THE JOURNAL
If you’re one to lament the inescapable nature of Valentine’s Day with its giant red hearts, cheesy greeting cards and restaurants booked out with candle-lit romantic dinners, then you’ll be delighted to learn about Singles’ Day.
Now popular in most Southeast Asian countries, Singles’ Day was first celebrated at Nanjing University in the early 1990s by a small group of college bachelors – which gave it its original name, Bachelors’ Day – as an ironic response to traditional couple-centric festivities. Today, the yearly holiday provides those who don’t get to celebrate Valentine’s Day with an opportunity to treat themselves in the name of self-care.
So, if you don’t have a partner to exchange luxurious gifts with in February, don’t worry, you’ll be justified in indulging in whatever tickles your fancy in November (or any other month of the year, as far as we’re concerned). To give you some inspiration, we’ve asked three of our Hong Kong-based Personal Shoppers to pick the perfect Singles’ Day gift – just read on.
01.
Mr Robbie Du, Personal Shopping Manager, APAC
Having been with MR PORTER for seven years, I think I’m almost running out of self-gifting options. However, I’ve had something on my Wish List for a while now and this might be the excuse I’ve been looking for. I’ve had my eyes on Foundrae’s medallion since they first launched at MR PORTER. I tried them on at our Style Suite in Hong Kong last month and they are absolutely perfect. The antique-feel pendants add a unique touch of character to any look. So I guess this is it, it’s time to treat myself to something nice this Singles’ Day.
Try these
02.
Mr Euan Argyle, Personal Shopper, APAC
The idea of Singles’ Day is a tricky one when you’re coupled up. But in practice, self-indulgence should always be something on our mind as we all need to love ourselves. Nothing says “self-love” to me quite like a suede jacket from TOM FORD – suede that’s amply soft and in a cut that shows a level of sophistication that only Mr Tom Ford can achieve. For the single man, or at least the self-indulgent, this is an investment piece that you’ll love forever. So, go ahead, treat yourself.
Try these
03.
Mr Kent Chen, Senior Personal Shopper, APAC
For me, Singles’ Day is like another Valentine’s Day to celebrate together with my other half. The first thing that comes to mind is to spend time watching Netflix at home with a glass of wine (or two) while wrapping ourselves in a soft blanket. As luxurious as the brand’s clothing, this Brunello Cucinelli two-tone throw – hand-crafted in Italy from plush cashmere – feels like the perfect choice. I can already imagine swaddling myself in it on Singles’ Day and beyond.