Qiao Tao is the founder and designer of Da Yuan Jing (literally meaning "big round mirror"), a clothing line loved by Shanghai's sophisticated, no-nonsense working women. "Women's fashion should be of a more exquisite quality this year, but still comfortable and uninhibited," says Qiao. His own designs are vivid examples of that, creating a neutral, voluminous silhouette for his female customers.

Qiao's favorite shop is One By One, across the street from his own store and run by three local designers Qiu Hao, Chocho, and Liu Peixiong. "It's the first fashion store in the city with a more deconstructed style. Their design is very feminine,and they only use the best materials like silk and linen, which are both popular fabrics this summer." On our visit Qiao picks up a cropped floral print top by Qiu Hao. "Floral prints are hot – have a look at Kenzo and Chloe." He eyes a see-through top with polka dots designed by Chocho. "Polka dots have made a comeback this year."

He also namechecks two shops on Taikang Lu: insh and La Vie. While insh's women collection is eye-catching with its bold colors and tongue-incheek design, La Vie is more subtle and womanly. Fortunately neither of these two shops go with the "glittery" look that Qiao loathes. Of course there are always gals who want to be pampered, even when they are shopping. No worries, Qiao knows where they should go. The upscale private boutique Aiaia offers a five-star shopping service in atranquil old house, covering big name designers like Anne Valerie Hash and Matthew Williamson.

Da Yuan Jing
Location: 149-21 Changle Lu, near Chengdu Lu
Tel: 021-63851471
One By One
Location: 290 Changle Lu, near Chengdu Lu
Tel: 021-63858876
insh
Location: 200 Taikang Lu, near Ruijin Lu
Tel: 021-64665249
La Vie
Location: No.7, Lane 210, Taikang Lu
Tel: 021-64453585
Aiaia
Location: 165-1 Taiyuan Lu, near Jianguo Xi Lu
Tel: 021-64679102