Borsalino makes its Shanghai debut with a first pop-up at PLAZA 66

Borsalino lands in Shanghai with the opening of its first pop-up store, marking a significant step in the brand’s international expansion and a strategic move into the Greater China market, in partnership with Essence Group. Set within the prestigious Plaza 66 luxury mall (unit B106B), the approximately 20-square-meter space will open on April 10th and run through early August, paving the way for a permanent boutique in the same location.

Though compact in size, the pop-up delivers an immersive retail experience, reinterpreting Borsalino’s heritage through a contemporary lens. Clean lines, subtle transparencies and a restrained palette punctuated by graphic accents create a refined setting where the product takes center stage—its materials and craftsmanship fully on display. The concept strikes a balance between tradition and modernity, while retaining the unmistakable character of Italian design.

The selection spotlights seasonal highlights, with a focus on raffia styles and rollable hats—pieces that embody a more versatile, functional approach to contemporary dressing. These sit alongside a curated edit of heritage felt designs, including the iconic Qualità Superiore and 50 Grammi, paying tribute to the Maison’s enduring savoir-faire.

Tailored to the local market, the pop-up also incorporates dedicated services such as remote purchasing and customer interaction via WeChat, reflecting the evolving habits of Chinese luxury consumers.

With Shanghai, Borsalino adds a new chapter to its global narrative, engaging a new generation of clients while continuing to bridge artisanal tradition with a modern, forward-looking perspective.