Divia’s D’Vine

We’re so excited to be interviewing fashion journalist Divia Harilela, former Fashion Editor of the South China Morning Post and founder of D’Vine, Hong Kong’s brand new luxury fashion site (and location of her famous “Hot or Not” column!)…

Why have you decided to start The D’Vine?

Asia (especially China) is such an important market for the luxury industry, and I really felt that there wasn’t any blog out there that provided an Asian perspective on the topic while also addressing the fun part, such as trends, must-haves, etc.   For that reason, I wanted to create a blog that appealed to everyone from industry insiders to regular folk that love fashion. Besides, I needed somewhere to print my “What’s Hot, What’s Not” column!

Do you read any particular fashion blogs yourself? Which are your absolute favourites?

I used to love street style blogs but now they seem irrelevant as everyone has one (or aspires to have one!). I prefer to read blogs that are more industry focused such as Business of Fashion.

How would you describe your personal style?

Anna Dello Russo I am not! I am not the type of person that wears trends head-to-toe. I prefer well-made, beautiful and timeless classics that have some sort of twist or edgy detail. My favourite designers include Yves Saint Laurent, Dries Van Noten, Rick Owens, Maison Martin Margiela, Vanessa Bruno, Lanvin, Tabla and Sharon Wauchob.

Do you have any (preferably cheap and cheerful) shopping secrets in Hong Kong you could share with Sassy?

This is hard one – besides, the place wouldn’t be a secret if I divulged!!! I do send a lot of friends to JDC (Wellington Street) – they have some cool Korean brands at a great price. There are some fantastic shops on Granville Circuit in TST as well.

If you could make it through Spring/Summer 2011 with only one handbag and one pair of shoes, what would you pick?

Another hard one. I have my eye on the Celine Zip Around bag (above), again another future classic. As for shoes, I am thinking a colourful pair of pumps from Rupert Sanderson.

Midi skirts… discuss! Can mere mortals (i.e. anyone under 6 foot) make them work?

The key in pulling off any trend is confidence (naff but true). The right length and shape are important – mid calf can look sexy if it’s a pencil skirt a la naughty secretary. Anything too voluminous will look mumsy. If you are short, wear it with heels (pumps or wedges) to create a leaner silhouette. Anything style longer than mid-calf, has to be worn super tight and with flats.

How would you describe Hong Kong fashion in 10 words or less?

Brand obsessed, commercial, eclectic and experimental all at once. You can almost find anything here!

Who in your opinion has impeccable style?

It’s so personal as everyone relates to different people. I always think Cate Blanchett and Julianne Moore look fantastic. I like Kate Moss and Chloe Sevigny’s style too, but it doesn’t translate for everyone. Ahn Doung (above) always looks great.

If we were to take a peek in your wardrobe, what would we find enormous numbers of?

Shoes and Chanel handbags.

What is your fashion holy grail?

Finding the perfect pair of flats.

What item of clothing is emphatically NOT HOT for Spring/Summer?

Tiered maxi skirts or dresses. Why do Hong Kong women love them so much?