Questions we get asked most often, in the shop and by email. If yours is not here, message us on WhatsApp or email [email protected].
About our brands
What is the difference between GOC Studio and Incense Harbour?
Both are our own labels, designed and made in Hong Kong. GOC Studio is our pattern apparel label — original prints drawn from everyday Hong Kong life, on hand-printed T-shirts, pattern shirts, indigo-dyed pieces and kidswear. Incense Harbour is our Japanese-fabric label — denim workwear jackets, woven shirts, knitwear and trousers, cut plainer and built to age. Same studio, same production team, different intent.
Why is it called Incense Harbour?
Incense Harbour is the old meaning of the name Hong Kong — the fragrant, or incense, harbour. It is a clothing label, not an incense brand.
Are your clothes really made in Hong Kong?
Yes. Our garments are cut and sewn in Hong Kong in limited quantities, not mass-produced offshore. Production is run in-house by Karen, and the studio sits above the shops at PMQ.
Fabric and care
What fabrics do you use?
Mostly Japanese fabrics — cotton denim, herringbone denim, slub cotton, seersucker and textured weaves. GOC Studio also uses organic cotton and Tencel linen for pattern pieces. Our Incense Harbour bags use MACLOWLY® nylon from UNITIKA, which is lightweight, quick-dry and water-repellent.
What are corozo buttons?
Corozo is a natural material made from the seed of the tagua palm, sometimes called vegetable ivory. It is harder and warmer to the touch than plastic, and each button takes dye slightly differently, so no two are identical. We use it across our shirts and jackets instead of resin.
Will the indigo fade?
Yes, and that is intended. Indigo-dyed and indigo-discharged pieces will lighten and develop personal wear patterns over time. Wash cold, inside out, separately for the first few washes, and hang dry out of direct sun. Expect some transfer onto light fabrics early on.
How should I care for Japanese denim?
Wash cold and infrequently, inside out, and hang dry. Avoid tumble drying, which is what shortens the life of the fabric and the stitching. Denim is meant to soften and mark with use.
Sizing and fit
How does your sizing run?
Most of our pieces are unisex and cut relaxed or loose — boxy shirts, roomy jackets. Every product page has a measurement table in centimetres for shoulder, chest, sleeve and length. Compare those to a garment you already own and like, rather than relying on your usual S/M/L.
Is your clothing unisex?
Most of it, yes. Some pieces such as skirts and certain dresses are cut for a female fit, and these are described as such on the product page. We also make kidswear through GOC Studio.
Can I try things on before buying?
Yes, and we would prefer it. All three of our shops are at PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central. GOC Studio is at S402, Incense Harbour at S403 Block A, and NoRo is next door.
Orders and shipping
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship worldwide from Hong Kong and regularly send orders to the UK, United States, Japan, Singapore, Canada and Australia. Shipping cost and delivery time are calculated at checkout based on your destination.
Can I collect my order at the shop?
If you are in Hong Kong and would rather collect in person at PMQ, message us before ordering and we will arrange it.
What is your return and exchange policy?
We offer exchanges rather than refunds. Items can be exchanged within 30 days of receipt, in brand new and unworn condition, with tags intact, original packaging and your receipt or proof of purchase. Each item may be exchanged once, for anything available in the shop. Sale items, custom or personalised pieces and gift cards cannot be exchanged. If something arrives damaged, defective or incorrect, contact us straight away and we will put it right.
Do you restock sold-out pieces?
Sometimes, but not reliably. We produce in small runs and fabrics are often bought in limited lengths, so a sold-out colour or size may not return. If there is something you want, ask us and we will tell you honestly whether it is coming back.
Visiting
Where are you and when are you open?
PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong — GOC Studio at S402, Incense Harbour at S403 Block A, and NoRo alongside them. PMQ is a short walk uphill from Sheung Wan and Central MTR. For current opening hours, check our Instagram or message us on WhatsApp.
How can I contact you?
Email [email protected], message us on WhatsApp, or reach us on Instagram at @_goc_studio and @incense_harbour.