Talking Threads: Custom iPhone Cases, Plus a Grandiose Kung Fu Fight

In the depths of Taikoo Li’s underground shopping area (perhaps for a reason) is a billboard boasting wise words for the fashionista:

 “How much FUN you can have from shopping? How FASHION you are? You just keep walking FORWARD and do the right choice

…Liberation.”

Although, it’s uncertain as to why such a developed area for expats and international visitors wouldn’t have a copy editor, Taikoo Li’s message is one that’s caught on like a virus throughout Sanlitun’s North and South Villages. Recent renovations saw a newly opened (but disappointingly cramped) Uniqlo, alongside Marimekko and the Moleskine Concept Store. Soon to come are Kate Spade and for the love of god, finally, H&M.

I’ve heard mixed feedback about H&M’s soon-to-be new location next to Adidas. Some say it will attract more foot traffic to Taikoo Li, making it as unbearably crowded as Wangfujing, but I, for one, am welcoming more affordable fast fashion to an area that now seems to have a little something for everyone.

You’ve probably heard about Beijing’s epic boxing tournament Brawl on the Wall that took place November 16, and coincidentally, NLGX Design Store is coming out with a t-shirt with an “Epic Fight” theme. The tee features a poster advertising a match-up between the world’s greatest kung fu legends ever: Bruce Lee and Shao Lin. Get yours for RMB 150 at either their Nanluogu Xiang or Beijing Airport locations.

Shuangjing folks have just gained easy access to another vintage haven called Q Apartment, which is run by Shao Qing out of her Pingod home. She’s been bringing back designer label vintage from Europe and the US for the last few years, and boy, does she have good taste.

Get your 1994 Versace denim skirts or hand-stitched sequined dresses from the US by following her on WeChat (shqaoing1234) and scheduling an appointment with her. She has big ambitions to open a concept shop yet to be heard of in Beijing, but I’ll give you more on that when plans are firmed up.

And while we’re talking about Shuangjing, I have to give a shout out to Trash ‘n’ Diamond again, this time, for these:

Bunny-shaped cases, out. Crazy designs by Wan Manjing, in. And you thought phone candy couldn’t get any more bizarre.

Stop at Trash ‘n’ Diamond to get yours custom-made or buy one of these for RMB 120-220.

Email: j.rapp@thebeijinger.com
Instagram: @jrapppp

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Photos: Jessica Rapp, NLGX