Shanghai is a shopper's paradise. Locals flock to Nanjing Dong Lu and Huaihai Zhong Lu for mid-to-high range department stores, retail stores, and luxury shops. Tourists find souvenirs among the stalls around Yu Gardens, the gift market north of Jing'an Temple, the fakes market in the Science and Technology Museum metro station in Pudong (comprised of former tenants of the infamous Xiangyang Market, shut down in 2007), the international fashion brand shops and high-end boutiques of Xintiandi, and the funkier independent shops and galleries in Taikang Lu. In between those destinations, there's no shortage of things to buy, and aimlessly strolling in the former French Concession one is sure to stumble upon a delightful surprise or two. For gizmos and gadgets, try Xujiahui or one of several electronics markets (for better bargains try Electronic City at the intersection of Xiangyang Lu and Fuxing Lu; for a more reliable quality try the mall at Huaihai Zhong Lu and Huangpi Nan Lu just north of Xintiandi).

Silk

If your itinerary doesn't include a visit in Suzhou or Hangzhou, get your silk in Shanghai. You can try the stalls of the Silk City on the corner of Maoming Lu and Nanjing Lu or the Fabric Market on Lujiabang Lu. Remember to bargain.

Tailored Clothing

If your trip allows a week or so in the city, take advantage of one of Shanghai's clothing markets or a small, high-quality tailor shop. Offering designs made to order, tailors can create custom suits, dresses, skirts and trousers at more than reasonable prices. You can get a traditional Chinese qipao, a fitted Mao jacket, an exact copy of an old worn-out favorite, or a Vera Wang knockoff—the choice is yours. Great bargains and an astonishing variety of cloth can be found at the South Bund Fabric Market (presently located at 399 Lujiabang Lu south of the Old City, but rumored to be moving in the next year or two). Remember to bargain and plan enough time for follow-up fittings. Gold, Silver and Jewelry Large jewelry stores filled with gold, platinum, and silver can be found around Yu Gardens, along Huaihai Zhong Lu and Nanjing Dong Lu and in Xujiahui. Try Taikang Lu for smaller, custom boutiques and studios. Many locals recommend heading to Hong Kong for the better deals and variety.

Jade

Jade, an auspicious stone for the Chinese, comes in an array of colors and can be carved into many interesting shapes. But be careful—vendors have been known to pass off fakes on unwitting tourists. Jade varies wildly in quality and price, so unless you're a serious collector, limit yourself to a few affordable souvenirs. Find the largest jade vendors in the Yu Gardens Bazaar.

Pearls

Semi-precious cultured pearls are plentiful in Shanghai markets and department stores. Local pearls are cultivated from freshwater mussels and are the best value in town. As always, be aware of fakes, though you can usually detect a phony with a simple test: Rub the pearl on your tooth, and if it feels gritty, it's real; if slippery and smooth, it's probably fake. Pearl City, Hong Qiao New World Pearl Market, Amy's Pearls and Jewelry, and the top floor of the First Asia Jewelry Plaza all offer huge selections, and a number of dealers can be found in Yu Gardens Bazaar. In many stores you can even create your own design and have it made right before your eyes.