With the Bookworm's Literary Festival in full swing, we give the the lowdown on geek chic.

Thanks to the fashion bible that is the Calgary Sun, we found out that animal prints are “in” this season. Not just in the greater Alberta area, or even Canada at large (although both are fashion hothouses, that’s for sure). Beijing, too, is in on the craze with prints that are wilder than a box set of Animals Say The Funniest Things (which is also popular in Canada).

Hair. It’s more than a controversial musical. It’s a way of life. How else do you explain the plethora of hairdressers in Beijing? If they aren’t cutting hair, then what could they possibly be doing? No matter. What’s clear is that a bit of mousse and expert tousling can swing you over the fine line between fool and cool.

Beijing isn't all "blue sky days." Sometimes it's pretty, erm, foggy here. That's when you need to cold rock a mask. Just don't mention swine flu.

Korean-Canadian Currie Lee’s bags and jewelry are each individually handcrafted with recycled materials she’s collected in her travels throughout Asia – she retransforms everything from faded textiles to coconut shells into the next box clutch or bejeweled necklace. We spoke with her about her designs and socially-conscious business approach.

What time is it? It’s technology time. That polyester suit you’re wearing wasn’t fashioned from the hide of an animal. Nor those brightly colored Crocs on your feet. If you really want to get the tech look down pat, though, you need to accessorize. Check your Casio calculator-watch. Yeah, that’s what time it is.

The truth had to come out some time. And now someone has finally come out and said it. Sorry girls, but Australians all over the city are quietly sniggering at your ugg boots.

Remember when you went to school? Your sneakers could be the cause of much upset if you didn’t have the “right” pair. Thing is, things don’t really change. People are still going to notice and comment on your choice of footwear. On the upside, Beijing is not gangland, so there’s no risk that those shoes your mum picked out could get you shot.

Out for a spot of shopping this weekend? Beijing isn’t a global fashion capital just yet. But if you can get beyond all the diamante-encrusted tops, bow-laden dresses and the dreaded, all-conquering man purse, you’ll notice a vibrancy of style that impresses and shocks in equal measure. Add a dash of local flavor to your wardrobe or home with these boutiques, vintage knick-knack stores and shops selling elegant home wares.

Nali Patio has been a lively old place of late, its main square having been taken over in recent weeks by alfresco diners enjoying the clement temperatures. Yin Yaping has witnessed this from her store, Loop, one of the many little boutiques that occupy the Patio’s retail space. We spoke to Yaping about the store and her own shopping habits.