Color coded: McQueen's loafers and ladies' pumps. Photo by Pauline D. Loh / Shanghai Star

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BNC is definitely worth a look, as it so clearly traces the development and maturity of the young Chinese designers, who have gone from catwalk flights of fancy to very wearable pieces that still retain lots of character. The inclusion of BNC is indicative of Value Retail’s thoughtful merchandising mix. There is something to please everybody from the young, edgy labels favored by the so-called fashionistas to the staid standards preferred by those after elegance with more staying power.

Discounts are generous, and can go up to about 70 percent, but this is no bargain basement. Every shop retains all the design characteristics of signature boutiques and there is hushed luxury combined with a pleasant, unhurried casualness to the whole shopping experience.

Suzhou Village is a strategic partner of the Fairmont Hotel Yangcheng Lake nearby, and the hotel can arrange for transport to the outlet as well.