Lianne Lam, a regular on the social circuit and a frequent entry on our best-dressed lists, talks about style, her most memorable fashion experience and the perks of being a loyal client

One look at Lianne Lam—taking in her immaculate hair and make-up, her tailored outfits and the attention to detail evident in each and every ensemble—and you can’t help but admire her commitment to always looking her best.

When she’s not busy conquering the legal world—the mother of two is a lawyer at Peabody Nixon CWL—she’s engaged in a hectic schedule of social engagements, often in the company of husband Matthew, not to mention plenty of travel, such as to Paris for Fashion Week and to tour Coco Chanel’s apartment. Here, we talk to Lianne about her sense of style, her go-to designers and the perks of being a loyal client of some of the world’s most powerful fashion houses.

Tatler Asia
Above Lianne Lam on the iconic mirrored staircase at Coco Chanel’s apartment

How would you define your style?

My friends like to label my sense of style as elegant and feminine, but my approach to dressing is to put on something that makes you feel good, makes you look good, and that suits your schedule for the day.

Who are your favourite designers?

I firmly believe that it’s better to invest in something classic than to buy into a fast-fashion trend. There are certain designers I’m loyal to because of their aesthetic and commitment to producing high-quality classic collections. I tend to lean towards fashion houses like Chanel, Hermès and Christian Dior. However, I’m starting to experiment and wear different designers from time to time. I love some of the colourful prints that Gucci and Moschino have produced recently.

In 2012, Chanel invited us on a private tour of the Palace of Versailles. We were given an exclusive tour of areas that weren’t open to the public

- Lianne Lam -

What is your most unforgettable fashion experience?

The most memorable was being invited by Chanel to view their runway show in Paris for autumn/winter 2017, being flown first class from Hong Kong, put up in a spacious suite at Hôtel Le Bristol and welcomed with a tailor made itinerary that included meals at Michelin-starred restaurants and relaxing spa treatments. The highlight, however, was the marvelous runway show, where I was among the first to view the new collection of the season. Seeing the late Karl Lagerfeld in action is something I’ll never forget.

I also enjoyed visiting the Lesage workshop in Paris, where I had the opportunity to learn about the brand’s production and experimenting with the art of embroidery and techniques. We ended the trip with a visit to Coco Chanel’s opulent apartment at 31 Rue Cambon, where she used different floors as her shop, studio and private residence. It was truly a magical experience.

See also: 8 Women's And Men's Fashion Trends To Try This Fall

Tatler Asia
Above Lianne Lam at Royal Ascot 2019

What are some perks offered to loyal clients?

It had to be in 2012 when Chanel invited us on a private tour of the Palace of Versailles. It was a public holiday and it was a very unique experience, as we were given access and an exclusive tour of areas of the palace that weren’t open to the public. I’m used to seeing Versailles when it’s packed with crowds of tourists, so seeing it in a state of tranquillity was quite refreshing. Another perk is private invitations for customers in Hong Kong for Chanel’s seasonal local fashion shows.

These events feature the newest collections for VVIPs to have the first view of the brand’s additions and exclusive offers. Recently I was invited to a private viewing of Chanel’s Métiers d’Art 2018-19 Paris-New York Collection, where we saw the most recent designs and learned about the inspiration behind the collection. Afterwards we were served contemporary French cuisine prepared by chef Olivier Elzer. Truly a night to remember.

Tatler Asia
Above Lianne Lam at the Chanel A/W17 fashion show

What are some surprising gifts you’ve received from designers?

It is very adorable of the Chanel team to spoil me with surprise gifts on my birthdays and also on most festive occasions, such as Mother’s Day, Christmas and New Year’s. Their gifts are always accompanied by a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

My recent birthday gift from Chanel was two sofa cushions, chocolates and a nice bouquet of flowers. Even though Chanel has been sending me gifts paired with exclusive not-for-sale fashion items and accessories for many years, the gifts are never repetitive and always show genuine love for their loyal customers.

Do you have any shopping advice for fellow fashionistas?

As a frequent traveller to Europe, it’s fantastic that I can shop the ready-to-wear collections in London and Paris and have them express-delivered to Hong Kong. The whole process is tax free and hassle free too. For those who travel frequently, it also doesn’t hurt to browse your favourite boutiques, as sometimes you may stumble across something you love that isn’t available back home.

See also: Hey, Big Spender: The Exclusive Perks Of Luxury Fashion Brands' Top Clients

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