Va Va Villa

The Villa Shanghai

Yigal Azrouel, Altuzarra, Theyskens’ Theory. The list of designers that The Villa Shanghai carries reads like a roll call of the New York Fashion Week shows, but these names have only recently been gaining traction in China, thanks in large part to Sara Villarreal, founder and curator of the multi-international-label Shanghai concept store. And though The Villa opened over three years ago, it continues to be the first stop for Shanghai’s most fashion forward, in search of unique, high-quality goods a world apart from the high-street ubiquity of the world’s biggest luxury labels.

Inspired by the relaxed boutiques of Los Angeles, the beautifully appointed 315 sq m shop sports racks of colour-coordinated clothing set against the white walls and wood floors of this charming former French Concession villa. Although clothing is the focus, there’s a selection of accessories including roomy leather bags by Parisian designer Jerome Dreyfuss and red carpet favourite Kotur clutches, plus delicate gold pendants by Gorjana and bold costume baubles by Erickson Beamon. The ever savvy Villarreal has ensured there are no hovering velcro sales associates to distract or annoy, although if you do need a second eye, simply book an appointment with one of the on-site stylists. Chic!