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Shanghai
has more commercial goods available than any other place in China
except Hong Kong. Shopping is an important part of the city's lifestyle,
so most shops and department stores on the main shopping streets
of Nanjing Lu and Huaihai Lu and in the Xujiahui area stay open
from 10 until 10.
Antiques markets, shops, and furniture warehouses
abound in Shanghai, as increasing numbers of foreigners, lured by
news of great deals, flock to the city. Great deals, however, are
gradually becoming only good deals. No matter what or where you
buy, bargaining is an inescapable part of the sales ritual. Note
that fake antiques are often hidden among real treasures. Also be
aware of age: The majority of pieces date from the late Qing (1644-1911)
dynasty; technically, only items dated after 1797 can be legally
exported. When buying antique furniture, it helps to know age, of
course, and also what kind of wood was used. Although the most commonly
used was elm, a variety of wood can be found in Chinese antiques.
All shops will renovate any pieces you buy.
Shanghai contains few Western-style malls. At Isetan
and the Orient, which are in large, department-store-like buildings,
different brands are featured in different spaces. These places
are organized like department stores, but the occupants are not
all employed by one company.
Shanghai is home to many tailors who make clothing
at reasonable prices. The most inexpensive are to be found at Tailor
Lane, a small alley leading to Hunan Lodge on Wuyuan Lu (Nos. 52
and 72) near Maison Mode; bring in a garment to copy.
A few tailors specialize in making Chinese qipaos
(cheongsams). The one at No. 258 Shimen Yi Lu does good work, as
does the cute Shanghai Tang-like store on the west side of Maoming
Lu south of Nanchang Lu. There are more cheongsam stores in a row
on the south side of Changle Lu between Shaanxi Lu and Maoming Lu.
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