Previously a Lane Crawford visual merchandiser, Paul Cheng found it difficult to find adequately stylish clothes when he moved Beijing. So he opened a menswear boutique, Aura. The shop has a minimalist factory look, with custom-made black and white shelves arranged in irregular patterns. The newly-opened shop doesn’t have many brands, but each is exclusive. The shop’s most popular brand is Sweden’s Obscur, whose founder-designer Richard Soderberg blends Gothic elements into his leather collections (about ¥20,000). Cheng’s preferred brand is Mountain Research, which follows Japan’s exquisite tailoring tradition perfectly combining simple vintage styles and functional design. Women can also find something nice with Paul’s partner/fashion designer Kelly Li’s cashmere collection (¥1,000-2,000), which uses superior cashmere to create clear and simple designs to match any style.

Find it: 12 Workers Stadium, 工人体育场12号