Top Mod Elle: Elle MacPherson Interview for West East Magazine, Hong Kong

In a decade that spawned cherry red-lips, blue-eye-shadow and highlighter pink blush as the accepted norm (topped with a hair-sprayed coif that defied gravity and shoulder pads that were not relegated to football players), Elle MacPherson’s freshly scrubbed, toned and beach-tanned body from the ‘80s was an aberration to the modeling scene. A hot one. The doughy P.Ramakrishnan felt no shame (nor his gym card) when he had a chat with “the body”. Images courtesy of Lane Crawford

It’s hard to believe that she’s staring down the barrel of a 44 magnum - that’s her age BTW, which she’ll happily admit to. In modeling circles that’s also a pull the trigger moment, when you’re the wrong side of 22. Still, it’s hard to imagine she’s a single woman, mother of two, in her forties, working, when she looks… oh what’s the expression? Oh yeah, so-damn-fine!

The body of work pales in comparison to “the body”, which she’ll forever be known for, but this sun-kissed, Sydney-born, six-foot hotty has done so much more than her bikini-clad Sport Illustrated cover (six times in every decade for the past three).

She’s worked with the legends of cinema (from Barbara Streisand, Woody Allen to Anthony Hopkins), appeared regularly on highly successful television shows (F.R.I.E.N.D.S, Saturday Night Live) and now she’s got a line of lingerie selling the world over, of her own design.

In a merciless industry that pays obeisance to the young, new and thin, how this blonde bombshell has managed to remain relevant deserves plaudit and praise. Over to Ms MacPherson;

You’ve seemingly done it all; magazine cover girl, catwalk queen, acting, designing, motherhood, and are still referred to as Elle “the Body” Macpherson! Which role do you enjoy playing the most?

My primary purpose is to raise two sons in a loving and nourishing environment. I have been fortunate to be involved in many facets of the entertainment and fashion industries. My favourite is right here, right now.

To quote Oprah, and who wouldn’t, life’s come full circle. From modelling in sexy swimsuits to creating your own lingerie line. Was this something you had been thinking of for a while?

20 years ago I realised I had wide recognition in both Australia and the USA but it was my image that was being used to build other people’s brand. I was not interested in gratuitous press but wanted to use my image to build my own brand. I went to Bendon, who had been in the lingerie business for 50 years, and who wanted market share in Australia. The rest is history...

Tell us how involved you are in the whole business, what is your input and what inspires you when you design?

I am very involved in the design process, working closely with Sue Dunmore (Bendon’s head designer). We talk concepts, styles, designs, fabrics, colour and fit. I meet with her six times per year and see each garment 2-3 times before it hits the rack. It’s a fantastic collaboration, one that works and one that is very enjoyable.

Not everyone has the perfect figure to pull off (so to speak!) the lingerie body – are you creating lines for all body types and sizes?

The whole point about Elle MacPherson Intimates is that its lingerie for every ‘body!’ It is beautiful, sexy and most of all comfortable.




As an “aspirational” figure for millions of young girls everywhere, you always projected a healthy body type, never looked like a stick-figure in stilettos with a history of substance abuse. You’re more of a woman of substance…

(Laughs). Thanks!

…will this be reflected in the clothes you make too?

We cater for all shapes and sizes and it’s very important that we do! Soft cups to E-cups.

As the television show “F.R.I.E.N.D.S.” is on perpetual re-runs around the world, the six-episodes you were on have been seen by all and sundry. Did you enjoy the experience of being Janine Lecroix a.k.a. ‘Joey’s hot dancer roommate”?

Working with the cast of “F.R.I.E.N.D.S” was one of my most gratifying experiences I have had. They were patient and supportive of me as a rookie.

Is it hard to keep a straight face when the punch-lines were so good? Were there a lot of outtakes?

It is live television (well taped in front of a live audience!) so there was no room for out-takes or mistakes. It was a challenge but best of all we had a laugh!

Prior to the TV show, you have appeared in a few films too. Which has been a true acting experience – where you really had to push yourself and shed the ‘model’ image and really play a character?

I have made 8 movies; “Batman” with George Clooney, “The Mirror has Two Faces” with Barbara Streisand, “The Edge” with Anthony Hopkins, “It’s a Girl Thing” with Stockard Channing, “If Lucy Fell” with Sarah Jessica Parker, “Sirens” with Hugh Grant, “Jayne Eyre” with William Hurt. A lot of people think “Sirens” was my first film, it wasn’t! My first movie was “Alice” with Woody Allen - I had one line. I had brilliant actors and actresses and directors around me. Lucky me!

