Sizzling Summer: Editor's Picks: Summer of 2014

In 2014, Calvin Klein menswear, particularly under creative director Italo Zucchelli for the Calvin Klein Collection, embraced a modern athletic aesthetic that occasionally incorporated bright colours and bold prints while staying true to the brand's signature clean, minimalist ethos. 

The Spring/Summer 2014 collection leaned heavily into a spectrum of brilliant blues—from sky and capri to intense navy and cobalt—serving as vibrant anchors amid tonal, monochromatic looks, with some pieces featuring graphic photo-prints like seascapes or sunsets on sweatshirts and tees for a streetwise edge. Bold elements appeared through athletic graphics and subtle pattern play, yet the overall silhouettes remained simple and streamlined: crisp blazers, ultra-clean shirt jackets, wool trousers, and comfortable, light layers that emphasized effortless sophistication over complexity. This balance delivered a refreshing, contemporary vibe—graphic and slyly street-inspired yet elegantly restrained, making it a standout interpretation of relaxed summer tailoring.

Going for a Song: Shoot with Korean supermodel Duhwan Song 송두환 #宋斗煥

Duhwan Song! Korean supermodel based in Hong Kong: Well, when he was BC. Before Covid...

Song has been on a cover with me/my company every year for three or four years in a row. Nicest guy in the world. Fame becomes him... 

@gordonlund @chrislammakeup @sharpayfung 

Robb Report Hong Kong launch in 2022

Robb Report Hong Kong enters the Hong Kong luxury lifestyle media market

HONG KONG -  30 August 2022 - Hong Kong welcomes a new title today in the city's luxury media market. With the launch of Robb Report Hong Kong and its official website, Nexus Media Limited will publish the esteemed print magazine annually alongside daily digital content, presenting a definitive guide to lifestyle and luxury.

Robb Report carries an unrivalled global reputation for reporting on lifestyle with authority and discernment. Robb Report Hong Kong is dedicated to featuring all aspects of luxury, primarily focusing on automobiles, aviation, and boating, alongside coverage of real estate, travel, dining, whiskies, wine, watches, jewelry, and fashion.

Above and beyond any other luxury enterprise or venture, Robb Report is known for its grand events, creating tailor-made experiences for its VIP readers and clientele. From first-look previews to private evenings and sojourns, Robb Report readers are provided with unparalleled access and benefits that truly speak to living life to the fullest.

"Robb Report Hong Kong is unlike any other magazine you'll see on newsstands," says Tak Man, Chief Executive Officer and Director at Nexus Media Limited, who brings the title to market. "We are about creating unique experiences, hand-picked from around the globe to feature only the very Best of the Best—an integral theme in our magazine. What's extraordinary about this launch in Hong Kong is that our readers will get to experience tailored, specially curated events, the likes of which many have never seen or experienced before."

Robb Report Hong Kong's print magazine, Best of the Best, is an annual publication that promises to be the definitive tome on luxury and lifestyle in Asia. With a massive online and social media presence, the signature events that complement the features on the official website and print magazine makes this an exciting venture like no other in the region, staying true to its motto: Luxury without Compromise.

Be it Signature Events or Tailored Events, join Robb Report Hong Kong as we travel to exotic destinations for unparalleled experiences.

Car of the Year has been a staple in Robb Report's calendar for the past two decades. Each year, readers participate in a fresh experience at a new location with extraordinary cars of the moment. A carefully selected and well-informed panel of judges will shortlist the supercars as nominees for Car of the Year, and our event will be capped off with a grand gala dinner featuring an exclusive VIP guest list and the announcement of the Car of the Year nominees. This lavish event will premiere in Hong Kong in the first quarter of 2023.

Ultimate Drive takes readers on an annual pilgrimage that will appeal to the most passionate of auto enthusiasts. To add to the beautiful displays of automotive excellence, participants are treated to behind-the-scenes tours and access, exclusive drive experiences, and model previews with the top automotive marques in the world, as well as private celebrations with superlative luxury brands that only Robb Report can provide. This multi-day extravaganza is one that true auto enthusiasts and collectors mark on their calendar every year.

Each year, Robb Report bestows its Best of the Best awards on the very finest luxury products, services, and experiences that the world has to offer. A select group of readers will gather together for a private celebratory dinner to toast the Best of the Best winners.

