Wudai-Shiguo: Hong Kong's most talked-about retro store

Wudai-Shiguo, better known as WDSG, is one of the most talked-about shops in Hong Kong's hottest indie shopping area, the Star Street neighborhood.

It's the passion project of six local designers who dismiss all the icons of Hong Kong as "clichés."

"People think that Hong Kong means egg tarts, or when it comes to design it means the red, white and blue bags," says Kenji Wong, creative director of WDSG. "I don't think so."

Instead, Wong and the WDSG team are into stuff that is as far away from "Hong Kong" as it gets: 1930s Americana.

WDSG sells near-historically accurate reproductions of furniture from the United States and clothing by Mister Freedom and Ralph Lauren Leather.

"During the 1920s to 1930s, skilled workers were respected and things were built to last," says Wong. "Today in Hong Kong, most people are just smart alecks who want to earn a lot of money with little effort."

Wong hopes that the furniture he sells will be long-lasting and of good craftsmanship. Most of it is produced in India from reclaimed materials.

They are also planning to introduce a trade-in system, so customers can return aged furniture that was purchased at WDSG and get a new piece for a discounted price.

"We do not encourage simple consumerism. You are welcome to sit down and have a chat here," says Wong. "We want you to buy the lifestyle and be part of it."

WDSG is best known in Hong Kong as a design company for stage productions and music companies. Their recent projects includes pop star Khalil Fong's album cover.

Wudai-Shiguo, 9B, St. Francis St., Wanchai, opens daily 9 a.m.-8 p.m., +852 2528 3800, www.wudai-shiguo.com