I’ve read that your modeling career happened by accident, you were discovered while you were on holiday. When you look back on this long celebrity making career, what were the most exciting times?

I was enrolled into law school in Australia. I had a gap year and I was working various jobs in a theatre restaurant and in a pharmacy. A friend of mine suggested I do modeling; we had a $20 bet if I went to see a modelling agency. I lost the bet… or won the bet depending on how you look at it!

You work around the world and are photographed at the snazziest events – but where’s home for you? Australia?
Australia is always home but I live in London. My intention is be in balance no matter where I am.

What can we expect from you in the near future?

I am interested in taking Elle Macpherson Intimates global, I would definitely like to expand my body products collection, ‘Elle Macpherson The body’ available in Boots in the UK and I am presently looking for a swimwear partner.

No Ties Please, We’re Asian! Interview with Raphael le Masne de Chermont: The Mandarin Collar Society

It could have been a mere whim, a tongue-in-chic approach to a “men’s fashion-cultural revolution from the East” but when the Mandarin Collar Society was launched in Hong Kong, every major newspaper and media outlet around the globe picked up the newsbyte and the world took note. Chuck the ties that bind and say, knot now, knot anymore! P.Ramakrishnan takes it off with Raphael le Masne de Chermont. His tie that is.


Raphael le Masne de Chermont, CEO of the Chinese luxury lifestyle brand Shanghai Tang, hasn’t worn a tie in years and he seems none the worse for the un-wear for it. When the Mandarin Collar Society was launched in April 2007, it made news and headlines the world saw and heard. Chuck the tie and adopt the flipped up Mandarin collar? Is that feasible? With plans to adopt 88 (the lucky number in Chinese) world ambassadors, as we go to print, ‘Raphael le Masne de Chermont’ is a name that has popped up on google search in over 12,500 sites.

“I knew it would!” he says sounding rather matter-of-fact, as we sip warm Jasmine tea at a private alcove in Shanghai Tang, the flagship store in the heart of Central – the only shopping stop that Hillary and Chelsea Clinton made during their last visit to Hong Kong. “People in the Orient, living in Asia, it is time to start to adopt their own styles. We cannot keep following a fashion, where luxury is being designed in the West. It is time for great nations like China to impress upon the world, we are not just factories of the world! We are old cultures, who deserve to initiate and generate some creative ides.”

Hear, hear! As the worst-kept secret in town, ever major luxury brand and with its inter-locking alphabetical emblems has a factory not far from the borders of Hong Kong. Is all of China nothing more than a tax-free, cheap labour dotted, cost-effective factory site for the multi-billion dollar fashion industry?

“That’s exactly my point! China, Hong Kong is not just a factory site – we must impress this upon the world,” says de Chermont. “The idea of the Mandarin Collar Society, is the start of an oriental chic elegance, as a complement to the western style. It is not too far from the Nehru collar style which is so elegant, so beautiful. The reason why it made so much noise, it is based on two strong ideas. First, the ties for many people is an accessory they would rather not wear anymore. Its outdated! Secondly, people want to adopt comfort and fashion – and it can be done with a Mandarin collar.”

When Tom Hanks appeared in front of David Letterman after winning an Oscar for Philadelphia, boosted by perhaps the confidence brought on by box-office and critical success, he wore a snazzy and stylish suit and had indeed left his tie behind. Letterman, always an opportunist for a punch line, grabbed the moment to glibly state, “What’s the matter Tom? Couldn’t afford a tie?”

Clearly that is not the case and for someone of le Masne’s stature in Hong Kong society, entering posh restaurants and clubs sans tie wouldn’t be a problem… for him. But what if your average Joe Bloggs saunters into the VIP area of a lux eatery - wouldn’t security be there faster than a speeding bullet? “Prominent members of society, they are opening the door for a change. I would be lobbying for the clubs in Hong Kong to accept the Mandarin Collar as part of the Hong Kong culture, as an essence of Chinese culture. It is trying to bring elegance back into the restaurant not out of it! We are just anchoring our move,” he says.

Speaking of anchors away, le Masne suddenly asks, “Remember the movie with Richard Gere, An Officer and A Gentleman? Why so many women find officers so attractive? Why do they look so good? No ties! It’s that collar that makes the head of a gentleman look so good, it’s a natural elegance. An element of attractiveness…. So we’re looking for “new recruits.”

