HANNAH GRIFFITH’s typical day sees her balancing the demands of being a new mum with running her business, providing a range of wardrobe concierge services and personal shopping. She says that Mid-Levels in Hong Kong is an ideal place for embracing both of those worlds.
Where are you from originally? What brought you to Hong Kong and when?
I am from the UK and moved to Hong Kong in 2020. My ex-boyfriend (now husband!) had relocated here for work five years previously and we’d kept in touch. During COVID, I moved back in with my parents and the brand I was working for, Moda Operandi, shut down its operations in London; so I thought, what do I have to lose? I was fortunate that they then gave me a private client position in HK, which made the move a bit less scary!
When I arrived, I got a little studio in Sai Ying Pun, which I think was the perfect place to start my HK life. I love the neighbourhood vibe there; it’s a nice mix of feeling quite “Hong Kong” while still being familiar enough for a London girl.
What do you do in Hong Kong?
After having our baby in 2023, I launched my own style concierge service called CREME, which is what I do day to day. It involves managing clients’ wardrobes and personal shopping. I specialise in a more sustainable approach to building a wardrobe, as well as unique fashion finds – this often means shopping preloved, so I spend days finding the very best vintage or one-of-a-kind pieces for my clients.
Where have you lived in your years here, and where is your most recent Hong Kong home?
The ex quickly became the boyfriend, and we got married at Cotton Tree Drive and moved to Wyndham Street in an amazing place with a long terrace overlooking Tai Kwun. However, after moving in, we quickly realised why it was available and for such a good price – LKF being right outside our bedroom window meant many sleepless nights! So we moved back to Sai Ying Pun, to Island Crest. When the baby was on the way, we moved to Mid-Levels for a little more space.
What do you like about Mid-Levels?
Mid-Levels is the perfect place for young families; you get a little more space and you’re a bit further away from the hustle and bustle. But you’re still close enough to walk to Soho and Central. This was essential for us as many of our friends hadn’t had babies yet and we didn’t want to feel too cut off. Having said that, we have also fantasised about a move to Lantau or Lamma.
Tell us a bit about this home in Hong Kong. Does your interest in fashion carry over to interiors?
I approach designing my home in exactly the way I approach building a wardrobe. I strongly believe that a home and a wardrobe should feel “collected” and not “designed”. The best spaces and wardrobes tell a story of your life and who you are. It’s also about what feels good to you, rather than copying an aesthetic or feeling too contrived.
Could you describe a couple of your items that have an interesting background or story behind them?
I recently found a cowhide chair at The Gift Horse (below). I’m so happy with it – it brings an eclectic touch that I feel was missing. I also love my vase painting – it’s done by my sister, who is an artist.
What are a couple of your favourite fashion items in your wardrobe right now?
I’m extremely happy about a pair of tiger pony skin Saint Laurent booties I found recently. I think it’s a fun and subtle way of touching on the animal print trend. I was also gifted this amazing check coat by Frey – I’m really in love with what they do; I have a background on Savile Row and love tailoring; it plays a big part in my wardrobe.
Do you have a quick wardrobe tip for our readers?
Make sure the pieces you wear the most are visible! So, pull them out and have them on a separate standalone rail, if space allows. I also pull out my seasonal shoes, as it helps to visualise full looks. This is a great method for clients that have a lot of nice pieces that they struggle to find the time to wear – pull out the ones you want to wear and challenge yourself to style them.
Is there a spot in the home that you enjoy the most?
My favourite place is the bathtub! That is my happy place where I feel most relaxed and can switch off. I also really love sitting round the dining table with the view – and I love hosting.
What are a few things you like to do in Hong Kong when you’re not working?
Weekends are usually hikes and eating out, but to be honest, with a toddler and a new business, I feel like that takes up most of my time. There are so many great places to travel to from HK, so we often go away for long weekends too.
What are you excited about for 2025?
I’m most excited about my plans for CREME! I have a new model that I will be launching soon, something I really see revolutionising women’s wardrobes and that aspect of their lives.
Some of Hannah’s HK recommendations
For my home, I shop all preloved clothes, with some Zara Home thrown in – it’s so great for the price point; I also follow @thegoodstuffhk who curates and posts all the best preloved furniture. I’ve worked with Andreia Costa on some interior advice too (luso-studio.com).
My favourite restaurants include a few local dumpling places in Sai Ying Pun that I never know the name of! I also love Grand Majestic Sichuan, Brut and Myun Ga (Korean barbecue in TST – get the private room). The Fish Bar at the JW Marriott Hotel is great on a sunny day for a weekend lunch, as is Louise. And we go to Pici practically every week! I also love Cardinal Point or Popinjays for rooftop cocktails to start the night.
This article on an apartment in Mid-Levels Hong Kong first appeared in the March 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
