resort labels but carves a niche with its Hong Kong-specific nautical narrative.

T-shirt by Mazu

Over a decade strong, Mazu thrives by offering emotional, culturally rooted luxury in a competitive space—proving Raby's early optimism right as it continues making waves. Flash int he pan labels and brands come and go, decade plus in, Mazu proves good things last and passion endures. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MAZU RESORTWEAR (@mazuresortwear)

Inside The Pedder Arcade, an Elevated Retail Space For Distinguished Menswear

A dream realised, menswear and real estate never looked so damned good.
Deputy Editor P.Ramakrishnan writes. 

Images can be deceptive, and the photos sent to us of The Pedder Arcade look like set pieces of a film based in New York (Woody Allen’s Manhattan comes to mind)—the elongated ink-blue metallic arches, the high ceilings, and the stellar view of skyscrapers with billboards of American stars peddling the latest threads from designer brands all scream sophistication.

Except, of course, it’s not New York City—it’s the new retail haven in the heart of Central, on the fifth floor of the Beaux-Arts-style Pedder Building. From top to toe, the newly opened Pedder Arcade exudes white-glove perfection and debonair flair.

Mark Cho and Alan See, the always precisely dressed gentlemen behind The Armoury, had a fevered pandemic dream about creating a venue above the madding crowd in a legendary building built on fame. The Pedder Building has such a storied history to boot. For 17 incredible years, it was the legendary home of Shanghai Tang—the epitome of retro chinoiserie-chic powered by the force of nature that was David Tang. Over the years, several art galleries found sanctuary in the historical location. 

Later came the dark ages—2012 to 2016—when the first four storeys transformed into a McMansion reeking of Abercrombie & Fitch’s cloying perfume and its parade of semi-clad men sold a coastal collegiate-inspired wardrobe, a travesty of taste. When the shutters came down, the vacant lot stayed an empty shell, haunted by memories of days gone by. Remember when the China Tee Club was the place for luncheons in the 1980s, when royals, first ladies, and the well-heeled came to shop as their chauffeured cars drove around in circles? Without a resident in site, the Pedder Building became famed for pop-ups galore—until now. 

As the absolute antithesis of fast fashion, a refuge of eternal style has been unveiled at the stylish space now newly named The Pedder Arcade. Under the perfect symmetry of the arches in the long corridor, you will find fine fabrication, bespoke suiting, a coffee and whisky lounge, haute horology (Phillips Perpetual is offering rare sales of hard-to-find, exquisite collectibles), and more. Awaiting a liquor license, there’s a well-stocked bar smack-dab in the middle of the space; eventually, you’ll be able to get a decent shot of whisky (although its collection of rare Champagne is second to none) and a slice of nirvana.

We had great expectation from the duo, especially when we heard that Cho had parted with over 60 prized pieces from his coveted timepiece collection to fund part of this dream project and expand The Armoury. It was not just the usual suspects under hammer, either; from Calatravas, one with a Clous de Paris bezel among them, and Breguet Classiques, to a trifecta of Grand Seikos and a breathtaking Ronde de Cartier from the Collection Privée. One simply does not part with such rarities on a whim, but with purpose and intention. 

“Indeed, quite a bit of the money [from the sales] went towards this project, as well as upgrades to the Armoury shops in New York,” Cho tells Robb Report Hong Kong as we congratulate him on the success of his stellar auction. “The auction went well and I actually gifted everyone who bought a watch at auction a jacket as well. It was a really great way to meet the new owners and I made some nice new friends, too.”

Building on a greater dream, he parted ways with his storied timepieces and went knocking on the doors of frequent collaborator Katherine Wong. She, of the eponymous design firm, who also worked with the boys on earlier iterations of The Armoury, was familiar with the beats of expectation: to create a retail space inspired by English shopping arcades. “I drew ideas from a lot of European architectural elements to develop the idea [and] the design was also greatly influenced by the history of the Pedder Building, being the last pre-war building on the block,” says Wong. “The beautiful arch windows located on this level and extremely high ceilings also steered the course towards the final design. I always try as best as possible to preserve and respect the existing structure and integrity of the building; wherever possible, I always expose existing beams and columns that reflect the history of the pre-war era.”

