Getting ready for a special occasion is no easy task. But to help you along the way – and to put a little enjoyment back into shopping – we’re lending a hand with our guide to the best dress shops in the city. Whether you’re after a wedding guest outfit, a special birthday dress or a black tie option, we’ve rounded up a list of where to find formal and semi-formal dresses, online and in store in Hong Kong.
If pretty is your thing, allow us to point you in the direction of Hong Kong-based fashion brand Aleshia. From sleek LBDs to whimsical star-tinged prints, you’ll be spoilt for choice with Aleshia’s gorgeous selection of party dress designs. Modern with a feminine twist, there really is something for every mood and occasion in the collection. What’s more, Aleshia prides itself on balancing high quality with affordability. That means you don’t have to feel bad about sneaking that extra dress into your basket! Shop online now or head to the Aleshia showroom for a fitting appointment (walk-ins are welcome!).
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Aleshia, 19/F, CS Tower, 50 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2276 0080, [email protected], www.myaleshia.com,
www.facebook.com/myaleshia, www.instagram.com/myaleshia
Known as the online destination for luxury fashion, NET-A-PORTER will no doubt have you covered when on the hunt for a special occasion piece. Brands on offer run at a slightly higher price point, but quality is guaranteed, it’s also worth keeping an eye out for NET-A-PORTER’s seasonal sales, where you’ll be sure to bag some incredible bargains. The customer service is also unparalleled, offering next day delivery for just $50 and free returns and exchanges!
NET-A-PORTER, www.net-a-porter.com
At ASOS, it’s easy to try the trends without breaking the bank. There are thousands of pieces to choose from, along with an extensive range of lingerie, swimwear, shoes, accessories, jewellery and cosmetics (just make sure you check the items carefully, as not everything can be shipped to HK). For dresses, there are petite, plus-size and maternity ranges. Check out its bridesmaid range and wedding guest dress edit for some reasonably-priced occasion pieces. If something isn’t quite right, ASOS also offers free returns, making it a breeze to choose from a range of sizes and styles.
ASOS, www.asos.com
Read more: Top Fashion Websites With FREE Delivery To Hong Kong
You no longer need to be a bride to indulge in wedding day fashion. One of Hong Kong’s premiere bridal stores, Designer Bridal Room, offers exceptional couture from some of the biggest names in fashion (think Valentino, Zuhair Murad and Jenny Packham). The experts here pride themselves on offering the highest quality and exclusive service. Glamorous, elegant and sophisticated with an eye for trends and a commitment to quality in all products, the women at Designer Bridal Room know how to make you feel as magnificent as you should on your big day, without needing to say “I do!”.
Designer Bridal Room, 2nd Floor, Blissful Building, 243 – 247 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong, designerbridalroom.com.hk
One of Hong Kong’s most established names in bespoke tailoring; Shanghai Tang is at the forefront for quality craftsmanship. If you’re in search of something that exudes Oriental glam and makes a statement that is at steeped in heritage, then the luxe silks, embroidered florals and traditional qipao silhouettes from Shanghai Tang are for you. Though it’s on the pricy side, the brand promises timeless quality. Step inside a world of luxury at the Hong Kong boutiques located in Central, Tsim Sha Tsui and Admiralty.
Shanghai Tang, multiple locations across Hong Kong, www.shanghaitang.com
Read more: Here’s Why It’s Worth Spending On Investment Pieces
This contemporary London based brand found its way to Hong Kong in 2017, with stores located in both Pacific Place and Harbour City. We love its collection of timeless pieces, that manage to be elegant, edgy and undoubtedly cool. The casual slogan tees and luxe leather pieces will always be favourites, but you can’t go wrong with Whistles’ occasion wear collection either, stocking everything from romantic dresses to modern tailoring, it’s sure to get you noticed.
Whistles, Shop 2201-2, Level 2, Harbour City, Gateway Arcade, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Whistles, Shop 120A, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong, www.whistles.com
While trends may come and go, the timeless outfits at Reiss convey longevity and classic sophistication. Think: soft, feminine cuts and fabrics that drape the body rather than wear it. The romantic looks feature florals, ruffles, and elongated silhouettes to effortlessly take you from day to night (a win in a city that never sleeps). Quite literally fit for royalty, this place is a favourite of the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. Reiss is a brand steeped in over four decades of couture and provides its clients with unwavering design and quality.
