You might have noticed that a few previous Street Chics have been fashion and styling focused. But are you, perhaps, a straight man who doesn't want to read too much about the stylings and fashions of Shanghai dwellers? Do you just want to read interesting stories and perspectives of the locals and visitors without feeling bad about not understanding why skinny jeans should not be worn with sneakers? Well, you're in luck! We're going back to our roots by highlighting personal stories and anecdotes of the nicely dressed people we, as an introverted interviewer and his photographer, manage to catch on the streets.

In this April-May edition of Street Chic, we have seven city-walkers – a nice mix of locals and newcomers – share their experiences of living (or surviving) in Shanghai. And as a bonus, we have a few mystery men and women as fashion highlights.

A dazzling Shanghai veteran, Kay Akos (Caroliane), mid 30s

Caroline originally hails from Tema, Ghana. She mentions New York City as her second home, but now, so is Shanghai.

"I've been here for 10 years, going strong for the 11th year. What do I do for a living? Well, my best, haha. My current profession is teaching; I'm a business and economics educator in an international school. Besides that, I run a fashion brand called AKAATA (@akaatastyles on IG)."

Well, I could tell. There's a certain way that people who work in fashion carry themselves – I can honestly smell that from a mile away (evidently later in this article).

CNS: After more than 10 years in Shanghai, what keeps surprising you about this city? Or what is your absolute favorite thing about Shanghai?

"Surprisingly, it is the diversity! It's like New York City, only 100 times more. I have met people from places I've never even heard of – I had to check the map a couple of times, haha. There is so much to do, even after all this time. Besides the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, or other tourist spots, there are endless possibilities for adventure. Shanghai is the most international place I've lived in. Constantly learning new cultures and traditions – it is thrilling and truly inspiring."

A cutie from Xinjiang, Xie Yidai (谢伊代), 21

While looking for the friendliest faces – people I wouldn't be terrified to approach – Xie Yidai caught my attention while trying to take an OOTD selfie herself.

An interesting fact, which Chinese people acknowledge, is that folks from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region are often mistaken for foreigners. Coincidentally, in my own experience, they also tend to be more confident speaking English.

"It's been almost two years since I've been in Shanghai. I'm a computer major student here – it's been quite a journey. I love the atmosphere of Shanghai; there are so many places to go, so many things to try. Also, Shanghai is the technological haven in China, and that plays out very well for me."

An Indian designer searching for inspiration, Kiran, 52

A common thing I've noticed is that a lot of creatives come to Shanghai for inspiration. Honestly, you might not expect that to be the case – people rarely choose a metropolis to look for creative and historical references. However, Shanghai is truly an exception.

"I am a designer from Bombay, India, and I originally came here to see what fashion is like in China. To be inspired, understand the culture, and experience something new. I was originally working as a lawyer, but I realized that my passion is in making fun clothes, working with local Indian artisans – I enjoy it so very much."

CNS: Since it's your first time here, what do you think of the city?

"Oh, it's been absolutely fantastic. I really think it is the future. There is a beautiful balance between culture, tech, tradition, and modernity – an embodiment of what cities of the future should be like. It's beautiful."

A visitor from Hong Kong, now a local, Simpson, 41

If I see someone rocking a babushka scarf on their head, I just know that they are having a good time. Yanqing Road is a favorite among fashion people; there are a bunch of stores, vintage shops, and pretentious espresso bars – what's not to love?

"I first came to Shanghai back in 2018, originally from Hong Kong. I worked in the luxury retail industry, selling things here and there. But now, I do my own business, mainly operating through Xiaohongshu (Rednote). After being here for 5 years – even though my company was the reason they sent me here – I realized that there are so many opportunities in doing something by myself. So, I quit, took a risk, and started my own business. If you want to do anything related to fashion, Shanghai is the place to go."

Two Brazilian girls are better than one, Tamara and Adriana

I know a pair of fresh-out-of-the-boat in Shanghai when I see one. Perhaps it's the slightly disoriented, overstimulated gaze – full of confusion, but also a child-like wonder. We all had that, some time, long ago…

"Today is actually our second day on Shanghai soil. Before that, we were in Beijing. It's all still a bit confusing and new – so much information and people all around. One minute we're walking in a lovely park with no people, the next we're on this street full of people, dogs and stores."

Well, just as I thought. A lot of us arrived in Shanghai for the first time either before 2020 or right around 2023, so it's always interesting to see what kind of impression people have of this city in 2025.

"This city is full of contrasts, you know. One street is fully antique and historical, while the other is a full-on megapolis–60-floor skyscrapers. It's really interesting. We haven't found our favorite place yet, but we're looking forward to trying new food and taking too many photos."

Students catching a break, Zhang Kaikai (张开开), 19

As I've just mentioned, the Yanqing area is loved by many, not only seasoned professionals in the fashion industry, but also young, stylish students. Coffee shops, little stores, and a bunch of picturesque spots – ideal for a quick social media post. And even though I wasn't sure who was more anxious – me approaching them for an interview, or them being approached – we still worked it out.

"My name is Zhang Kaikai (cute name). I'm a student here in Shanghai, and I've been living here for some time. I originally came from Jiangxi, an eastern province in China. I really enjoy Shanghai – not only for studying, but I also think it's the most diverse place I've ever visited. It's super vibrant, and there are always things to do. My absolute favorite place to visit would be Xintiandi."

A few incognito fashionista's and their wear...