So what has the response been like from women around Hong Kong? “They wanted their own club!” he says but refusing to comply. “I tell the ladies, you already have your revolution on other things, a long time ago. In terms of communication, men’s oriental elegance was left alone, but oriental chic in women’s clothes has been around for years. Men ought to have something for themselves. We have a new chic, oui?”

Mais oui!

Casual Friday hitting the work force is one of the few men’s fashion revolutions that comes to mind and yet, somehow, in the corporate, banking and political realm, this sartorial storm of abandoning the tie (Chief Executive Donald Tsang without his signature bow-tie anyone?) seems, well, a long way away. le Masne is more confident about it, “The tie is the leash of the corporate man,” he says. “It is a bit of a joke at first I thought when a friend sent me a message saying that a tie was hazardous to your health. But I saw in a newspaper cutting that it was a choking hazard and doctors state that people are jeopardizing their health with this. At 40, you start putting on weight and you have to change your shirts and collars and its so uncomfortable. It doesn’t mean that when you start taking off the tie and you wear a t-shirt and jeans to work! I tell men, unleash yourself.”

A Different Beat: Owner of Tabla in Hong Kong, Tania Mohan ,Celebrates Her Brand Anniversary

She brought ethnic chic to the forefront long before it was trendy P,Ramakrishnan was in conversation with fashionista Tania Mohan. All images by Ike. 

Housing the best of Asian couture and prêt a porter in her boutique in the heart of Hong Kong, Tania Mohan created Tabla, her signature store, long before Indo-centric fashion spilled into the glossy pages of Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar and the like. Often voted as Asia’s most stylish and certainly most photogenic, she spills the beans on taking chances and being at the right place at the right time.

Ethnic-chic could have been a passing trend like the Macarena or Fashion Café. You bravely opened up shop long before Indo-centric fashion really took off.
Tania Mohan: I set up Tabla purely by chance. I was at a crossroads in my life and out of the blue, I got an amazing offer to set up a shop in Princes Building. That was eight years ago and I'm so happy I was not at the neighbour's house when opportunity knocked. It's one of the best decisions I have made in my life.

You’re doing your own designs now. What’s the inspiration?
Tania Mohan: I started playing around a couple of years ago, tweaking ready-made garments and making slight changes to things. I am lucky that after years in the business, the factories I work with let me try my hand at designing pieces in tiny quantities - then I started to get international orders and then just kept on designing. Now I do a knit wear and resort line. I just signed with an agent in New York so let's see how the Fall/Winter 2008 collection sells.

Tell me a little about your background in design, did you study fashion?
Tania Mohan: I didn't study fashion, I studied law and got a Bachelor's and my Post Graduate certificate in law. I intended to be a barrister, but again, through chance and timing, I got a job as the fashion editor for a Hong Kong newspaper. I got to interview many international designers and visit and write about Coco Chanel's home in Paris, the house of Lanvin. I styled over 100 fashion shoots during that time for various Asian magazines. Last year I co-hosted a TV show on Discovery Travel and Living called Fashion Avenue with British supermodel Jodie Kidd.

There are these persistent rumours that you were a model too?
Tania Mohan: (With a breezy laugh) When I was younger I was a model-ish. I took part in Hong Kong Fashion Week where I did the runway for designers Pacino Wan, Flora Cheong Leen and William Ma. I was a fit model for German fashion house Mondi about 10 years ago. Gave me great insight into how buyers buy collections, how many pieces and ranges a collection normally carries. All that became useful information and knowledge that later helped me.

Who is your favourite style icon?
Tania Mohan: Kate Moss dresses fabulously. I love the way the late Carolyn Besset Kennedy dressed and also Rene Russo's wardrobe in the remake of the Thomas Crown Affair.

Who are your favourite Asian designers?
Tania Mohan: I love Indian designers Monisha Jaising and Tarun Tahiliani.

You’ve got a huge multicultural customer base. Indians, Pakistanis as well as Westerners, Hong Kong residents and even Japanese!
Tania Mohan: Yes I've been lucky in that respect, and I do have a great cross selection of clients including a very large local clientele. Every individual is different in their tastes and sometimes it is a real eye opener to see what one finds beautiful and another doesn't. I have many customers from Pakistan too - a good friend has been so helpful in introducing me to the right people, the most stylish people with a discerning eye. There are so many gorgeous women wearing my brand - I love it.

