Internationally known Blanc de Chine is a much more subtle and subdued take on high-end Chinese fashion than the colorful and glamorous Shanghai Tang. Blanc de Chine’s design philosophy is based on creating beautiful silk clothes that are timeless, “so ancient yet so modern.” Founded in 1986, the company was the first in Asia to draw on traditional Chinese styles like the Qi Pao and Mien O for a contemporary look. There are men’s and women’s collections as well as home products and accessories, all of which use wonderful quality silks and cottons in mainly neutral colors. Think Chinese Armani and you get the idea.

Lu Lu Cheung opened her first boutique in Hong Kong in 1992 and has since emerged as one of Asia’s most respected women’s clothing designers. Her designs are sexy and trendy; some consider her a Chinese version of Theory. This is the branch at Sanlitun Village North.

Drawing on the Chinese tradition of tailoring, Pye has created a temple to the well-fitted shirt. You will find beautiful feminine renditions on the button down but also draped cotton tees in dozens of luscious colors.

This art gallery-like boutique sells some of the most stylish fashion in Beijing. The label’s found Kathrin von Rechenberg studied and worked in Paris with such haute couture ateliers as Jacques Fath, Louis Scherrere, Christian Dior and Chanel before coming to Beijing. She was originally lured to the Chinese capital by its rare tea silk, or “black laquered gauze” fabric in 2000 and has since established herself as one of the country’s most elegant designers. Her designs, which also come in velvet silk and wool, are notable for their graphic lines, subtle draping and layering and simplicity.

This shopping complex is an expansion of the first open-air mall in Beijing. Many international architects have been involved in creating spaces here, including Kengo Kuma and Frank Gehry. Among the international luxury labels that have opened here are Balenciaga, Lanvin and Alexander Wang. The lower levels are devoted to up-and-coming Chinese designers.

The team behind Shanghai Trio, which opened more than a decade ago in Shanghai, prides itself on merging global know-how (members come from Paris, Shanghai, Beijing and Tokyo) with Chinese traditions and a commitment to social responsibility. Their beautiful products include silk pillows and bags, delicate cotton linens and stylish fashions. This Beijing outpost opened in May 2010.

This minimalist boutique may be hard to find, but it’s worth the effort. Owned by a young couple, the collection features modern takes on traditional Chinese tea equipment and clothing. There is also a store in Shanghai.