The shopping landscape in Hong Kong can be summarized in two words: Mall Madness. Besides high-end places like Pacific Place and IFC, the city also has a plethora of “Mini Malls” — tiny local boutiques hidden underground or in converted industrial buildings. These jam-packed gems are convenient if you’re looking for a trendy top or a trinket for a friend, but they can be equally overwhelming due to the sheer number of them. Here is a bite-sized guide to help you stay sane while shopping.
1. Island Beverley Centre
Probably the most well-known local mall on the Hong Kong side, IB is the go-to for all things trendy (you can’t throw a rock without hitting an off-the-shoulder top, the hottest piece this season). This well-lit, well-ventilated blogger-style heaven is one of the most comfortable to shop in. Hit up Color Grand for every kind of white top you’ll ever need, October 1 for chic slip ons and handbags or Shop My Room for a unique edit of sun hats and mini bags.
1 Great George Street, Causeway Bay, www.islandbeverley.com.hk.
2. La Foret
Adjacent to IB is this pink-walled maze of trendy boutiques, but with a more feminine touch. Here you can find relaxed work-wear in the form of loose blouses and culottes from Intique or eclectic dresses from shop 128. But what you really want to hit are the beauty shops upstairs, where you can find discounted Mario Badescu drying lotion from Anthony G. OPI nail polish at half price, anyone?
24-26 East Point Road, Causeway Bay, www.laforet.hk.
3. Causeway Place
Are you a guy in search of the latest? Head up to the second level, where you’ll find edgy tees and stylish button-ups from shops like M E Men or collectible toys from 2078. The ladies can get their jewelry fix at Silver Dynasty and Stone Age downstairs. Compared to the previous two, this mall is not so much for the fashionista as it is for toys and accessories lovers.
2 Great George Street, Causeway Bay, www.causewayplace.hk.
4. Ginza
Tucked underground on Jaffe Road, this shabby mall might seem a little unwelcoming at first, but those who are brave enough to enter will find some of the best accessories and sunglasses for a steal. Check out 發泡膠 (fat bao jong), Chinese for “Styrofoam,” where they have vintage Carolina Herrera frames for $120 and a smorgasbord of costume jewelry, and Modeling Hut, a treasure trove of bijoux, makeup pouches and quirky accessories.
511 Jaffe Road, Causeway Bay.
5. Apple Mall
You might just miss its nondescript entrance on your way to Lee Garden and it’s still not very impressive once inside, as many shops are yet to be filled, but a little shop called Temptation is its best-kept secret. The jewelry boutique sells delicate, artful silver and gold dazzlers that display incredible craftsmanship for under $1,000. Clothing-wise, you’ll find a slightly more mature edit in boutiques here like De Luca and Silver Red.
15-31 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay, www.applemall.com.hk.
6. Rise Commercial Building
This is where the cool girl shops for her statement pieces. Have a chic friend who somehow always manages to find the coolest leather iPhone cases or on-point clutches? She found them here. With men’s suit shops scattered across several stories, each boutique (like Aquinos and its creative yet wearable footwear) has its own character so you’ll definitely leave with a shopping bag in hand.
5-11 Granville Circuit, Tsim Sha Tsui.
7. Beverley Commercial Centre
Not to be confused with Island Beverley, this is where one goes for bespoke evening-wear for less than $1,000 or to rent bridesmaid dresses (JM has the most variety) for just $400 each. Try Birds of Paradise for an elegant touch of sparkle on your gown, or Diva if you want to incorporate some lace. Then find matching silver stilettos and get your hair and makeup done all on the same floor if you’re in a hurry!
87-105 Chatham Road, Tsim Sha Tsui.
8. G Square
As its name suggests, this is not so much a mall as it is a roundabout of window-less boutiques along Granville Road, serving up quality leather pouches and purses from Taylor House, boho-inspired outfits at Como and some K-Pop Star-worthy frames from目屋 (muk uk), “Eye House.”
46-48 Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, www.carltonhk.com.
9. Argyle Center
Fast fashion doesn’t come any faster or cheaper than at Argyle. You’ll find every wash of denim cutoffs or shade of camisoles for as little as $20. This comes at the expense of quality — any dress you find at Amazing will be perfect for a night out at LKF but don’t expect it to survive multiple washes. The good news is, you can go to town on a modish pair of fringe sandals from Choes, or some knick knacks from Milo Box and it will barely make a dent in your wallet.
688 Nathan Road, Mong Kok, argylecentremall.com.
10. Allied Plaza
Its unassuming ground floor belies a cluster of two-person wide shops upstairs, with canvas totes and rubber shoes spilling out from each stall. Prices rival those at Argyle but you’re more likely to find unexpected pieces like a stylish navy duster coat from local brand Both of Us. If you’re short on time, visit Mat, Hola and Double Face for casualwear with a twist or pop of color.
760 Nathan Road, Mong Kok.