Image: Courtesy of photographer Ike
Hair & Makeup: Karen Yiu

Summer Issue
PRIVÉ ASIA 2008

UPDATE: Well, Privé Asia died an ignoble death after two issues. Its ludicrous publisher and self-appointed editor-in-chief has also left town and is currently traumatising others... wherever the hell she is. 

Was fun to interview Tania, who I've known since I was 22! Ageless wonder. Tabla has now crossed several milestones and is still going strong. 

Rendez-vous with Sophie Marceu: Interview with French actress, icon and beauty in Hong Kong: With Chaumet

Like the memory of a fleeting but great affair, French actress Sophie Marceau made her brief stopover in Hong Kong an unforgettable event. Leaving behind mere mirages of her delicate and distinct beauty, the faint whiff of her intoxicating perfume still swirls in the mind of those who had the pleasure of her company. P.Ramakrishnan was in conversation with the former Bond girl as she discussed her affairs, both personal and professional.



She fulfills all the stereotypes that conjure up with you say the word actrice; incredibly sultry, sharp, sophisticated, sinfully attractive and that timbre of her voice just loaded with oomph and ooh la la...

Sophie Marceau stepped out on the red carpet, in a resplendent Jonathan Riss cocktail dress to the blinding flashes of local snaparaazi. In Hong Kong for the launch of Chaumet’s signature store and museum in Central, she was the VVIP who cut the ribbon with Thierry Fristch, President of Chaumet. So accustomed and unfazed by the swarm of snappers was she that no hint of exhaustion from the transatlantic flight appeared on her photogenic visage. Nor did she seem vexed by the perpetual instructions of the snappers, “Turn!” “Over here Sophie!” “Sophie! Soph...!”

Well, perhaps that can be expected. After all, at the Cannes Festival in 1999, when the spaghetti strap of her gown sighed and left her bare-breasted for a, pardon the pun, flash, about a thousand photographers were set into a tizzy. But she was nonplussed, simply laughed it off.

Unlike the brouhaha that spiraled around Janet Jackson when her wardrobe “malfunctioned”, neither the actress nor the South of France was in shock. No fines were issued by the censor board. No complaints were filed. She simply put things back in their place and continued to walk down the carpet to the screening of, possibly her most famous film, the Bond flick, The World is Not Enough.

All of 32 films old, with exceptional French films in her cinematic CV, when asked if she minds being known simply as “the Bond girl”, a grin plays on her lips and she says, “It could be worse non? Well, to some people I am the Boum girl, to others the Bond girl – it all depends from where you are. It’s true that the Bond movies have traveled more probably than all the other movies that I’ve ever done and that’s fine. I’m still happy that they, well, you still talk about it!”

Indeed. A very young Marceau was discovered in the French film La Boum (1980) where she starred as Vic Beretton, a teen desperate to attend a party where she hopes to meet her great love. Disapproving parents seem like a plot cliché but only in a French film would the sub plot be the troubled marriage of the teen’s parents – as her father’s ex-girlfriend demands that the man spend an evening with her, much to the dismay of her mother. Did you get all that? Never mind. It's French.

Seated in the deep pocket of a sofa at the basement of the store, its hard to believe that its been over twenty-six years since her debut and this year, the actress turns 40. When asked what she plans to do, she says, “I think I will take some time off. Go away somewhere. Far away from everything, I tell everyone that I have an appointment, an appointment with myself! I have been acting and, well, I just finished a film that I directed and I’m in the middle of editing it but I will take a break.”

Apart from acting in films, she has written and directed three and written a semi-autobiographical novel, Telling Lies. When the book came out in 2001, she said, "It's so attractive, too attractive. Your writing becomes more real than your reality. Acting is contained - you act for three months, then leave it - but writing is the act of creation. Writing is dangerous."

On top of all this, the mother of two was also chosen as the official model for Marianne, a national emblem of France. Quite literally the French icon, she says it was part of the appeal as to why she signed up with the brand, “This is wonderful to travel with our French culture and tradition in the world. I was the ambassador for Chaumet for years and to add my name with something so French has been very good. I’m very proud of this association. It’s a nice friendly love story and it’s amazing to think that I’ve been with them for five or six years.”

