It’s difficult to miss Marimekko in Sanlitun’s Taikoo Li shopping mall. Despite being tucked in a shaded corner near the escalators, its facade pops with rainbow-colored patterns dancing on the surfaces of clothing and pottery, a modern display of mid-century Scandinavian print at its finest.

The classic brand provides a top-notch selection of women’s wear for the upcoming holiday season. Expect finds like Jacqueline Kennedy-era smock dresses spontaneously spotted and scattered with whimsical illustrations, slim-cut cropped trousers in Lumimarja bright orange berry print, a classic boat neck black and white striped blouse with buttons up the back, and a hidden cubby of polka dot socks. The sunny display is enough to melt away even the coldest Beijing winter blues.

Those who don’t see an outfit in the shop that perfectly suits them may want to browse the 15 bolts of fabric, sold for RMB 650-750 per meter. The famous Unikko poppy print, designed by Finnish artist Maija Isola in 1964, is a top seller and available in both their original red and multicolored versions.

Clothing aside, Marimekko hosts a selection of ceramic plates, bowls and mugs that match the most popular prints, but for those staying in the northern capital this holiday season and attending one or more of those “secret Santa” holiday parties, we recommend kitchen textiles: matching sets of dishtowels, aprons and oven mitts in, you guessed it, playful shades and prints. When gifting these, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a host with the most who won’t be grinning.

Marimekko
Daily 10am-10pm. S8-10C, Taikoo Li Sanlitun South, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (6416 4626)
朝阳区三里屯路11号太古里三里屯南区S8-10C

Also try: IKEA, Chang and Biörck

Read this article and others like it in the January issue of the Beijinger here.

Photo courtesy of Marimekko