Seven Days, XintiandiSee Address

Seven Days’s tagline, ‘China Now’, is apt for two reasons: the shop’s a sartorial cornucopia of up-andcoming Chinese designers (with a smattering of international ones); and with a slightly different intonation – something like: ‘China: Now!’ – it becomes an appropriate mantra for the brand’s sudden rapid expansion. Founded in 2007, Seven Days has opened three branches in the last three months (Xintiandi Style, SML Centre, Infiniti Plaza) and plan for another three by the end of the year, adding to their two initial branches. According to the company, it’s a mix of their ‘foundation’ being strong enough and the economy being ripe. Lucky us. 

All branches are decked out in an interpretation of hipster boutiquemeets- Ming Dynasty enclave. The ceiling is snaked with exposed pipes; fitting rooms look like seven-foot eggs; and futuristic silver spotlights illuminate the collections. But lining the walls are traditional Chinese-style antique wardrobes brimming with clothes. Crumbling stone wash basins prop up antique wooden doors, making display tables spread with gloves and necklaces. There are additional thoughtful touches, such as a seating area in the corner where shoppers can flick through arty books or magazine, and listen to CDs through the headphones that are provided. 

There are around ten different indie designer collections in store, with a heavy focus on Chinese talent – most of whom you haven’t heard of (but will be pleased to know). We like i…l, a crisp menswear label specialising in jackets, which subtly subverts casual staples; take their grey hoodie that buttons up like a shirt (610RMB) or a knee-length trench coat with a chic hood (880RMB).

We’re also fans of Cleen, a Japanese womenswear brand, whose chunky woollen jumpers are sumptuously cosy, especially the navy cable-knit with front pockets (980RMB). Vintage accessories are from Miss Deco – one-off pieces such as sparkly clutch bags (750RMB) and a gorgeous selection of oversize stud earrings (460RMB) – are beguiling. Seven Days’s website is also a mustsee, as it features brilliant designers such as He Yan, Chris Liu and bag designer Jessie Jiang, none of whom are featured in the shops.

Nicola Davison