Beijing is a metropolis that lures every type of person. Want to find an ethnically Chinese, Vietnamese, Laotian chef with a Canadian passport, who dances capoeira and sports waist-length dreads? Meet Jun Trinh, a Beijing transplant who ticks all those categories and then some. The thing that makes Jun so fashionable is how he puts outfits together from local markets, like these red gongfu shoes from the Dongjiao Market, and this ¥10 tank from the Zoo Market. Not only does this outfit show off his capoeira-made hard body, it also functions as the perfect get-up to practice this strenuous Brazilian dance form. Jun likes the freedom that China lends fellow fashionistas, both male and female. “One thing that I’ve noticed and love about China is that styles meant for one sex are being constantly worn by the opposite,” says Jun. “Only here do you see the balance of the sexes equal as they should be.” He recommends the Xinyuanli Market as another destination for male and female duds. Another aspect of Jun’s style that cannot be overlooked is his impressive mass of dreaded locks that he has been growing for over six years. “I like to dress preppy because it offsets my dreads. Sometimes Chinese people stare and even handle them. I like to think this makes me some sort of demi-god.” Whether Jun Trinh has reached the status of deity is up for debate, but what is not debatable is his inspiring sense of style, dynamic lifestyle and rogue approach to fashion. “For me fashion fits with function,” he concludes. “What good is it if you can’t run from the cops?”

Name: Jun Trinh
Occupation: Chef
Nationality: Canadian/Vietnamese

Fashionista: MeiLi Autumn
For more style analysis or fashion insight, visit MeiLi's website, www.MeiLiAutumn.com
Photographer: Tao Zi
Hair and Makeup: MeiLi Autumn