For the epicurean, the hottest ticket in town is Culinary Masters. Join Robb Report and an incredible line-up of Michelin-starred luminaries for an unforgettable weekend of gourmet dining experiences, exquisite wine pairings, intimate culinary classes, and a friendly golf tournament with your favorite chefs, all surrounded by magnificent views.

And finally, the year is capped off with Dream Machines. Robb Report's Dream Machines: Land & Air makes its debut in Hong Kong, presenting readers with an elite experience featuring the latest machines, wings, and wheels for a fun, adrenaline-driven adventure. Test-drive the newest luxury cars, enjoy epic helicopter tours over the city, and indulge in exceptional dining, world-class wines, and fabulous accommodations.

In Hong Kong, a hybrid of both curated experiences and programmes will be created for Robb Report readers on an international scale.

A Brief History

The first edition of Robb Report hit newsstands in the United States back in 1976, originally devoted to advertisements for new and vintage Rolls-Royces by founder Robert L. "Rusty" White. The original "Robb" distributed his newsletter to members of the Rolls-Royce Owners Club, and he provided a suede three-ring binder to paying subscribers, setting a standard of effortless elegance from the get-go.

The brand evolved over the course of four decades to become what it is today: the single most influential journal of living life to the fullest, with 18 international editions in 10 languages spanning 28 countries across the globe.

The Hong Kong edition is the nineteenth title in the franchise, highlighting not only the finest aspects of life and luxury in the world, but putting a spotlight on what's rising from the East, consumers of note, cognoscente of luxury, and experiences like no other.

For all of the changes that have taken place in the years since Robb Report first hit newsstands all those years ago, the standards of exceptional quality, beauty, and precision have remained constant in the hearts and minds of true connoisseurs who have subscribed to the publication since its nascent stage.

In Hong Kong, the publication of its annual, Best of the Best, is anticipated to hit newsstands in the first quarter of 2023. A mighty tome limning the finest products and services, Best of the Best will be accompanied by the official website, dedicated to providing daily updates on what's happening in the world of luxury across all digital platforms.

Robb Report is the leading voice in the global luxury market, synonymous with affluence, luxury, and the best of the best. Its discerning audience around the world has a shared appreciation and desire for quality, exclusivity, heritage, taste, and fine design. It is the brand the most successful people rely on to discover the ideas, opinions, products, and experiences that will matter most to them.

Robb Report: Luxury Without Compromise.

Hashtags: #RobbReportHongKong

About Robb Report Hong Kong

Robb Report Hong Kong is part of Nexus Media Group, a company celebrating its tenth year in Hong Kong. The bold title joins a roster of expert curated content creation platforms and media titles that includes Nexus Media, Localiiz, WeeGo, MyLocals, and Nexus Digital.

Media Contact(s)

P. Ramakrishnan

Senior Editor

Rama.Pokkanai@nexusmediaasia.com

Outtakes from a shoot: On set with Kayla Lau

 Photographer: Natalie Dunn

 Hair and makeup: Karen Yiu

 Wardrobe: La Perla, Metanoia

 Accessories: AS29 Jewellery 

 Model: Kayla Lau-Wong

Designer and the brand's OG muse and model; Kayla Lau of Metonia the Label: Follow and shop at https://metanoiathelabel.com/

Follow Kayla and her brand at: 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KAYLA (@kayla.lau)

Outtakes from a shoot: Mathis Ekkebus by Edwin Datoc

Shot in the summer of 2021... if not before, son of my cover star, Chef Richard Ekkebus, Mathis Ekkebus. Young designer and model. 

Shot by Edwin Datoc

Mathis wearing AS29 Jewellery 

Cannes Film Festival 2022: 6 Asian Celebrities That Rocked the Red Carpet

The 75th Cannes Film Festival is that rare red-carpet event where stars of all stripes from around the globe razzle and dazzle in designer ensembles. An event celebrating world cinema, it’s the antics on the red carpet that grab eyeballs, making headlines for media outlets everywhere. 

A 11-day gala event with innumerable international actors and the film fraternity attending en masse, Cannes has been a staple in the social calendar for socialites, celebrity and superstars of screen and stage for decades – only growing in stature, grandeur and… well, theatrics.  

