Top Fashion Finds: Lara

Too many of us write off local boutiques before giving them a fair chance, and we don't blame you -- the cheap, glittery pieces that seem to dominate the racks turn us off too. But with that narrow-minded attitude, how do you expect to whip your wardrobe into shape whilst in Beijing?

Lara, a brightly lit shop nestled under the popular student cafe Bridge, can assist in drawing you away from the ease of chain stores and towards the more interesting selection offered by Mom and Pop stores. After rummaging through the trendy, more often elegant than tacky clothes and accessories imported from all over Asia, we've settled on the following as our top fashion finds of the week.

1. Sleek blue tie-dye tank dress (RMB 298)

Some may be appalled to learn that tie-dye is back "in" -- the trend was spotted all over the runways, from shows at Proenza Schouler to Calvin Klein and even Herve Leger. We, on the other hand, enthusiastically hail the revival of '60s and '70s fashion, which we think bring in refreshing blends of colors and cuts that feel free-spirited, young and playful. To keep from looking too hippie in your own interpretation, pair your tie-dye -- whether in dress, shirt or scarf form -- with gladiator heels, combat boots or Converse sneakers.

(1. Proenza Schouler, 2. Calvin Klein, 3. Herve Leger. Sources: Style.com)

(Sources: jessicahart.net/blog, columbine.freshnet.se)

2. Faux suede blazer with sheer underlay and pocket (RMB 798)

Ever the staple, blazers can carry you through all four seasons. The blazing heat right now may make this seem like an extravagant purchase, but you'll find out soon enough that a blazer can serve as the perfect layering piece under a coat in the winter and over a tank in the spring -- plus we guarantee it'll stay relevant long after the summer months are over. We're especially impressed by the sheer underlay and pocket detailing on the blazer above, which reflect the store's awareness of new trends and make it worth buying now and hanging onto for later.

(Sources: Elle China, stylebykling.tv4.se)

3. Floral tank dress (RMB 198)

A crucial addition to any wardrobe, floral prints feel more appropriate than ever now that spring is here. As shown below, they can either help you achieve a romantic, girly look -- with a braid tied in your hair for greater effect -- or an ironically androgynous one when matched with tough ankle boots, distressed cut-off shorts and/or leather.

(Sources: unknown, thecobrasnake.com)

Have we got you convinced yet? If not, stay tuned -- we'll be introducing you to far more neighborhood boutiques in the future.

Lara. 1) 1/F, 1208 Huaqingjiayuan, Haidian District. (8286 7760); 2) 2 Dongzhongjie, Dongcheng District. (6417 2824)