Despite facing Landmark and looking into the windows of buildings sandwiched together on every side, there’s plenty of natural light streaming in, tanning the stained oak veneer. “I worked closely with the contractor and factory on specifying the random pattern of the veneer to make sure it created the most natural layout on the façades. I chose a wood stain that was more of a medium cappuccino brown so that it is not too dark and gives off a golden glow when the sun hits it, creating an ambience that is pleasantly warm.” 

What the colour scheme creates is a warm and austere elegance that acts as a blank canvas for the finely curated menswear. For anyone familiar with the sophisticated hues and patterns of The Armoury, the wall-to-wall selection in the offering is filled with European names and stellar brands uncommon in the sartorial vernacular: we find Nigel Cabourn (a British brand inspired by history and vintage military wear) and Drumhor (established since 1770 with a legacy rooted in the Scottish Highlands; look for the signature “razorblade” pattern). In collaboration with Drapers, Atelier Pedder gives space to The Armoury’s favourite fabric mills and merchants to artfully display their wears and tears. 

“We have a Merchant Fox (Fox Brothers) takeover of the Atelier Pedder soon,” chimes in Alan See via email, who is travelling for work and wedding. (It comes as no surprise that many get their groomsmen’s suits and groomed look under this blessed roof.) “We are also in the process of populating our walls with [art]works from Mr Slowboy (Fei Wang). Other than that, we have a few exciting items in the works, but too soon to let you know.” 

What the dapper gent enjoys about the careful curation is the boys-to-men range of distinguished drapers they’ve introduced to the city. In the past, Cho put his arms around, and often into, Cohérence overcoats, Caruso cashmere-and-silk sweaters, and, of course, he owns and champions Drake’s. Vitale Barberis Canonico cloth doesn’t just roll off the tongue as easily as, say, Tom Ford, but Cho deep-dives into historical brands with a story, a legacy, and a unifying standard of excellence. Of his selections, “these are all brands that I personally trust and interact with on a regular basis,” says Cho as we walk down the oblong corridor. “Some of them have a great deal of Hong Kong exposure, such as Phillips, but others such as Nigel Cabourn and Drumohr deserve greater recognition for the excellent products they make. We tend to get customers who care about what they’re buying; they want to know the story of the product and how it was made. People who know great products tend to be our regulars.”

When asked whether the design had a private-club, “alpha-male” patina, the architect and designer counters with, “I don’t think I specifically design with a masculine vibe in mind, but as I was designing the Armoury store at the same time, the parallels between the two designs do shine through. I also knew that Mark would like the floor to have a coherent group of tenants so I wanted to make sure it would be a design that was consistent with that vision. I drew a lot of inspiration from the European modern era with characteristics like strong, bold lines; these tend to feel more masculine as many were designed by male architects.” 

The Pedder Arcade’s vibe isn’t a forbidding “you many not sit with us” elitism, but more of a safe haven above the din of a busy business district. “Being in the heart of Central amongst the hustle and bustle, I think people need a quiet sanctuary to clear their minds and souls, hence I did take inspiration from the chaos below to create a space that is the opposite of what is downstairs,” says Wong. “One reason why Hongkongers love to travel to Europe for vacation is to have a break from the chaotic life, to be able to walk around in small, quaint towns with winding alleys to discover those quirky and unique little shops that sell uncommon things—this is the feeling we are trying to create in The Pedder Arcade.” 

In buying art, you’ve heard repeatedly to only buy what you love; the philosophy transfers to menswear, too. “It’s hard to wear things you don’t love. It’s also impossible to look great in clothes you are not comfortable in,” says Cho, who gives sound advice to aspiring gents who want to dress the part. “Start with staples to build your knowledge and experience. Don’t go to extremes in terms of fit. Learn to pay attention to silhouette, colour, and texture. Style can be taught. It’s something that you learn and grow into. Money helps in that it allows you to try a lot of different things quickly, but buying too many things can be counterproductive, too, because you never dwell on an item or an idea for long enough to fully appreciate it.”

