Editor's Note: Introducing a brand new column on LifestyleAsia: "Ask a Stylist". This is the place to get all your Hong Kong fashion-related questions answered by our resident style expert, Jasmine Webster (or, Miss J as she's known to her fans).
Dear Miss J,
I'm simply melting in this humid Hong Kong weather! What are your wardrobe essentials for surviving the hot HOT summer here? Please hurry, this glistening girl can't take it anymore!
Corin
Dear Corin,
This Hong Kong heat is definitely a hindrance and it doesn't seem to want to play nice with us fashionistas. So aside from sticking to air-conditioned places, always carry some tissues to wipe the sweat pre-meeting-and-greeting people and a hair tie to secure your locks up and off your face.
Also, try adding these on-trend yet heat-friendly summer essentials to your wardrobe:
1. Sheer blouse
A current celebrity fave, a sheer blouse is the perfectly ventilated top that can be effortlessly worn with a pair of shorts for a sophisticated look that complements this season's heat. For a more sultry look, try a sheer blouse with a triangle shaped bra, or for a more modest approach, match with a nude tank top.
2. Printed mini
A seriously fab way to work your legs and show off your tan is to get involved with this season's print obsession, and the brighter the better! Minis are heat resistant for the mere fact that they cover the minimal amount, maintaining your modesty but keeping you cool.
3. Shift dress
The shift dress is ideal for Hong Kong heat as it hardly touches your body, reducing the tell-tale sign of sweat patches. It's designed to hang loose with little structure and maximum comfort, so wear it with a lashing of jewellery and my new fave, flatforms!
4. Over-sized boyfriend's shirt
Ideal in terms of comfort, the over-sized boyfriend's shirt is a stylista's staple for this summer. Choose a light cotton fabric to keep it breathable and pair it with some short shorts, tuck it into a maxi skirt or wear it out and over a mini if you like. This is a sure wardrobe essential to keep you covered, comfy and cool.
5. Over-sized John Lennon sunglasses
Think big, think round, think Beatles! The 1960s is resurfacing in the form of sunglasses and the once hippy-styled sunglasses are now urban chic. The darker the lens the better, and what better way to hide those sweat streaks in your make-up than behind a massive pair of sunnies? Definitely a must-have.
That's all for now -- until next time, stay cool and stylish!
Miss J
Do you have some burning Hong Kong fashion questions for Miss J? Send them to her via Twitter @HongKongStylist or email stylist@dressmeblog.me to get them answered on the upcoming editions of "Ask a Stylist".
Jasmine Webster is a fashion stylist and blogger (www.dressmeblog.me) who's all about fashion made REAL for REAL people - still with a bit of glitz and glamour to keep things interesting along the way.
