Here's my overview of Paris from two trips, June and August 2008.

I've already done all the touristy stuff on past visits to Beijing, so this time I concentrated on arts and food. My last day at Hugo Boss was day after opening night of our collection exhibit in Metzingen, Germany. After last-minute shopping at their VIP/employee shop, I took the taxi to Stuttgart train station, boarded the ICE train (very nice!) to Frankfurt airport, and flew to Beijing to check out the Olympic grounds.

I came across Cath Kidston about 3 years ago on a business trip in Tokyo. They had a store in the Daikanyama neighborhood. My first reaction was, "Oh my goodness. This is way too cutesy and floral!" And what do you know? Now I am so into all the rose patterns and polka dots. I think it has to do with the Japanese masking tapes I've been selling on my Tinted Mint store.

All this cuteness inspired me to do a concept collection between Nike and Cath Kidston. With many people buying the brand's printed fabrics to make their own things, towels and pillow cases, I think it is only fitting to incorporate some DIY in the collection. Hence a focus on using individual accessory components to make other accessories or to personalize clothing.

There are some really great finds at the show, although much of it is quite pricey. Jewelry artists may find some nice antique watch parts and you can get hands on metal tiles, salvaged from ceilings of old buildings, to make a custom door or wall paneling. If you are serious about buying, go in the morning for the best selection.