Top Fashion Finds: Silk Market

Shopping is no easy feat in Beijing, whether it's a matter of size or style. But from now on, we'll scour all the latest markets, boutiques and streets to bring you the top fashion finds on a monthly basis. We'll start with the one this expat community is probably best acquainted with: Silk Market.

1. The rays this past weekend were a welcome change, though some of us were left squinty-eyed and badly sunburnt. Make sure you're better equipped for the upcoming sunny months by picking up a snazzy pair of sunglasses now. These days, frames don't come cheap -- especially not the ones donned by the stars, which typically range from RMB 1,025 to RMB 2,700 -- but Silk Market offers plenty of designer knock-offs at far more affordable prices.

Source: Men's Vogue. Fakes for RMB 35-50 (also available in white, red and brown). 4/F, Stalls D1-019-D1-0047

Ray-ban sunglasses have proven to be enduring in the fashion world. The classic Wayfarers first emerged in the 1950's, but have made many comebacks -- first in the '80's (most memorably on Tom Cruise in Risky Business) and again in the last few years on musicians, heartthrobs and fashionistas alike (see Mary-Kate Olsen and Orlando Bloom below). The real ones sell for RMB 1,250, but the Silk Market version looks and feels very much like the real thing -- and can be bargained down to as low as RMB 35.

Source: Olsen-files.com

2. Some scoff at the idea of plaid shirts being fashionable, but in fact, they can look fresh when worn in innovative ways. Fashionistas like Kate Moss and Nicole Richie have sported them for years, usually tucked halfway into skinny jeans or denim shorts. Stores like Zara and H&M sell them for RMB 250 minimum, but the quality and selection of colors and fabrics at Silk Market is comparable, if not superior.

RMB 60-90. Stalls all over 1/F

Take cues from fashion blogger and model Jessica Hart, who adds a touch of androgyny to her outfits with this trend. Like her, you can knot your shirt at the waist or leave it untucked under a leather jacket. Visit her style blog for more ideas.

But perhaps the best part about plaid shirts is that they're entirely unisex. Guys, too, can wear them in an original way -- the key is to aim more for grunge, and less for lumberjack. David Beckham rolls up the sleeves for a more laidback Cali look, while Pattinson goes more grunge by layering on a leather jacket and baggy beanie.

Source: designer-glasses.co.uk; robertpattinsononline.com

3. Baggy sweaters are yet another wardrobe staple on hand at Silk Market. They serve as the perfect substitute for winter coats as the weather gets warmer, helping you stylishly transition into spring. Best of all, they'll match with just about anything -- just make sure to keep your bottoms tight (with skinny jeans and leggings) or your legs bare (with denim shorts and miniskirts) to achieve the right proportions.

RMB 450 (starting price; also available in red, black and blue). Cashmere Shop. 1/F, Stall A3-0018-0020. NOTE: This stall specializes in cashmere, which seems to indicate that their materials are authentic.

RMB 50-75. 1/F, Stall A4-0037.

4. Still, a carefully coordinated outfit can go to ruins without the proper pair of shoes. Ankle boots -- flat or heeled, pointy- or round-toed, laced or unlaced -- have survived the long dreary winter and can still be relevant for spring. If you've tired of your generic sandals and sneakers before the warm season has even begun, check out the booties below.

RMB 500-700. Beijing 27Hang Handicraft Shoe Studio. Stall F1-0053-0055.

RMB 1900 (starting price). Beijing 27Hang Handicraft Shoe Studio. Stall F1-0053-0055.

Victoria's Secret model (and girlfriend of Orlando Bloom) Miranda Kerr struts the streets in a pair very much like the first pair above. She plays with the combination of pairing masculine shoes with a cheetah-print skirt and tight leggings. Swedish fashion darling Elin Kling, too, mixes up otherwise simple outfits with her cowboy ankle boots, which throw in some Western vintage flair.

Source: whowhatwear.com, http://stylebykling.tv4.se/

And there you have it. Just make sure to avoid the flashy fake name-brand clothes and purses -- they'll only distract you from the quality items that await inside.

Silk Market. Daily 9am-9pm. 8 Xiushui Dongjie, Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5169 8800) 秀水市场, 朝阳区建国门外大街秀水东街8号