2010 Nov 23 Jewelry Lovers' Abode: Approx
I’m not talking about diamonds here. I’m talking about everyday pieces with character, that rest on your lobes, fingers or wrists to show off your sense of style rather than your bank account.
That kind of jewelry can be hard to come by in Beijing. That’s where gems of stores like Approx come in.
We don’t blame you if you haven’t been before. Nali Patio is fairly hard to navigate, and this independent designer boutique is located all the way on the third floor.
It’s not large, but there is an impressive collection. Owner PJ – a stylish young Chinese woman with excellent English – also contributes her own designs, which we’d describe as unique and masculine, yet elegant. The rest is plucked from the work of other local designers and friends.
You’ll have to go in to see for yourself. Here are some of the latest pieces to come in:
Necklace by 0322, made from sandalwood and spare mechanical parts (RMB 980)
Earrings by wala (RMB 323)
Silver punk ring by Yangzi 扬子 (RMB 680)
Necklace by meaning&meaningless, made from natural cloth (RMB 1150)
And our favorite: A silver ring by everard + wang (RMB 1050)
In light of the holiday season, all customers – old and new – will be treated to 12% discounts off their final purchases, while select products are 20% off starting December.
Approx. A301, 3/F, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (139 1170 6284) 朝阳区三里屯路81号那里花园3层A301
You might also be interested in :
Becoming a Better Shopper: Nali Patio Stores
People underestimate the shopping scene in Beijing. They peer into a few stores, get distracted by the cheap cloth and glittery diamantes, and write off the city’s retail potential completely.
The truth is, you just need to become a more adept shopper. Adapt to your surroundings. You’re not in America or Europe anymore, though you can still rely on some of the same fast-fashion chain stores (i.e. H&M and Zara). But if you truly want to flourish, give some of the local places a chance as well.
Bling in the Jing: Romantic Diamond
Diamonds serve as the most romantic of gifts, whether they’re in the form of earrings, pendants or, of course, engagement rings. But if you’re unlearned in the intricacies of diamond selection, they can be a challenging investment here in Beijing.
China Fashion Week: Pretty Cars, Clothes and People
Whew. Beijing has seen a flurry of store openings, fashion shows and big-name visitors in these last couple weeks – and the Beijinger has the inside scoop and photos right here.
This California Girl Is Unforgettable: Belita Jewelry Opens in Sanlitun
Belita Jewelry opened late last year, only to close for renovations and unveil a newer and brighter self at its grand opening party this past month.
Pursuit of Aesthetics: Virginie Fournier of Shanghai Trio
Virginie Fournier, one of the three original founders of Shanghai Trio, first launched her brand in the name of beauty. Now heading into its 12th year of business, this home accessories store – with branches in Paris, Shanghai and Beijing’s Sanlitun Village North – tweaks the colors and textures of old Chinese items and makes them current again. The latest collection just hit stores last week. We spoke with her about her pursuit of aesthetics and how she keeps traditional items looking so fresh.