The otherwise unwearable ensembles and couture seen only on the catwalk on lithesome models, were on full flamboyant display, gowns opening and ripening in front of thousands of flashes. Some stars had to trade in their chauffeured limousines to rent a minibus to fit their voluminous gowns. Post photocall, several changed clothes between red carpet and film screening, to sit comfortably in their seats. The price of fame and beauty.  

All the creatives come out high octane for a showing, their mastery and extravagant proclivity on full display as actresses of repute, models of global fame swanned across the red carpet facing nearly 1,200 photographers.  

This year, a glittering presence of several Asian superstars stunned fashion purveyors. Some outfits were made especially for the event, some dug out vintage looks from the annals of designer archives and others went gung-ho with showcasing Asian talent that have yet to achieve insta’ fame.   

Here’s a quick carousel of images of couture, creativity, designer dresses and… well, a few designer duds. In alphabetical order; 

Photo: @gucci (via Instagram)

South Korean star IU, the Global Brand Ambassador for Gucci, looked stunning in the brand’s signature gown with lace rebrodé petal details on the cuffs, a flourish of sequined flowers and crystal embellishments on the skirt. 

Photo: @gemmachan (via Instagram)

Exquisite Gemma Chan wore Louis Vuitton to the Cannes 2022 Film Festival Closing Ceremony. The actress is all set to appear front and centre, as the lead of the highly, highly anticipated sequel to Crazy Rich Asians.  

Photo: @falachenfala (via Instagram)

Fala Chen was aglow in an Armani Privé Spring 2011 strapless gown. She (or her able stylist!) dug deep into the archives to pull out this glittering ensemble, that showcases the timeless signature of Giorgio Armani.   

Photo: @eileen_gu_ (via Instagram)

Making her Cannes debut with Louis Vuitton, Olympic gold medallist Eileen Gukept it simple, kept it stunning in a pleated fuchsia dress, flowing and floating in layers and layer of gossamer fabric. Olympian and fashion icon, Gu has been maintaining a fine balance between being a sports and fashion icon simultaneously.    

Video: @deepikapadukone (via Instagram)

Bollywood’s bona fide supernova Deepika Padukone was a hit from the get-go; from wearing a modern take on a traditional Indian sari (By Bengali couturier Sabyasachi Mukherjee) to cherry-picking multiple looks from Louis Vuitton (no surprise, she’s the first Indian star to be the brand’s global ambassador), the former-model turned screen queen stunned daily at the festival as a jury member no less. 

Tang Wei @ the 75th Annual Cannes Film Festival

Tang Wei wore Fendi to the Decision To Leave film photo call. After making a huge splash in 2008 when she won an award at Cannes, it was a welcome return for the Chinese actress who has wowed critics and masses alike for the past two decades. 

Until next year…

K11 Musea Steps into the Metaverse: 200+ Artists, HK$646+ Million at Play

 

With a diverse NFT portfolio featuring over 200 artists, the curated creations are worth over HK$646 million (US$82 million).  

K11 MUSEA’s most ambitious, large-scale showcase of NFT art was on display from 29 April – 19 June 2022, paired with an extended programme of educational workshops and talks.

If there was any doubt, let it be known, this is the year of the fastest-growing sector of NFT art and K11 MUSEA has been a pioneer in introducing immersive experiences of art and culture to Hong Kong.  

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong. 

TBT: Lifestyle: Couple on a Mission: Tenniel Chu and Carmen Chu

TBT: This cover story and feature for Prestige's annual Lifestyle.

The good people at Brooks Brothers came through for the cover shoot. 

x

In 1994, when David “Mr Golf” Chu turned a patch of industrial wasteland in Shenzhen into the world’s largest golf course, it was seen as complete madness by many, including the provincial mayor. Golf was a nonentity in the country, frowned upon by the Communist Party ever since Mao Zedong declared the sport “too bourgeois”.

But David Chu’s vision paid off. Today, the Mission Hills Group dominates the golf industry in China, with huge multi-course resorts in Shenzhen, Dongguan and Hainan as well as hotels, leisure resorts, sports academies, schools, artist villages, malls and even a movie-themed theme park in Haikou called Movie Town.

