Estune: Feminine mystique

Founded by Wenzhou-born Alex Yin, Estune is a standout among Shanghai’s slew of local designer boutiques. While the creatives Yin and Chuck Cheung prefer to keep a low profile, their sexy, feminine designs speak volumes.

The line's edgy aesthetic designs combine structural influences from Japan with colorful prints and sartorial details of Western persuasions. The result is fashion-forward yet wearable women’s wear in slinky silks, satins and wool. A hard mix for designers to pull off well -- but this pair manages to.

The collection is spread out over an artsy, unfinished space with a large cluster of bare light bulbs overhanging the counter.

The bare layout at Estune puts the emphasis exactly where it should be -- on the clothes.