Shine in sequins: where to buy dazzling skirts, from high street to high end
Plus, sculpt your silhouette with corset belts for all budgets
I’m desperate for a fabulous sequinned skirt for Christmas. What to choose?
Desperately Sequinning Susan, Pok Fu Lam
The Dictator rules: You might as well have asked, “Where can I find clothes?” Sequin skirts are everywhere. Solid-coloured midis are available at every price point, from H&M (HK$299) to Sally LaPointe (HK$11,350; Net-a-Porter), as well as: J. Crew, Michael Kors, Ganni, Mango, and Warehouse. However, if you’re the kind of person who needs it to be a new thing to feel special, then go for a stand-out piece differentiated by its colour, pattern or cut.
Go KiraKira – how to wear metallics and sparkles
So corset belts are in fashion, but I’m not sure I’ve seen one. Are they regular corsets worn outside your clothes?
Ripped Bodice, Central
The Dictator: No, silly! That would be too easy. No, no. They want you to buy something else that looks like a corset but is actually a belt. It probably costs more than a corset, has fewer slimming functions, and looks slightly more presentable. Sold? Despite our enduring cynicism, we are rather in love with the non-literal interpretations available.
Rock and romance: feminine silhouettes with an edgy attitude
Alexander McQueen’s is a sculptural masterpiece in panels of leather that cinch the waist then curve over the hips (HK$9,310 and up). Alaïa has been making spectacular corset belts from the brand’s distinctive, laser-cut leather for years (HK$8,419 to HK$9,523). And we are obsessed with Loewe’s leather obi belts (HK$6,013 and up), which were not designed as corsets but have a similar effect. Crafted from tan, bright blue or black napa calfskin, it ties high on the waist and then flares out over the hips like a peplum.
Zimmermann takes it more literally, but still tastefully, with its ultra-wide corset belt in rose, cognac or black snake-embossed calf leather with curved edges and matching leather ties at the waist (HK$3,871). You may have also seen the corset belts with lacing at the front, zip pockets and silver-tone hardware in deep red suede or black leather by Unravel Project (HK$6,708 to HK$7,417; Net-a-Porter).
OK. We know these are pricey. The cost-conscious you can strap themselves into perfectly attractive corset belts by Asos, BCBG and others for as little as HK$188. Alternatively, your favourite erotic brand will definitely have something for you. We’re not kidding. Try Kiki de Montparnasse, Fleur du Mal or Maze.