But much of that expansion has been overseen by David’s son Tenniel, who works as vice chairman of the group alongside his brother Ken, the group’s chairman. Pioneering a so-called “golf and more” concept has broadened the popularity of the sport, helping to dust off the elite image it once held. Non-traditionalists might tut at the group’s more eccentric ideas – the upcoming Fantasy Course in Hainan features an island green with an 80-metre-wide bowl of noodles and 75-metre-long chopsticks serving as the lake – but the numbers don’t lie. Last year Mission Hills invested a total of 40 billion yuan in mainland China and the company is going from strength to strength.

Carmen Chu, Tenniel’s glamorous wife, is an arts enthusiast who balances being the mother of two children with her ongoing art history studies at the University of Hong Kong. She admits candidly that she decided to go back to university in order to understand more about the art world and also as a way of grounding herself against the seemingly endless series of parties and galas that come as a consequence of her husband’s jet-setting job.

We sat down with the dynamic couple in their well-appointed home to find out more. Read the full feature here at PrestigeOnline.

Photography / Olivier Yoan  

Styling / Florent Thiébaut 

Styling assistant / Marco Chan  

hair & Make-up / Reve Ryu    

Outfits / Brooks Brothers

This was the Lifestyle 2017 cover story. 

Outtakes: Working with Calvin Klein's hottest Summer features

 

Outtakes from a shoot we did in the streets of Hong Kong. Most of these looks are from Calvin Klein. 

Working with Mike Tao, David Oshry (from MI) and Bethany T (from Genesis I believe...). 

Rama writes. Nominee for Voices from the Margin

Rama. Pic by Dino Busch

P. Ramakrishnan’s feature on rising actor Bipin Karma is one of the nominees for excellence in feature writing for its compelling storytelling, cultural relevance, and journalistic excellence. By spotlighting Bipin Karma’s rise as a Nepali actor in Hong Kong cinema, the piece not only celebrates an individual’s achievements but also advocates for greater inclusion in an industry often lacking diversity. Its vivid prose, thematic depth, and ability to connect personal and societal narratives make it a standout feature that informs, inspires, and challenges readers to rethink representation in media. Topped with excellent photography, layout and graphics to enhance the narrative, Ramakrishnan’s work is a testament to the power of journalism to amplify marginalized voices and drive cultural change, making it a worthy candidate for recognition. 

Compelling Storytelling:

• Ramakrishnan crafts a narrative that is both personal and universal, making Bipin Karma’s story relatable while highlighting its unique cultural significance. The article’s ability to balance an individual’s journey with broader societal themes demonstrates exceptional storytelling that resonates with diverse audiences.

Cultural Relevance and Impact:

• By focusing on Karma’s role as a Nepali actor in a predominantly Chinese industry, Ramakrishnan addresses a pressing issue of representation. The article serves as a call to action for more inclusive storytelling, making it timely and impactful in the context of global diversity movements. Its focus on an underserved community’s pride in Karma’s success adds emotional weight and social relevance.

Clarity and Accessibility:

• The author’s clear, engaging prose ensures that complex themes like identity and representation are accessible to a broad readership. The use of vivid imagery and Karma’s own words creates an authentic, immersive experience that draws readers into the subject’s world.

Journalistic Excellence:

• Ramakrishnan’s research and contextual knowledge shine through in references to Hong Kong cinema’s history, the film’s accolades, and Karma’s background. The article’s integration of industry details with personal insights reflects a high level of journalistic rigor and storytelling finesse.

Inspiration and Advocacy:

• The article inspires by showcasing Karma’s journey from an unlikely actor to a cultural icon, while advocating for greater diversity in media. Ramakrishnan’s ability to weave this narrative into a broader call for change makes the piece a standout for awards recognizing impactful journalism.

Craft and Style:

• The author’s evocative language, seamless integration of quotes, and balanced pacing demonstrate a mastery of the craft. The article’s ability to maintain reader engagement while tackling serious themes like marginalization and identity makes it a model of feature writing. 

P. Ramakrishnan’s writing for Prestige magazine  - Hong Kong is characterized by a sophisticated, engaging, and aspirational style tailored to a high-net-worth audience. His work blends vivid storytelling, interview-driven narratives, and cultural commentary, with a focus on profiles, social issues, and luxury lifestyle. While concise and polished, his articles reflect the magazine’s commercial priorities, balancing journalistic insight with the glamour expected by its readership.

