Topman

It all started at Harajuku in 2006. I was lucky enough to be there in Tokyo when the first ever branch of Topshop/​Topman was opened in Asia. I didn’t know that it was a big deal back 8 years ago, of course, when I was just roaming around Harajuku.
This UK brand impressed me immediately. Simple, easy wearing, and the choice of colour is unique. And swear to god, I haven’t been wearing any clothes or shirts with a big arse logo on my chest for my life. I pay for what I wear already, so I’m not going to be your portable ad billboard. Topman never does it, which adds to the reason that I like it so much.
It was there in Singapore, then it was there in Sydney. Again I was lucky enough to be there when it opened. Then it was Shenzhen, and it drove people mad to have it in China first before Hong Kong. But on the side, I was glad it hadn’t come to HK just yet, as it would soon be over-​worn by everyone once they’re here.
Finally Topshop was here, and Topman followed soon after. I was disappointed, in a way I already expected so. First, everything was overpriced. Yeah rent is expensive in HK, but I hate to know that I can get the same thing much cheaper even in Singapore or Japan. Second, designs and choices of colour were compromised, or adjusted, to fit into the so-​called HK vibe. Which also means that they give up the uniqueness of its brand, and that was also why I walked through the shop once, and remembered none of the clothes they had in display.
Two stars maybe a bit harsh, but it is a brand I loved for more than 8 years, so I guess that’s justified.
Way to go Topman, I’ll come back for your winter/​spring selection to see if you have improved.