Travelle Goes To Hong Kong With Denise Lai

What are some general tips you would share with women travellers to Hong Kong in the fall, especially considering the humidity and pollution levels?

Weather in Hong Kong during the Fall is definitely still kind of warm, with the exception of the refridgerator-cold-level air conditioning whenever you're indoors. So I highly suggest wearing layers! Just a simple tshirt or lightweight top and a sweater or light jacket in your bag would be perfect. If you're planning to do anything crazy outdoors (like a hike, which is super popular in Hong Kong), then obviously bring a change of clothes for when you're out, a small towel and lots of water! 

What would you recommend a lady wear to work meetings? 

For work meetings, it really depends on what kind of work or meeting it is! For myself, if I'm meeting a client, I'll go for some trusty black pants/trousers with a black silk top or crewneck sweater. I don't have to attend many corporate meetings myself but I love a good black pencil skirt with a light cashmere crewneck (maybe in light grey). 

Are there any specific pieces/brands that you love right now for a Fall work wardrobe? 

I'm really excited about & Other Stories and the new COS fall collection (both brands under H&M's megagroup!). I'm excited to wear this new Silk bomber jacket I got from my favourite Japanese brand Undercover and a new quilted cotton oversized jacket I got from Isabel Marant.

How would you describe the local street style? What do local women wear on a day to day basis?

Hong Kong street style is very trendy and there are quite a few distinct styles you see daily. There's tons of people in the all black Rick Owens type of category. Since Hong Kong is such a working and business orientated city, the women still dress very fashionable sort of J.Crew style with lots of pencil skirts or cute a-line skirts always paired with a beautiful hand bag. Because it's always so hot there, there's plenty of culottes and skirts with basic tees and jackets for layering!

What staple pieces do you pack for a work or leisure trip?

I live in black jeans or trousers so I'll always bring one of each and since I'm mostly a t-shirt kinda girl, I'll pack a few black ones just incase. I always wear sneakers when I travel in case I'm late for my flight and need to run a little. 

Any evening outfits you'd recommend for an autumn dinner or drinks? 

I just like to throw on a simple dress and call it a day. Something light and easy with a cute handbag!

When it comes to beauty products, what should a woman bring to HK specifically?

The most essential beauty product you need is sunblock. My routine includes a sunblock after my face moisturizer and when it comes to make up, I use a tinted moisturizer that also has SPF included. The sun can get really strong in Hong Kong so it's best to protect your skin! Also I prefer using a tinted moisturizer instead of straight up foundation because it's much lighter when your face gets kinda steamy or sweaty?

What are some popular exercise studios you recommend for staying healthy?

Some of my friends are opening up a new exercise studio called TOPFIT!

Do you have favourite healthy places to eat?  

Some healthier options in HK are Grassroots Pantry, Mana and Pololi.

Any places to stay with great facilities, a spa, great beauty products etc?

For all my beauty and skincare products, I'll go to Lane Crawford or Joyce Beauty, the perfect one stop shop for everything. One of my favorite spas is Flawless, just love the interior and the service there!