Wudai-Shiguo: Hong Kong's most talked-about retro store
What 2012 Hong Kong can learn from 1930s Americana at WDSG's new shop
By Hiufu Wong
Wudai-Shiguo, better known as WDSG, is one of the most talked-about new shops that opened this week in Hong Kong's hottest indie shopping area, the Star Street neighborhood.
It's the passion project of six local designers who dismiss all the icons of Hong Kong as "clichés."
"People think that Hong Kong means egg tarts, or when it comes to design it means the red, white and blue bags," says Kenji Wong, creative director of WDSG. "I don't think so."
Instead, Wong and the WDSG team are into 1930s Americana.
WDSG sells near-historically accurate reproductions of furniture from the United States and clothing by Mister Freedom and Ralph Lauren Leather.
"During the 1920s to 1930s, skilled workers were respected and things were built to last," says Wong. "Today in Hong Kong, most people are just smart alecks who want to earn a lot of money with little effort."
Wong hopes that the furniture he sells will be long-lasting and of good craftsmanship. Most of it is produced in India from reclaimed materials.
They are also planning to introduce a trade-in system, so customers can return aged furniture that was purchased at WDSG and get a new piece for a discounted price.
"We do not encourage simple consumerism. You are welcome to sit down and have a chat here," says Wong. "We want you to buy the lifestyle and be part of it."
WDSG is best known in Hong Kong as a design company for stage productions and music companies. Their recent projects includes pop star Khalil Fong's album cover.
Wudai-Shiguo, 9B, St. Francis St., Wanchai, opens daily 9 a.m.-8 p.m., +852 2528 3800, www.wudai-shiguo.com
Hiufu Wong loves traveling and having the journalist's privilege to hear the personal stories of people who live in Hong Kong.
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Discover everything you really need to know about traveling to China….in less than one hour!
Five years ago I arrived in China with Zero knowledge of Chinese culture and etiquette. To be honest, I felt lost and out of place. I read through a bunch of thick guidebooks and received tons of tips on where to travel and what hotels to stay in –but it was all rather overwhelming. There was so much information to sort through.
What I really wanted was someone to tell me only the most useful and practical information. I wanted succinct and to-the-point summaries on traveling in China, doing business in China, and Chinese culture and etiquette. Despite The China Travel Companion's compact size, the guide includes all of the most useful and practical information I have discovered from my years of experience here.
This is the book I wish I had when I first traveled to China. Whether you are coming to China for touring, living, study, or doing business….I designed this book for you.
Here's a sample of what you'll find in The China Travel Companion:
- The importance of first impressions... and how to create one when meeting people in China.
-Why, in China, your personal appearance is especia! lly impo rtant.
- What you must do before arriving in China and traveling within the country.
For the most part, China is a very safe country. However, I'll give you some simple -- but important -- safety tips to observe.
- Understanding Chinese table etiquette, social drinking, and the culture. You'll learn the biggest do's and don'ts.
- Key aspects to attending Chinese business dinner banquets.
- Why personal relationships are so important for doing business in China.
- Practical tips on doing business with Chinese businessmen... and how to give yourself an advantage. (Hint: The small things count!)
- The concept of 'Face' and why it's so important.
- How to bargain in the Chinese markets. Some great deals are available... once you understand how to bargain with the merchants.
- How and where to get cell phone service in China. (This is essential info!)
- What you MUST understand before traveling to rural areas of China.
- The topics you should avoid speaking about.
- Must-know info about tipping, therapeutic massages, enjoying the Chinese nightlife... and much more!
Important phrases you need to know while traveling in China. (Hint: A few key phrases can go a long way!)
- A list of important resources... including info about useful phone numbers and embassies. Plus... helpful websites and iPhone apps (that you won't want to be without).
And much more...
Enjoy!
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