Many would be surprised to know that she’s been to our smog-filled shores several times, “I have come to Hong Kong often – it seems to be growing non-stop, there’s a lot of energy coming out of here. A lot of speed. Its spreading out and its amazing. I know very little about the city as I’m here always for work and then I fly off but, you know something? I don’t speak Chinese, but it’s very in fashion now in Europe to learn Chinese. I tell my kids to learn Chinese as another language. Chinese films do really well these days in France. More and more it’s very popular. I wish I was a French actress in a Chinese movie!”

Suspicious of if she’s towing the line to the vast circle of local media who applaud and nod politely, a cheeky reporter at the press conference pops the question, “Tell us exactly which Chinese films you’ve liked.”

Without missing a beat, she responds, “Wong Kar Wai has left such a great impression in France. In the Mood for Love of course was a great film and Zhang Zhimou movies I’ve enjoyed. Chinese cinema is very accessible to us. It’s not a very original thing to say, I know, well, for you all here but for us Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon was an experience. The work was amazing, the narrative. And then 2046. Can you let Wong Kar Wai know that I’d like to work with him? Please tell him! And I’ve heard he’s very good with actresses!”

As the crowd laughs politely, I’m reminded of a line from the film First Wives Club, when a spoilt actress [played by Goldie Hawn] exclaims to her dermatologist, “There are only three stages of an actress in Hollywood; babe, district attorney and Driving Miss Daisy.”

Looking at Marceau, seated cross-legged in front of an awe-struck audience, rest-assured even the fresh graduate interns whisper, “What a babe!” While most actresses cower and lie blatantly about their age and hide behind cosmetic assistance, Marceau remains confident and striking. Well, striking in many ways. Just after the release of Titanic, Leonardo DiCaprio mentioned that he was a big fan. She didn’t send her agents to get herself signed up with box-office’s golden boy. She simply exclaimed, "What is he, 13 or 11? Perhaps I could play his nanny."

When in town, her wit was always at hand. Resplendent in a multi-linked necklace, she looks like she would sit well in a glass enclosed display-case herself. Like a precious doll. The nature of the job entailed that she speak about the brand and she says, “My affair has been very faithful! I’m very faithful to my jewellery. I am faithful to Chaumet for years. I have little pieces, that are very important to me. I have a ring, a watch which I’ve worn for 20 years. I have a lot of different kinds of jewellery but these are two that are close to my heart. Jewellery has an association quality that other things can’t have perhaps. You know it may be chic to say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend but… well, I don’t think so! That would be quite sad non?”

She laughs.

“If they are given by someone you love, if it has a meaning, that’s dear to your heart it was meaningfully given then that’s great."

As a mother of young girls, when asked if she shares her diamonds with them, she says, “I wouldn’t buy jewelry for my children, they are young, but I hope to pass it on to them one day. I would hope they’d like it as much as I did.”

As her film Trivial, which Marceau wrote and directed, is set for release early next year, the actress isn’t waiting for Hollywood or the French film industry to come knocking at her door and she’s creating opportunities for herself. Not that she’s given up life in front of the camera either. She is all set to appear in Les Femmes de L’Ombre next year. As she notably said at a press conference, "Acting is wonderful therapy for people. Instead of suffering for yourself, someone will do it for you!"

Chaumet is now open in Central, Hong Kong.

Let 'em eat cake!

A feature I did a loooooong time ago....

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Credit Control

Hong Kong's fashion fetish is obvious; we're definitely a designer-dud-dreaming, couture-clad mad generation (or wish to be). The laws imposed by the government should be damned, people will stand in over-crowded trains, and shove and jostle across a ridiculously packed border crossing to Shenzhen to get their hands on something that looks like it has been plucked straight off the pages of a magazine.

But there is a better way to satisfy the designer craving.

With Christmas soon upon us, there are some of the most coveted labels in town and there are things out there that are very affordable.

For the budget - and brand-conscious - shopper, there is a cornucopia of a recognisable knick-knacks to impress fussy loved ones.


Loco for Coco

Mabel Yeung, from Chanel, assures label-cravers there are trinkets in their five Hong Kong outlets that need not stretch one's credit card to snapping point. Accessories such as braclets, lockets, wrist and/or headbands or a toweling sports kit (all with the emblematic interlocking Cs) fall under $1,000.

For those who can stretch to a bit more, the square, ode-to-70s shades ($1,500) or the Coco-cool leather belt ($1,600) could put that extra twinkle in someone's eye this festive season.



Blanc & write

Inspired by the glow of animal eyes, Montblanc's jewelled pen - set in platinum, white gold and silver - gives the writing hand a look worthy of a Pulitzer, even if the written words fall short.

