TBT: Helena Chan for The 9th Muse

 

THE9THMUSE : TWELVEoTWO 

BY THE9THMUSE 

DEBUT COLLECTION LAUNCH 

with Helena Chan.

Throwback Thursady: Things ya find in the archive! 

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. 

PAÑPURI: Elevating Scent to Artisanal Wellness in Hong Kong:

Since opening its first international flagship at K11 MUSEA in Tsim Sha Tsui in August 2024, PAÑPURI has expanded with sensorial boutiques at ifc mall (Central) and Harbour City. These elegant spaces offer an immersive experience far beyond conventional fragrance retail. I went down there to experience the multitude of novel scents. And sensibility. It's... in a word... divine. 

PAÑPURI stands in a league of its own - comparable only to the most revered names in niche perfumery and wellness, such as high-end artisanal houses that prioritise heritage, purity, and multi-sensory rituals. Rooted in ancient Thai traditions of oil craftsmanship and ancestral healing practices, the brand transforms pure botanicals into profound olfactory experiences.

For those of Asian and Hindu heritage who have wandered through ancient temples across the region, certain fragrances carry an irresistible pull. Encapsulated in beautifully refined bottles at the IFC store are familiar scents - distilled essences of jasmine, frangipani, and Tulsi - aromas so pure and evocative that they transcend time.  Some are so mesmerising that a single breath can transport you instantly back to sacred ceremonies, to half-remembered rituals and perhaps even to past lives. Scent remains one of the most powerful portals, capable of carrying us back to forgotten eras with startling clarity.  I was utterly captivated by one such jasmine elixir in particular - its delicate, luminous aroma held within the bottle like liquid memory, offering a direct sensorial journey through time.

What sets PAÑPURI apart is its unwavering commitment to natural purity and ethical formulation. PAÑPURI adheres to its rigorous ZeroList™, which bans over 7,200 harmful or questionable ingredients. Products are vegan, cruelty-free, free from animal-derived components, microplastics, and synthetic irritants. Instead of alcohol bases that can dry or irritate the skin, they often use nourishing natural oils such as moringa. Ingredients are hand-picked from sustainable sources across Asia and beyond - Thai botanicals, rare absolutes like Bulgarian rose, and responsibly harvested essences - ensuring exceptional quality and environmental respect.

This natural ethos shines through in their EXTRACT Perfume Oils, highly concentrated (25-30%) alcohol-free pure perfume extracts. These deliver superior longevity and skin-friendliness compared to traditional alcohol-based colognes, Eau de Parfums, or perfumes, which often rely on synthetic chemicals, fixatives, and potential allergens. 

PAÑPURI’s oils blend seamlessly with the skin’s natural chemistry for an intimate, evolving scent that feels personal and therapeutic rather than overpowering. Mass-market fragrances laden with questionable synthetics are cheaper - deliberately so - and cause harm in the long run. PAÑPURI offers a safer, more luxurious alternative that nurtures body and spirit.

Latest and Signature Scents highlight the brand’s sensory storytelling. Andaman Sails, a standout best-seller and crowd favourite, captures the essence of emerald waves and endless summers with uplifting bergamot, crisp green tea, nutmeg, and grounding sandalwood. Available across body care, candles, diffusers, and solid perfume balms, it evokes serene coastal escapes. 

Other popular profiles include Siamese Water, Indochine, Eternal Sunshine, Oolong Ritual, along with newer offerings such as Memoria Mimosa, Peony Absolute, Enlightened Berry, and Figtionalism.

Collections like “Journey to the Peak” and limited editions (including Hong Kong-specific Extract Perfume Oils) keep the range fresh and culturally resonant. A Bespoke Sensorial Bar allows customisation with over 40 notes and rare essences.

Best-sellers in Hong Kong mirror global favourites: Andaman Sails leads for its versatile freshness, followed by warming orientals and lush florals. Home scents (ambience diffusers, candles, sachets) and body rituals (oils, lotions, cleansers) perform strongly, perfect for creating personal sanctuaries. 

Accessible luxury in its truest sense, the Extract Oils offer outstanding value given their concentration and quality. Choosing PAÑPURI over conventional colognes and perfumes is an act of self-care, its natural, clean formulations minimise risks while maximising sensory pleasure and wellness benefits. Whether layering  the essential oils (its not sticky an ick in Hong Kong's humidity), for daily vitality or indulging in a full ritual set, PAÑPURI delivers scents that ground, uplift, and connect you to nature’s purest essence.

For the finest natural fragrances in Hong Kong, visit one of the PAÑPURI Sensorial Boutiques today to experience the difference in person. Discover the full range, receive personalised recommendations, and create your signature scent.

