Nine Way: Cheap Menswear in Gulou

Very rarely do I stumble upon good Chinese brands with so little public recognition – and no obvious desire to promote themselves, either. But Nine Way, a menswear label designed and manufactured in Guangzhou, seems intent on creating a quiet presence in Beijing.

I was drawn inside based on the appearance of its sign alone: subtle, stark and clean. Inside, webbed light fixtures hanging from the ceiling adds the only touch of decorative flair. The gray floor and walls keep the focus where it belongs: on the clothes. Button-downs and jeans are available in bulk, but only in muted tones and natural fabrics. Girls, feel free to borrow from the boys here – the sizes run small. With linen shirts starting from just RMB 150, Nine Way will pave the way to a more sartorially inclined summer for all.

Must buy: Denim shirt (RMB 230)
Also try: Exception de Mixmind, Croquis

Nine Way
Daily 11.30am-9.30pm. 89-4 Gulou Dongdajie, Dongcheng District (186 1139 4458)
东城区鼓楼东大街89-4

Photo: Sui