Shanghai Tang (Hong Kong)

With Chinese New Year coming up, I thought it would be suitable to feature another Hong Kong store and when it comes to shopping in this city, there's one local brand that's hard to ignore and might even be familiar to those visiting from abroad. Shanghai Tang has been something of an institution in the city since its launch in 1994 and I remember the hype surrounding the flagship when it first opened in the Central district. Back then, I always associated the label and its store as being somewhat pretentious... a place where 'ladies who lunch' hang out and buy presents for their equally wealthy friends. Even now, I'm not entirely sure who the intended target group is and how wearable some of the pieces are, but it's definitely the best place to go if you're looking for a unique outfit or gift and want to have a fun time browsing items you won't find elsewhere.

A few campaign and catalog looks from the FW09 'Kaleidoscope' range (images: Shanghai Tang).

The name 'Shanghai Tang' stems from its founder, David Tang who in 1998 sold his controlling stake of the company to Richemont (the same business that controls luxury labels like Cartier or Chloe). The 'Shanghai' part of the name is a reference to Shanghainese tailoring and the city's slightly decadent old-imperialist vibe of the 20s and 30s. The brand's concept is 'modern Chinese chic' - one that, according to Tang, aims to "create the first global Chinese lifestyle brand by revitalizing Chinese designs – interweaving traditional Chinese culture with the dynamism of the 21st century". Pieces, such as the classic qi pao (silk dresses) or satin jackets have been revamped by injecting a little neon pink or lime green into them. In some cases bold prints, featuring Chinese symbols of luck, prosperity and health, such as goldfish, dragons, lotus flowers or the double happiness sign are proudly emblazoned on scarves, bags and homeware items. It's like a Warhol version of traditional Chinese art - very colorful and a little tongue-in-cheek, such as the bright Mao or Empress prints that can be found on various plates or pillow cases.

The 'Imperial Tailoring' area at the back entrance.

Dinner suits for the gents (left) and a few interesting decor items - not for sale unfortunately (right).

Like most labels out there, Shanghai Tang releases two RTW collections a year, most of which are more subtle than the signature neon designs you first see in-store - although the seasonal range is still definitely more suitable for those who love colors and prints. In addition to that, the 'Imperalist Tailoring' service offers bespoke or made-to-measure garments, most of which are usually evening dresses based on the qi pao design. These tend to be intricately embroidered and embellished, although you can also select a simple pattern. If you choose to enter the main flagship in Central via the back entrance (the one pictured above), this corner will be the first you see - filled with rolls of Chinese silk in the most glorious colors and prints. Ready-made jackets, gowns and coats hang from antique carved racks, while additional elements, such as the vintage sewing machine or small statues add a charming touch.

Overview of the ground floor (top), along with a selection of seasonal and classic Shanghai Tang pieces (bottom).

Mannequins wearing modern versions of the qi pao (left) and coats lined along a rack (right).

The very grand cash desk towards the front entrance (left). Leather bags and clutches on display (right).

The interior of Shanghai Tang alone is worth visiting the store. It's like stepping back in time, although I'm quite sure shopping in ancient China was a lot less luxurious. Antique furniture can be found throughout the store, while wooden floors alternate with mosaic tiles. What I love most is that the minute you step into the flagship, a wonderful scent of jasmine envelopes you. This home fragrance can of course be purchased as well. The ground level is where you'll find most of the garments, bags and other accessories such as scarves. Heading out of the bespoke area, I was greeted by a few of the FW09 'Kaleidoscope' looks, along with the classics such as velvet Chinese jackets with a neon-colored lining (the same of course available in silk). More contemporary qi paos in bright hues could be found here as well and a large selection of scarves made of silk and Mongolian cashmere (they were double-lined and reversible) captured my attention for a while. Towards the front entrance, large shelves displayed leather bags, many included Chinese elements, such as a jade clasp featuring a vintage coin design.

The very chic seating area in the middle of the store (top) with a view of the bespoke area (left) and a TV displaying the runway show (right).

A few of the more neutral pieces (left), but there are plenty of prints as well, such as the floral tees and patterned dresses (right).

More casual sportswear (left) and the very tempting scarf rack (right).

Most of the people I came across while shopping here seemed to be tourists, but a few locals could be found looking for last-minute Christmas gifts (I visited on Christmas Eve). In general, I'm not entirely sure if any of the hip cool locals would venture in here, as the pricing is as high as any other luxury brand and I'm guessing they'd prefer to spend their cash on Margiela or Rick Owens, rather than go for something that's even remotely traditional or non-Western. Of course plenty of the items were modern enough for everyday wear and the silk pieces were truly stunning. Others did seem a tad matronly (at least to me), especially the printed floral numbers. In some cases it really is impossible to modernize a design that's too traditional.

One floor down... menswear.

The main home decor and gifts area (left) which included a range of jewelry and other small accessories.

Shanghai Tang's most popular items however are probably in the basement. While wearing a classic Chinese garment (however neon colored it may be) might still seem too uncool for some, loading up on funky Chinese inspired trinkets on the other hand is always fun. This also happens to be my favorite area and if you thought home decor was boring, this place may change your mind. If you happen to be shopping with a guy, he may want to check out the menswear section first, which is slightly more low-key than the women's range. Polo and rugby shirts adorned with 'Hong Kong' or the Shanghai Tang logo make great souvenirs, while many of the jackets and shirts are fairly plain and less obviously branded.

An elaborate table setting and a few cute goldfish cups and teapots...

Fancy a colorful bathrobe? Or perhaps a green and pink quilt?

A basket full of Shanghai Tang pandas... I'm sure they're not just for kids (left) and the children's department (right).

The rest of the main area is dedicated entirely to homeware and gifts. Key pieces included enamel jewelry boxes, satin pouches, cutlery and chopstick sets, tableware, leather bookmarks, linen, quilts, suitcases and even laptop and iPod holders. Smaller counters along the center displayed wallets, jewelry and watches along with notebooks, photo frames and pens. A four-poster bed featured beautiful silk bedspreads, while the children's section towards the end contained clothing, toys and gifts for the little ones. I've found this floor to be the best place to get presents for friends and family living outside Hong Kong and thankfully the pricing of these items isn't as steep as some of the clothing can be.

A very impressive bed and a matching divan nearby.

Holdalls and carry cases (left), jewelry pouches (top right) and printed notebooks and trays (bottom right).

Shanghai Tang has expanded quite a bit since it's launch and flagships can be found in various European and American cities. It's definitely a fun place to browse and the general store aesthetic is visible in all outlets. Of course if you live far from any boutique, there's no need to worry: an extensive online store caters to those who can't just drop by a brick & mortar version, so check it out if you get the chance. But be warned... those bright-colored goodies can be quite addictive...

Two beautiful gowns from the 'Imperial Tailoring' range (images: Shanghai Tang).

A selection of items from the online store, including jewelry, bags and the signature reversible jacket on the lower right (images: Shanghai Tang).

Address: Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central, Hong Kong
Opening Hrs: Mon-Sat: 10:00-20:00, Sun: 10:00-19:00
Shanghai Tang Homepage & Online-Shop