Key stores in Hong Kong:K11 MUSEA (Shop 215A, B2 Floor, Victoria Dockside, Tsim Sha Tsui) — the flagship. ifc mall (Shop 1091A, Podium Level 1, Central). Harbour City (Shop 3002A, Level 3, Tsim Sha Tsui). 

Official website: https://panpuri.com/

Instagram: @panpuriofficial

An abridged version of this feature out now in Lifestyle

A Rama Rendez-Vous with Lorraine Schwartz

 

Dramatic. With jewellery designer Lorraine Schwartz. Was trying to get a quote for the Best of Jewellery annual.  

Denim Trends: A Blend of Nostalgia, Versatility, and Innovation + 7 Popular Denim Brands in Hong Kong, 2026

A quick look at what's hitting the runway this season and in major fashion editorials around the world - it is easy to spot that denim remains a wardrobe cornerstone in 2026, balancing timeless appeal with fresh updates. Trends favour relaxed yet intentional silhouettes- moving away from extremes toward versatile, lived-in looks that transition seamlessly across seasons. Key directions include wide-leg and barrel shapes (still dominant but refined), straight-leg and bootcut revivals with ’90s influences, slightly cropped or high-water hems, and a surge in coloured washes like beige, khaki, chocolate brown, and even bolder tones. Darker indigos and saturated hues sit alongside lighter, worn finishes. Embellishments (pleats, buckles, or subtle details) add interest without overwhelming, while sustainability and comfort drive fabric innovations like softer stretches and premium selvedge.

Relaxed proportions dominate for everyday wear, with low-to-mid rises making comebacks alongside high-waisted options. Capri and cropped styles pair well with current footwear trends. Brown and earth-toned denim emerges as a versatile alternative to classic blue, offering polished sophistication. Overall, 2026 denim emphasizes longevity and personal styling over fleeting fads—pieces that feel broken-in yet intentional. And on that note.... 

7 Popular Denim Brands in 2026 and Their Specialties

Here are seven standout brands shaping the market, known for quality, fit, and innovation:

Levi’s 
The eternal icon. In 2026, Levi’s pushes heritage with modern twists: 501 ’90s straight-leg and ankle crops, Wedgie bootcuts, and baggy options in varied washes. Specialties include durable construction, inclusive sizing, and sustainability efforts. Their vintage-inspired fits offer broad appeal from casual to elevated.

AGOLDE
A cult favourite for vintage-modern hybrids. They excel in high-rise straights (like the 90s Pinch Waist), barrel legs, and cropped flares with premium, comfortable fabrics. Known for flattering cuts, retro washes, and ethical production- ideal for trend-driven yet wearable denim.

Frame 
Blends Parisian chic with California ease. Signature styles like Le Skinny de Jeanne evolve into straight-legs and tailored fits with clean, polished washes. Special: Sleek tailoring, versatile everyday pieces, and a focus on flattering, comfortable stretch.

Madewell
Accessible premium quality. They shine with Perfect Vintage wide-legs, barrel options, and straight fits emphasizing comfort and stretch. Specialties include great value, inclusive fits, and "broken-in" feel from day one—perfect for building a core wardrobe.

Citizens of Humanity
Luxury everyday denim. Standouts include Ayla baggy high-rise, Annina straights, and pleated trousers. Renowned for buttery-soft fabrics, superior tailoring, and elevated details that justify the price for longevity and style.

Rag & Bone
Premium construction with modern edge. They offer well-built straights, bootcuts, and relaxed fits in high-quality denim. Special: Clean aesthetics, durability, and versatility for dressing up or down.

Mother
Playful yet premium. Known for The Weekender and unique silhouettes with fun washes and fits. Special: Personality-driven designs, soft comfort, and consistent bestsellers that balance trend and timelessness.

Where to Get Them in Hong Kong: Levi’s, AGOLDE, Frame, Madewell, Citizens of Humanity, Rag & Bone, and Mother are widely available at major malls like Harbour City (Tsim Sha Tsui), IFC Mall, Times Square, or Pacific Place. Check department stores (e.g., Lane Crawford, Harvey Nichols) or brand stores/outlets. Online options via official HK sites or platforms like Zalora deliver quickly. For Levi’s specifically, multiple standalone stores exist across the city.

Top Three Japanese Denim Brands (Beyond the Usual Suspects)

Japanese denim stands for obsessive craftsmanship, selvedge weaves on shuttle looms, and heavyweight fabrics that age beautifully with wear. Beyond mainstream awareness:

Iron Heart
Benchmark for heavyweight (often 21oz+) raw selvedge. Known for rugged durability, unique fades, and tough construction - favoured by enthusiasts for longevity and character development.