We at Robb Report Hong Kong were privy to a first look long before the construction was complete and the paint had dried, and were suitably enamoured from the get-go of the lengthy edifice and the carved niche and the iconography that was being built. When you walk in, start at The Armoury on your right to riffle through tailored sport coats or semi-tailored safari jackets as a first pick, move onto Drumohr for fine knitwear for layering, check out the selection of watches at Phillips, broaden your casualwear horizon with Nigel Cabourn’s military-inspired designs, “and then finish with a slow, quiet drink at the Study.” 

“How about two drinks with a view?”

Done.

Originally published
December 8, 2023

The Armoury in Central, Hong Kong, with Model One's resident supermodel Taner S

 

Suit Up! 

 Brunello Cucinelli, Ralph Lauren (Purple label!), Hermès, Tom Ford, Loro Piana are just regulars in the column. But over the past two years, I seem to have written the most about The Armoury, esp the Central branch in Hong Kong [have yet to visit its New Yorkian avatar!]. Would love to do a shoot on location there, high ceilings, natural light, the arches, the controlled environs, the cityscape, to be in the heart and chaos of Central and yet be above it all, far from the madding crowd. One fine day...

Another day, another year, another shoot with Hong Kong's resident Turkish super-duper-model, Taner S. The fittings pre-shoot were a breeze. 

Oh to be sample size... 

15 Years of the Finest in Menswear: Mark Cho of The Armoury in Hong Kong and Mats Klingberg of Trunk Clothiers.

 

Gentlemen Prefer Bonds 

Mark Cho and Mats Klinberg’s discuss 15-years of timeless menswear wisdom, forged over Hong Kong coffees. 

On a rain-lashed morning in Hong Kong, Mark Cho, co-founder of The Armoury, welcomed Mats Klingberg, the visionary behind Trunk Clothiers, into his Pedder Street flagship. Take-away coffees in hand, the two arbiters of refined taste—each marking 15 years since launching their respective ventures—settled into a corner of the atelier-like space amid rails of Neapolitan tailoring, Japanese selvedge denim, and shelves of artisanal accessories. 

What began as a serendipitous reunion blossomed into a candid dialogue on enduring style, customer psychology, and the quiet art of building legacies in an industry prone to fleeting trends. Cho, ever the pragmatic aesthete with transatlantic reach from New York to Hong Kong, and Klinberg, the empathetic curator with intimate outposts in London and Zurich, revealed shared philosophies tempered by distinct geographies and personal evolutions. 

Their conversation, moderated by yours truly, offered rare insight into the minds steering two of the world’s most respected independent menswear destinations—destinations that have become more than shops, but trusted confidants in the lifelong pursuit of refined self-presentation. My first question, "Congratulations on 15 years each. You’ve both survived an era of fast fashion, digital disruption, and global upheaval. What have you learnt about men and how they dress—and about sustaining a business in this capricious trade?"

Full feature out now at Elite Traveler. 

Throwback Thursday: Outtake from a cover shoot for Runway magazine

 

The Secrets of How Men Dress, by Two Who Know

For 15 years, Mark Cho and Mats Klingberg have run two of the best clothing stores for men. Here the two founders discuss why clothes matter, what makes them proud and special-occasion dressing.

Read the entire feature here at Elite Traveller.

Stefano Ricci in Hong Kong:

 

Stefano Ricci menswear in Hong Kong is for the... 1 percent. Diamond encrusted belts, cashmere jackets... 

Cover story of the week. 

Taner in classic Berluti

Berluti accessories shine under the spotlight perhaps a tad more than its refined menswear. After all, Berluti is famed for its leather finishings, so gorgeously presented in a vast collection of shoes, boots, belts, and bags. Established in 1895 by Alessandro Berluti, the brand is based in Paris and under the LVMH umbrella.

With materials as varied as calfskin, kangaroo leather, and alligator skin, perhaps the bespoke suit jackets and ready-to-wear garments don’t get as much love in the press as the accessories do. Well, let’s change that. We are all in for this sophisticated look from Berluti, featuring a Scritto double-face jacket in pebbles grey with matching trousers and an Alessandro shirt in cold night blue. Nothing screams money—it whispers.

