When designers Liushu Lei and Yutong Jiang founded their Shanghai-based womenswear brand Shushu/Tong in 2015, they set out to create an aesthetic that combined Japanese retro horror film visuals with the edge of French erotica. “Cuteness isn’t just about tenderness or softness,” Lei explained in an interview last year. “It can also be very powerful.”
But the duo grew up far removed from Shinjuku or Le Marais. They went to high school in Chengdu, an industrial city in Sichuan province, then became friends at Shanghai’s Donghua University in 2009, before eventually graduating from Master’s programs at London College of Fashion.
Lei and Jiang reconnected after internships at Simone Rocha and Gareth Pugh, respectively, and named their brand after their nicknames, “Shushu” and “Tongtong.” By the time their first collection dropped, it was already on the racks of Lane Crawford, one of mainland China and Hong Kong’s most coveted retailers. Last year, they earned a spot on the Business of Fashion’s 500 list, and now their wares are sold everywhere in stores like Opening Ceremony and 10 Corso Como. Here, the duo share their go-to restaurants, hotels, and sights in their home city.
SHU SHU’S LIST
LABELHOOD
Labelhood celebrates a new generation of Chinese designers and artists, fostering an incredible community around them. Their multi-brand stores are a great starting point for anyone looking to explore the vibrant world of Chinese fashion. (labelhood.com)
JC Plaza 锦沧文华广场
A chic department store that feels like a boutique. It features the trendiest designer brands, including our very own Shushu/Tong flagship store—a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts! (maps.app)
Museum of art Pudong
This recently opened museum is set to elevate China’s art scene to new heights. (museumofartpd.org.cn)
Jing Cai Xuan 晶彩轩
This restaurant serves exquisite Cantonese cuisine, making it a perfect place for anyone trying authentic Chinese food for the first time. I bring friends here often. (tripadvisor.com)
Qingchuan Chongqing Hot Pot 青川·山城老火锅工作室
Hot pot is an important part of Chinese food culture. The moment you open the door to Qingchuan, you’re greeted by the incredible aroma of spices. The spicy hot pot is my comfort food. (maps.apple.com)
Maolago 毛辣果
Guizhou cuisine is trending in Shanghai. Maolago is a must-visit if you want a taste of its sour and spicy flavors. (timeoutshanghai.com)
Terrier
Terrier is a cozy lounge bar and my go-to spot for fresh cocktails on Friday nights. (google.com/maps)
Yuhetang 裕和堂
The perfect place to relieve work stress with a traditional Chinese massage. (google.com/maps)
Tong Tong’s List
FINE FAN ZAKKA & CANTEEN
A delightful Japanese-Italian fusion restaurant with charming decor. Everything here, from the food to the menu, is cute and whimsical. (maps.apple.com)
HAO HAO LAUGH
A nostalgic grocery store filled with quirky and funny items. (instagram.com)
Shanghai Concert Hall
I attended Shanghai Concert Hall’s New Year’s concert, and it was beautiful. The hall itself is a lovely historic building and an iconic part of the city. (shanghaiconcerthall.org)
Gongqing Forest Park
The best spot for picnics during spring and autumn. I always have a great time when I visit.
Shanghai Natural History Museum
I come here to watch all the lovely animal specimens, many of which have gone viral as memes on Chinese social media for their funny facial expressions. (snhm.org.cn)
