(hi.online.sh.cn)
Updated: 2007-11-21 10:13

Classic things never go out of style. Which is why it's no wonder that at events like the Oscars and Grammys, many Hollywood stars and famous artists are wearing designer gowns from the 1960s and 1970s. They mostly wore Valentino, Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent, styles then that are just as fashionable today.

But vintage clothes aren't just for the rich and famous. Ordinary people find a new appreciation in old things, be it clothes, bags, shoes or jewelry. They're drawn to these items for their relatively low price, genuine material and legendary past. While Chinese on the mainland may have lagged behind the world in terms of developing a second-hand market, it has recently started to catch on with quite a few cozy quality second-hand stores.

Beijing

*Neo Romanticism

Neo Romanticism is dedicated to imported Italian ready-to-wear. The store's decor matches its name with classic European furniture, blue walls and the romantic lighting.

Here clients can find quality Italian brands such as Celynb, Atos and Anna Ritan as well as some unique home decor pieces. Many clients claim that the ready-to-wear here feels like tailored clothes when they try them on. Many buy a dozen pieces at once, and according to some foreign clients, the same clothes are much more expensive in Italy. The most popular items are the New Man watch and some bracelets.

Location: Shop 113-114, Kerry Center Shopping Mall, No.1 Guanghualu, Chaoyang District
Tel: 010-85299465

*V2

People say V2 is a down-to-earth store for luxury items. Its specialty is in bags more than clothes. Various eye-catching designer bags, such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Christian Dior and Bally, fill V2's shelves. Also, clients can find some newly released bags that currently are not available in the Chinese market, some limited edition second-hand bags and some second-hand top brand bags exclusive to V2. Whatever the source of the bags, two things are for sure: top brands and the genuine article. V2 also carries out of stock Swarovski bracelets, men's Cartier watches, some lovely dolls and chic iPod accessories.

All items here are priced at 30 to 40 percent off the original price. And if luck is one your side, you may also be likely to come across some items priced at 80 percent off.

Location: 4302#, 3/F, Building No. 4, Jianwai Soho Community, Chaoyang District
Tel: 010-51660088

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