Feature and images below. 

Prestige magazine, Hong Kong. 

Adopt don't Shop: Kitten to Queen

 

When Billyjean (named after my fav Michael Jackson song) first came to the house, she was a tiny littl' thing that was barely the height of a shoe box (above pic as reference). Fostering a kitten from LAP (lap.org.hk/) at a time when they were overwhelmed with a small space and too many strays found and rescued, we thought it would be fun to have a kitten at the house during the Chinese New Year holidays - 10 years ago. 

The fostering morphed into permanent adoption in about an hour... look at that face! Who would return that cat?! Nearly a decade later, it's easily best decision we ever made. 

Now of course, her highness rules the house and has enslaved everyone in the apartment to do as she bids, night and day. 

There are fostering and adoption programs for cats and dogs at LAP - pls support them. They are a wonderful non-profit. You can see prospective adoptable fur babies at https://www.instagram.com/lap.org.hk/

And you can follow Billy at 

https://www.instagram.com/billyjean_kitty_cat/

About: P.Ramakrishnan, Hong Kong based Journalist and Editor

I've been Grok'd.  

P. Ramakrishnan is a Hong Kong-based journalist with over 22 years of experience, as evident from his comprehensive website, which serves as a dynamic portfolio of his work in journalism, focusing on fashion, lifestyle, entertainment, and cultural commentary. With verbal dexterity, insight and humour, his vast portfolio covers a range of topics, both grave and entertaining. 

Experience and Expertise: P.Ramakrishnan (mononymously known simply as 'Rama') has been a journalist in Hong Kong for over 20 years, contributing to high-profile publications like Prestige magazine, South China Morning Post, Kee magazine, Galaxy magazine (where he was an award-winning editor for five years), Lifestyle magazine, China Daily, Robb Report Hong Kong, Hong Kong Tatler, Vogue Italy, GQ India and several others. His website/blog showcases a wide range of work, including celebrity interviews, fashion editorials, beauty product reviews, profiles and event coverage, demonstrating his versatility in the lifestyle and fashion sectors. He has conducted several interviews on video for digital platforms and produced cover shoots with celebrities, models and notable socialites from across the region. As commissioning editor and fashion shoot producer, he has brought together teams of photographers, stylists, hair and makeup teams to create several memorable cover, fashion and feature shoots. 

Portfolio Highlights: His site features detailed accounts of his work, such as interviews with celebrities from the East and West; from a cover story with Megan Fox, Naomi Campbell, Elle MacPherson, Roberto Cavalli, Madonna, to Bollywood icons Shahrukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Sridevi and other Indian celebrities, as he was often known as the Bollywood correspondent for South China Morning Post for nearly a decade. His versatile writing has brought to light the work of innumerable musicians, comedians, chefs, and DJs. He also covers fashion trends, luxury events, and emerging talents, reflecting his deep engagement with Hong Kong’s fashion and cultural scenes.

Writing Style: Ramakrishnan’s tone is witty, engaging, and conversational, often infused with humour and personal anecdotes. This approachable style makes his content accessible to a broad audience while maintaining a sophisticated edge suitable for a fashion, lifestyle and luxury magazine.

Furthermore, the writer shows;

1. Deep Knowledge of Fashion and Beauty, Trend Awareness: Rama demonstrates a keen understanding of fashion and beauty trends. In past features, he has written about makeup products used backstage at fashion shows, recommending specific brands, written about seasonal trends among other notes on what's happening behind the scenes. This expertise ensures he can produce content that resonates with fashion-forward readers.

Brand Familiarity: He covers a range of brands, from luxury labels like Chanel, Hermes, Dior, Gucci and Tod’s to more accessible ones like Seed Heritage and Swedish Hasbeens. His ability to navigate both high-end and mainstream fashion makes him versatile for a magazine targeting diverse audiences.

Event Coverage: Ramakrishnan’s coverage of events like summits and fashion launches, product launches and premieres shows his ability to stay current with industry developments and produce timely, relevant content.