Samurai Jeans
"Warriors of heavy denim." Excel in detailed reproductions, slubby textures, and strong indigo dyes. Special: Cultural motifs, exceptional fading potential, and heritage-inspired fits.

Momotaro Jeans
Features "Tokuno Blue" deep indigo with rich texture from multiple dye processes. Renowned for premium Okayama craftsmanship, comfort in wear, and beautiful aging.

In Hong Kong: Take5 & Benny's Store in Tsim Sha Tsui (Cameron Road) is the premier destination for Japanese denim, stocking Iron Heart, Samurai, Momotaro, Pure Blue Japan, Studio D’Artisan, and more. Evisu (a Japanese heritage brand with HK roots) has stores in Harbour City and other locations.

What Will Always Be in Style in Jeans - and Why
Classic straight-leg (mid-rise or high-rise) jeans, especially in versatile indigo or dark washes, will never fade. Why? Durability: Quality denim (cotton selvedge or sturdy twill) withstands years of wear, washes, and fades gracefully, developing personal character. Japanese and premium brands exemplify this investment value.

Accessibility and Versatility: Straights flatter most body types, pair with everything (sneakers to boots, tees to blazers), and suit casual-to-smart occasions. They transcend trends. Price Range: From "cheap and cheerful" (Uniqlo, H&M, Levi’s under HK$500- reliable basics with good stretch) to mid-range (Madewell, AGOLDE ~HK$1,000–2,000 for better fit and fabric) to luxury (Citizens, Iron Heart HK$2,000+ for artisanal quality). This spectrum ensures denim democratizes style while rewarding investment in premium pieces that last decades.

In 2026 and beyond, denim’s enduring power lies in its adaptability - rooted in utility yet open to evolution. Whether opting for a timeless Levi’s straight or a heavyweight Japanese pair from Take5, the right jeans deliver comfort, confidence, and lasting value. Prioritize fit and fabric feel; they become better with time.

Words and images: P.Ramakrishnan
Additional images, courtesy of their respective brands. 
Out now in Lifestyle. 

The best of Dining in TST: The Regent, Hong Kong

 

A dining destination in a city studded with options, the chefs at The Regent Hong Kong are in fine form across four incredible locations. Following the most extensive transformation in its history, the restaurants and eateries at the Regent Hong Kong are poised to make a magnificent return to Hong Kong’s dining scene. Over the course of as many weeks, we had the onus to sample four of its iconic restaurants on location: The Steak House, Harbourside, The Lobby Lounge, and the legendary (and, as we go to publish, Michelin-star-studded) Lai Ching Heen. It’s a difficult job, but someone had to do it. 😎

AS29 Fine Jewellery: Bold, Feminine Diamonds that Trace back to Hong Kong

AS29 Fine Jewellery is a distinctive luxury brand that blends rock 'n' roll edge with refined elegance. Belgian designer Audrey Savransky founded it in 2008 in Hong Kong, where she was based when she launched this beloved brand. As a fourth-generation diamantaire from Antwerp's diamond trade, Savransky grew up surrounded by gems. She created AS29 (inspired by her initials and lucky number) to offer modern women a non-conformist way to wear fine jewellery - bold yet effortless pieces for everyday and special occasions.

The brand stands out for its feminine yet rebellious aesthetic. It features 18K gold (yellow, white, rose, and sometimes black) richly encrusted with pavé diamonds and vibrant gemstones. Collections draw from thematic elements like geometry, nature, and symbols—think curves, hearts, flowers, wings, arrows, and butterflies - transformed into playful, statement-making designs. AS29 celebrates women's confidence and sparkle, creating jewellery that feels like personal armour rather than mere accessories.

The Latest Collection: Bloom highlights floral motifs with colourful sapphires, tsavorites, amethysts, and diamonds. It offers necklaces, earrings, rings, and bracelets in varying sizes, from delicate mini flowers to bold statement pieces. The collection captures spring-like vibrancy and femininity while maintaining AS29’s signature opulence and wearability.

Over nearly two decades, AS29 has achieved remarkable success. It counts global celebrities among its fans, including Beyoncé, Rihanna, Bella Hadid, Jennifer Lopez, Gal Gadot, Michelle Obama, and many others. The brand appears in top retailers like Lane Crawford, Farfetch, Goop, and 1stdibs, with worldwide shipping from its official site.

Hong Kong's dynamic energy shapes AS29’s fusion of European craftsmanship and Asian market savvy. Pieces are crafted for longevity as future heirlooms, balancing high purity gold with durable, everyday luxury.

Shop AS29 directly at www.as29.com (worldwide shipping) or through select luxury stockists. For inquiries, email info@as29.com. Follow @as29finejewellery on Instagram for the latest drops and celebrity sightings.

Original photography by Ruby Law
Stylist: Justine Lee