Photography: Dino Busch

Stylist: Bhisan Rai

Location: Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong

Hair and Make-up: Karen Yiu

Make-up assistant: Bonnie Cheung

Styling assistant: Galvin Chi

Model: Taner from Model One

Read the entire feature with the full list of the Best of Style--particularly in menswear--here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

 

Taner in Loro Piana for Robb Report Hong Kong

Outtakes from the fashion shoot. On him: Loro Piana full look, Montblanc watch.

Location: Lobby Lounge, Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong

Best in Style: 

CRAFTSMANSHIP

LORO PIANA

Loro Piana has forever been a living contradiction. A brand that screams quiet luxury, it embodies such exquisite refinement while showcasing a seemingly indiscriminate abundance of cashmere and extra-fine wool in its timeless garments. Loro Piana has seamlessly introduced vicu.a into the fashion lexicon, a term that has been the preserve of the elite for decades.

Little is disclosed regarding the designers behind Loro Piana’s creations, or the specific timelines of releases. Instead, we find ourselves captivated by the craftsmanship, scrutinising the sheer perfection of each piece, like the complete ensemble on display on this page. Loro Piana’s Eliott blouson in saffron tea presents a short and contemporary silhouette, serving as a modern interpretation of the biker jacket. Expertly crafted from refined linen and silk, this innovative fabric features three layers, united by a weatherproofing Storm System membrane at its core. Its outer layers are composed of linen and silk, while the interior boasts Antigua linen, and the raglan sleeves and generously sized patch pockets enhance the garment’s sense of ease and comfort.

Complementing this is the Gift of Kings crewneck, exemplifying exquisite craftsmanship through a regular-fit jumper fashioned from impeccably refined wool yarn. Its double-knit technique artfully juxtaposes the tonalities of the front and back, creating a distinctive and sophisticated aesthetic that is equally suited for both business and leisure. Paired with the Como trousers, the look showcases the maison’s adeptness at elevating even the most relaxed designs. Cut from jersey cotton with a substantial drape and an ultra-soft fleece interior, these trousers prioritise comfort without compromising style. Featuring a knitted waistband with an inner drawstring for an impeccable fit, alongside elasticated ankles to retain warmth, they epitomise Loro Piana’s dedication to both luxury and functionality.

Photography: Dino Busch

Stylist: Bhisan Rai

Location: Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong

Hair and Make-up: Karen Yiu

Make-up assistant: Bonnie Cheung

Styling assistant: Galvin Chi

Model: Taner from Model One

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

 

Christian Louboutin Unveils his New Sartorial Footwear Line in Paris

Louboutin puts his heart and sole into the latest collection for men.

In the heart of Paris, during Men’s Fashion Week, Christian Louboutin unveiled his latest Sartorial line—no, not menswear; Louboutin is not charting that far off course, but he has launched pairs of shoes that perfectly complete a man’s wardrobe. With the same exacting style he once reserved for women’s accessories, his latest line, meticulously crafted, is just for the gents, and they all sport the same signature blood-red sole. His enchanting showcase took place within the opulent salons of the Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel, where history and modernity coalesce, providing the perfect backdrop for an exploration of craftsmanship and innovation in men’s footwear—something we’ve been shedding light on for years.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Best of Style: 2025: Best of the Best by Robb Report Hong Kong

 

Shot at the Summer Palace in Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong, this full look by Shanghai Tang ended up being one of the best shots in the issue. Mad rush to do the shot before the arrival of lunch guests, had no idea, it'll all come together so well. 

The usual suspects made the cut in menswear, Dior, Bottega, Ferragamo, Ralph Lauren, Loro Piana etc, but really wanted a Hong Kong/Asian angle. Luckily there's always a Mandarin collar at Shanghai Tang - or as its known in my neck of the woods; the Nehru collar! 😉 

There's a behind the scenes video that'll be up soon at RobbReport.HK 😎 

FYI: I had a dream team on the day of course; Photography: Dino Busch @dinobuschphotography 

Stylist: Bhisan Rai @styledbybhisan 

Hair and Make-up: Karen Yiu @karenyiumakeupart 

Model: Taner from Model One @tanersc @modelonehk