Valentino

48 HOURS IN HONG KONG BY JASMIN HOWELL


There is something which draws me to big cities - I love the hustle and bustle, the sounds the sights and Hong Kong is no exception.










I've returned to Hong Kong for only my second visit and I feel even more in love with this cosmopolitan city. I'm working on a new passion project, that sees me experience some of the best sights, sounds, tastes and style my favourites cities have to offer in just 48 hours.

If you have any Hong Kong tips - please send them my way either via instagram / twitter @friendinfashion or EMAIL me. I'd love to include all your favourites as well!

I can't WAIT to share more of this, and all of my travel tips with you soon - be sure to stay tuned for more coming really soon.


The location was perfect - right in the heart of the action and only from Hong Kong's biggest shopping mall - Harbour City! Valentino and Balenciaga were at the top of my shopping list.

Much love to my amazing French makeup artist and photographer who spent a gorgeous balmy evening running around the streets of Hong Kong.





SHOP THE CITY, MELBOURNE


As I’m sure you would agree, the lead up to Christmas, with what to buy, where to shop, and who to buy for, can be overwhelming. With this in mind, I’m going to take you on a tour of some of my favourite places to shop when in Melbourne and share with you some of my top gift selections for the festive season. 


For me, my first (and only stop), when it comes to Chrissy shopping in Melbourne, is the City. And to make things easier, iconic Melbourne shopping destinations: Melbourne Central, Emporium Melbourne, QV Melbourne, The Strand Melbourne, Melbourne’s GPO, Myer and David Jones are joining forces to offer extended trade, free parking and more in the lead up to Christmas!

Each within walking distance of one another, you have your choice of Malls, Department Stores and boutiques (over 1000 in total), carrying most, if not all the brands that you desire.

To kick off the tour, we head to Emporium Melbourne, where my first stop is always Dion Lee. This is where you are guaranteed to find that extra special wardrobe addition for the fashionista in your life. My top pick's - Dion’s signature 3D filter jacket and leather biker jacket. Guaranteed to impress!

When in Emporium, I also like to swing by Kate Spade for some conversation-worthy statement accessories. This pom pom hat and Mr & Mrs clutch are gifts that will definitely be remembered. 





Next up, is The Strand Melbourne, and a must for lovers of bright, quirky and colourful, is Gorman. My top pick is this beautiful bright pink sweater and contrasting purple shades. The bold and beautiful socks, and accessories make for the perfect Kris Kringle / stocking fillers also.


Now it’s time for a quick recharge, with a coffee (or peppermint tea in my case) at my favourite little nook at the Melbourne's GPO – Federal Coffee Palace. If you’re in need of something a bit more substantial, I love Mama's Buoi for some tasty Vietnamese treats!


Then onto QV Melbourne, where one of my favourite boutiques, Incu offers all of the best brands from Acne to Isabel Marant. You can’t go past these Rag and Bone fedora’s for a great gift. A small hop across the lane and you also have Incu for men, to pick up something for the special men in your life. Republic Boutique is another great store for the gents, great street-wear and sneaker collections featuring Kenzo to Yeezy. 

Next up, on my Shop The City tour is Melbourne Central.
Bul is great for women who appreciate more classic, minimalist design. I love this pinafore dress as a top pick.
For chocolate lovers, Kit Kat have a pop-up store which allows you to create and order your own, personalised Kit Kat creations (delicious!). And, for all the beauty and makeup lovers, a visit to Melbourne Central’s newest addition, Sephora is an absolute must. I wrapped up my action-packed day of shopping with a mini-makeover – there perfect way to end the day!



And finally, for the high-end designer lover, a visit to the major department stores - Myer or David Jones is always a good starting point. 
My top gift pick (from David Jones) are these incredible cuffs from Valentino – the Rock Stud sandals won’t go astray either. If Valentino isn’t to your taste, indulge in brands including Chloe, Proenza Schouler and Saint Laurent to name a few.

If you're having difficulty narrowing down your selection, head to Myer, who are offering a personal shopping service which will help you take the guess work out of choosing the perfection present.


If you stick to my itinerary when approaching the daunting task of Christmas shopping, you’re guaranteed to find something for everyone, all within walking distance of each other – best of all, you can knock off all of your Chrissy shopping in one hit, so never fear if you’ve left your shopping to the last minute. 





STREET STYLE | TRAVEL ESSENTIALS



As a fashion and travel blogger, style and technology go hand in hand.

When packing for a trip, I'm drawn to quality pieces that not only look great, but will also stand the test of time.

Here are a few of my travel essentials.

STYLE ESSENTIALS

+ Comfy shoes - for all travel and transit well worn in flats are essential. At the moment, my Valentino rockstuds are on high rotation. Once I hit the street, a pair of classic black pumps take-over.

+ Travel bag - a great small cross body bag is another essential of mine. Chanel is my everyday go-to. I love a cross-body style when travelling because it is a more secure option and it also leaves your hands free for signing documents, handling cash, or importantly taking that perfect photo.

+ Sunglasses - a classic oversized style is a saviour after a 16hr flight, especially when your eyes are a little worse for wear. Prada cat eyes are my style of choice.


TECHNOLOGY ESSENTIALS

+ Quality headphones - these are a MUST for all flights and will not only help you enjoy your inflight entertainment in style, but they are essential for blocking out additional cabin noise. 

BOSE are my go-to headphones every time, I love their styling - they are sleek and compact (great space-savers when packing) AND best of all they are bluetooth compatible, which means I don't have to rely on cords or cables.

+ Laptop & Camera - I don't travel anywhere (even for a day), without my laptop and camera. I always shoot on a Nikon, and rotate between my DSLR and compact cameras depending on my destination and how long I'm away for.

+ Portable speaker - This BOSE SoundLink portable speaker is the newest addition to my carry on and I am in love! It's small and compact, which is extremely practical for travel, and, as with the headphones, these also operate via bluetooth.

I love that I can now take my tunes down to the beach or pool and the sound is absolutely incredible - perfect for an impromptu summer beach party.

What are your travel essentials?

I'm wearing: Bose headphones, Zara knit, Seven For All Mankind jeans, Jimmy Choo pumps, Chanel wallet on chain


In partnership with Bose.