Reiss, multiple locations across Hong Kong, www.reiss.com
If you’re worried about spending a small fortune on a dress, or if you’ve left it too late to order online, consider renting instead. Founded in 2009, Mariée Bridal Couture offers a great range of gowns, prom and cocktail dresses, that’ll definitely stand out in a crowd. The collection is inspired by a combination of fashion and new street trends, so you’ll find plenty of variety to purchase or rent. The team works to your budget, so make sure you contact them and book an appointment to get a free trial.
Mariée Bridal Couture, 9/F Galuxe Building, 8 On Lan Street Central, Hong Kong, ww.mariee.com.hk
Fashion can really take a toll on the environment so it’s crucial that we begin questioning the impact of fast fashion. Central St. Martins graduate Sarah Fung went on a mission to help when she founded HULA: an online marketplace for pre-owned designer womenswear. HULA is an incredible business model; a virtual retailer that promotes sustainable fashion through re-selling couture at almost 95% markdown, with 5% of profit going to charity. The (re)cyclical nature makes sure that pieces in prime condition are given a second shelf life, promoting less fashion waste. Throw in some of the most covetable names in fashion (from Gucci to Alexander McQueen and Giambattista Valli to Chloé to name a few) and an array of bags, shoes, jewellery and of course, evening wear, and you’ve got us hooked.
HULA, by-appointment only studio in Wong Chuk Hang and available online at www.thehula.com
Another site that’s perfect if you’re looking to cut down on fast-fashion purchases and shop a little more ethically is Vestiaire. The online shopping haven not only stocks an extensive, yet curated, selection of pre-loved luxe labels, but leaves us safe in the knowledge that every single piece sold has been rigorously authenticated, ensuring the purchases you make are 100% genuine and worth the investment. As new stock is always being added, there’s always something else to find, with an array of designer dresses to choose from for your next occasion.
Vestiaire Collective, www.vestiairecollective.com
With affordable brands, easy shipping and almost every style under the sun, Zalora is a reliable online option for many Hong Kongers. An easy one-stop shop for your next special occasion; the online site offers everything from fun and flirty styles, to high-end designers, high street favourites, and everything in between, so you’re sure to find something to suit your style. With so many gorgeous outfits well under $1,000, the only issue might be narrowing down your favourite!
Zalora, www.zalora.com.hk
The high-end designer store carries everything you need to feel fabulous. With one of the most expansive dress ranges in Hong Kong, this is a place you definitely want to check out before a special occasion. Every designer you can think of is stocked at this department store – although your wallet might not thank you for it later! You’ll find local designers, global labels and more.
Lane Crawford, multiple locations across Hong, www.lanecrawford.com
ZARA is always our go-to for everything from casual day time pieces, to value-for-money workwear and on trend accessories, so it’s no surprise that we also turn to the brand when we’re looking for something a little more formal. With many styles available, you may have to hunt a little through the huge selection of dresses available online, or head in store to check out the latest pieces.
Zara, multiple locations across Hong Kong, www.zara.com
Much like ZARA, H&M is a great option for on-trend fashion pieces that won’t break the bank. Although many of its styles are a little more casual, in recent years the brand has upped the ante when it comes to more formal occasion wear. We’re fans of its Conscious Collection of sustainably made pieces, but there are plenty of dresses, skirts and tops to choose from online and in store – not to mention the huge array of jewellery and accessories!
H&M, multiple locations across Hong Kong, www2.hm.com
Started in 2003, Revolve stocks over 500 brands online, so we dare you to find something not to love! The easy to to use site makes it simple to filter and find exactly what you’re looking for, with luxe brands on offer such as FAITHFULL THE BRAND, Free People, LoveShackFancy, Zimmerman and more. Plus, you can get free shipping to Hong Kong on all orders over USD100.
Revolve, www.revolve.com
Much like Revolve, Shopbop stcoks a wealth of brands for you to shop online, along with offering free shipping to Hong Kong on orders over USD100. We love checking out the “Best-Dressed Guest” edit for hassle-free occasion wear shopping, ensuring that you’re covered for not only your dress, but your shoes, accessories and jewellery too!
Shopbop, www.shopbop.com
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in April 2017 by Lydia Rose, updated in June 2018 by Nina Brooklyn Brown, and most recently updated on 11, July 2019.
