SH Fashion Files is a semi-regular column exploring the world of fashion, design, and beauty in Shanghai. As the city ascends to its rightful place among global fashion capitals, we're diving into the stories, styles, and people that set it apart. From designers and models to stylists and creatives, we're talking to the minds shaping Shanghai's look. Stick around for what's easy on the eyes – and undeniably Shanghai.

The city's glitz and glamor can be as intimidating as they are alluring. Will you thrive or get lost in its relentless energy? We are right in the middle of Shanghai's Fashion Week season, and we felt it was time to dive yet again into our Fashion Files series.

We have yet to do a direct interview with a fashion designer, so I'm excited to start with Liu Yung Ming, a gentleman from Taipei who has launched his fashion brand in Shanghai.

How would I describe his aesthetic? Well it is light, romantic and elegant. Easy to understand. Pretty clothes.

Meet Liu Yung Ming

Back in 2010, Liu came to Shanghai for a short time, but ended up staying for a good time. What started as a quick trip to catch a concert with friends turned into a job as fashion director at a then-popular athletic wear brand. That's something at the core of Shanghai: the unexpected opportunities that come from chance encounters. Ask any longtime local, and they'll tell you – Shanghai has changed massively in the past 5 to 10 years. But one thing that never changes? The city's endless capacity for connection.

A Modern Neoclassical Aesthetic

"Liu Yung Ming is a brand inspired fully by my lived experiences, not just a certain time era or movement. Elegance, glamor, and classics are the foundation of Liu Yung Ming. However, I don't like limiting myself to a single origin of inspiration", says Liu. Having his brand's roots going back to his early days trip to Paris and seeing the ripples of water on the river Seine, his approach to aesthetics and technique has been constantly evolving, especially working in an environment like Shanghai. "The fashion environment has changed here," Liu reflects, "but the vibes are the same. Fashion is far more complex than, say, art. With constant shifts in fabrics, trends, and styles – you can only survive if you have real passion."

A Boom Period

Shanghai's fashion scene has been developing in overdrive since 2015, when Liu felt that the fashion industry in Shanghai gained serious traction. An increasing number of events, showrooms, and design students have been flocking to the city to try their luck in this metropolis.

Liu mentions that from 2019 until 2021, Shanghai experienced fashion's golden age. The economy was booming, and countless young brands emerged during that period. "It felt like anything was possible," Liu says. "The creativity was endless."

Layered Lace and Quiet Experimentation

Liu Yung Ming's first pre-debut collection dates to 2021. Their signature: lace.

"Lace isn't just for old ladies," he laughs. "I wanted to make it modern, youthful, fashionable." From linings to full silhouettes, his take on lace is layered and experimental, but always wearable.

He often weaves historical touches into his designs – a cowl-back opening here, a 1920s flapper hem there. And now, he's pushing further: reducing artificial fabrics and incorporating unexpected materials like paper into his prototyping process.

Pre-debut (in fashion): Basically the designer's "soft launch." It's the creative era before they officially drop their brand or hit the runway. Think: experimental looks, vibe-testing, and finding their signature style – all before the big debut.

On Staying Inspired and his Latest Collection

In his most recent collection, Liu mentions how he returned to his roots with the River Seine. He recalls how the rippling water glistened at night and how the river's mysterious beauty inspired him to start his brand. In this collection, we see Liu's signature element: lace. However, in this iteration, the lace is dark, deep, and enticing. When we asked Liu about his favorite piece, he proudly mentioned a lovely two-piece set. The jacket and skirt are both made from the same lace fabric, layered with a special mesh to create a more durable and versatile material.

After more than a decade in the city, Liu is a Shanghai veteran who has witnessed Shanghai's transformation – from raw, youthful energy to a more refined and cultural capital of the East.

When asked what advice he'd give newcomers or longtime residents, he doesn't hesitate:

"The most important thing is to enrich your life with culture, not the internet. Shanghai is an amazing place to explore and expand your horizons. There are always new museums, stores, and events coming up. Go find what makes you happy, especially for people in the creative fields like fashion."