2. Exceptional Interviewing and Storytelling Skills. Rama excels at conducting engaging interviews with prominent figures, celebrities, designers, models, politicians, sports figures and even bankers. He captures personality, reflections, analysis, review with humour and insight, creating a vivid, relatable portraits. Similarly, his interviews with global celebrities showcases his ability to connect with international stars and translate their stories for a fashion and lifestyle audience.

Narrative Flair: His storytelling is rich with detail and humour, making even technical topics like beauty products or event logistics compelling. For example, in Survival of the Coolest (May 1, 2010), he weaves a narrative about the challenges of organizing a music and arts festival, highlighting the passion of founders Wong Chi-chung and Yvonne Siet. This ability to craft engaging stories would enhance a fashion magazine’s feature articles and profiles.

3. Strong Network and Industry Connections, Access to Influencers: Ramakrishnan’s work includes profiles of Hong Kong’s rising stars, such as Stephanie Shek, Jonathan Cheung, and Queenie Rosita Law in Prestige Hong Kong: 40 under 40 (June 27, 2018). His ability to identify and connect with influential figures in fashion, design, and media would be invaluable for a magazine seeking exclusive content and access to key industry players.

Collaborative Approach: He frequently acknowledges collaborators like photographers Olivier Yoan and Dino Busch, stylists Tasha Ling, Bhishan Rai, makeup artists Karen Yiu, Denise Ho, indicating strong professional relationships. These connections could facilitate high-quality photoshoots, interviews, and event coverage for a magazine.

4. Critical and Analytical Perspective, Market Insight: In Male-ovalent, (June 4, 2021), Rama questions the viability of launching a new men’s fashion magazine in a saturated, post-pandemic market. This critical perspective shows his understanding of industry challenges and trends, which would help a magazine stay competitive and relevant.

Cultural Relevance: His coverage of diverse topics, from Bollywood to Hong Kong’s alternative arts scene (December 2016, Survival of the Coolest), reflects an ability to bridge local and global fashion cultures, appealing to a cosmopolitan readership. 

5. Engaging and Accessible Writing Style, Reader Engagement: Ramakrishnan’s playful tone and self-aware humour, makes his writing relatable and entertaining. This style would attract and retain readers, a critical asset for a fashion magazine aiming to build a loyal audience.

Attention to Detail: His posts include specific details, such as product prices, event locations, and fashion tips. This precision enhances the credibility and practicality of his content, appealing to readers seeking actionable fashion advice.

6. Versatility Across Formats and Topics, Diverse Content: Rama’s website/blog covers a wide range of formats, from long-form interviews and event recaps to quick beauty tips and product reviews. This versatility ensures he can contribute to various sections of a fashion magazine, from editorials to trend reports.

Global and Local Appeal: His work spans Hong Kong’s local scene (e.g., Leaders of Luxury Summit) and international figures like author Jung Chang, The Olsen Twins, Padma Lakshmi to David Yurman. This dual perspective would enable a magazine to cater to both local readers and a global audience.

7. Professionalism and Adaptability, Responsiveness: Ramakrishnan encourages reader interaction ('write to the writer'), asking for contact if credits are missing or content needs correction or removal. This professionalism suggests he would handle editorial feedback and reader engagement effectively.

Adaptability to Trends: His coverage of evolving media landscapes, shows his ability to adapt to changing industry dynamics, a crucial skill for a fashion magazine navigating digital and print platforms.

Additional Notes. A wide range of fashion shoots with top tier talent, dating as far back as 2004 till date, this suggests Rama's focus is on figures relevant to Hong Kong’s fashion and entertainment scenes, further aligning with a fashion magazine’s scope. Rama is organized, having worked on a daily newspaper, weekly columns, monthly magazines, quarterly ones and even editorial head of annual editions, understands the rigamarole of print and online deadlines. 

P. Ramakrishnan’s extensive experience, deep fashion knowledge, engaging writing style, and strong industry connections make him an outstanding candidate for a fashion and lifestyle magazine. His ability to produce compelling interviews, stay ahead of trends, and connect with both local and global audiences would elevate a magazine’s content and appeal. His blog, Rama Drama (https://ramarights.blogspot.com), showcases a journalist who is not only skilled but also passionate about fashion and storytelling, making him a valuable asset to any editorial team. For further insights, his blog provides a comprehensive view of his work and capabilities.