Here is an instrument that wants you to divorce the keyboard and find a thick sheet of creamy paper, immediately. True, it is a bit heavy on the wrist and on the wallet, but the gem of a pen is yours for $8,500 (the smaller version with gold Palmeira Citrine draws a fine line at $6,800). But rest assured that it is a gift that can last a lifetime, not just the current season.

For artists and architects, Montblanc's stocky Leonardo sketch pen ($1,500) will be handy tool. With a soft, 5.5mm thick lead that comes with a sharpened integrated head (there by keeping the tip perennially sharp), it carries the white star and gold-ringed signature look, and comes in an elegant leather pouch.

Be wise and organise

Running late yet again? Missed the flight? The deadline? The date? Do yourself or a friend a favour and get an organiser. If a digital, battery-operated gadget simply does not do it for you, perhaps you should check out Cartier's organiser collection.

These soft leather books are clad with precious metals, and there are over dozen styles available. The gilt-edged small pocket organiser ($1,250) of burgundy calfskin could easily substitute for a wallet - there is enough room for paperwork and pouches for credit-cards. The larger Pasha line ($1,250), black leather with a logo in 18-caret white gold, are for busier bees.

Black, white and red all over

Even if Madonna swears by rhinestone-studded belts with the large bull-and-horn centre clasps that are every bit as subtle as she is, rest assured it is just an evanescent trend being belted out by the effervescent diva. Nothing beats the old black classic, especially when it is by Armani. The slick strips of premium leather, with silver clasps, range from $890-$1,490.


Emporio Armani's Fall/Winter collection is a return to simple sophistication without a sparkle or vulgar colour in sight. For the ladies, a range of efficient, unassuming black purses is up for grabs at any of the four outlets in Hong Kong. Prices begin at $2,500 and end in five figure numerals. Thin is in (was it ever out?) when it comes to straps on sandals, bags or even watches. The winter look is all black and white--with flashes of red in belts, shoes (including men's) and purses. Even the jewellery collection is predominantly black. Earrings, simple string necklaces and other accessories range from $690-$1,400. Soft leather or suede gloves come in neoclassic shades of brown, black or white at $800-$900.



Cuddling up to the leather boys

The unmistakable look of Salvatore Ferragamo in shoes, bags, wallets and belts, made of premium leather, has stood the test of time and trend. However, for the impending season, new arrivals in their shops have a softer, cuter and cuddlier look. What can you get for the young or young-at-heart designer slave? The Ferragamo teddy bear, of course. Made of genuine silk, (in fact, they are made from signature scarves from this Florentine fashion house) teddy bears of both sexes (the gentleman bears sport bow-ties, while the lady bears wear bonnets) are already on display in Times Square, and soon every Ferragamo outlet will carry these distinctive designer bears.

They are not fuzzy and cartoonish creatures but brightly coloured, soft-touch accessories more suitable for decoration than being chewed and dribbled on by infants. While the multi-coloured scarves are perennially available (around $1,500 each) the bears are a seasonal specialty ($2,000). Accessories such as silver scarf rings ($700) and colour coordinated hair bands ($400) are also in the offing.

An oval idea

Legend has it that King Edward VII provided the phrase that helped launch an advertising campaign that money cannot buy: "Cartier, jeweller of Kings and King of jewellers." Stamped with their definite look, the company has maintained an unblemished standard since the mid-19th century. One of their most recognisable products in their signature lighter collection (originally introduced in 1968) and just in time for Christmas, a sparkling new selection has been released to style-seekers.


The oval shaped, invisibly-hinged lighters come in black with gold or platinum finish, as well as the standard monochromatic gold or platinum. Prices range from $1,950 to $2,400. They can be engraved upon request.

A crystal ball

As you watch Satine, the "Sparkling Diamond" in Moulin Rouge, trapeze down to the stage crooning "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend" in one of cinema's glitziest entries, take note that she was in fact glittering in Swarovski crystals. Ditto Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina Fair and Grace Kelly in High Society.

With outlets scattered around town, Swarovski has already placed their Christmas collection on sale. The winter specials, such as the crystal Christmas tree, capped with a gold-plated star ($850), the reindeer ($1,275), angel ($1,460) or the little Santa ($1,960) are decorative pieces for the collectors. Their faux-diamond jewellery collection ranges from $450-$1,500. An earring and pendant set can easily fallunder $1,000, and the snowflake brooch, this season's main attractionss, is just $700.