t is really hard to find parking in the capital city of this modern, yet historical, metropolis. Being comfortable and stylish while navigating public transit or zipping around on your scooter or bike is important to the “look” in Taipei City.

Downtown sidewalks are essentially scooter parking lots. No wonder helmets are a key accessory and means of individual expression…as is the cell phone, which men and women (but especially women) personalize with dangling, cute charms that represent a Chinese zodiac sign or Hello Kitty.

Really popular with young adults: leggings/tights with tunics and colorful sneakers (usually Converse, or lookalikes). Men favor canvas messenger bags (but not necessarily designer label) and hoodies/warmup jackets that channel Fred Perry or Adidas.