Itching for some retail therapy in Singapore? Here’s a guide to help you suss out where to go. From luxury boutiques to indie labels and budget buys, these are the best spots to get some serious shopping done
Luxury Shopping:
The Shoppes At Marina Bay Sands (MBS)
Get your designer fix with row after row of high-end luxury labels like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and more at The Shoppes. Marina Bay Sands also houses a number of restaurants by celebrity chefs like Wolfgang Puck and Gordon Ramsay, a museum, a theatre, and the iconic rooftop infinity pool that’s all over Instagram. Its surroundings exude modern glam, befitting its status as the number 1 port of call for those with deep pockets. Credit cards beware!
Mandarin Gallery
For somewhere a little more central, head over to Mandarin Gallery at Orchard Road, which features a mix of some of the biggest international brands, as well as local designers. Make sure to check out some of the multi-label boutiques like Et-i-kit, undress, and Surrender, where you can find a range of cult labels from all over the world.
Shopping Mecca
Orchard Road
Luxury goods not your thing? That’s okay! If you only have a few hours, or at the most, half a day to spare, head to Orchard Road. Similar to London’s Oxford Street or Tokyo’s Ginza, this 2.2km long stretch of road is Singapore’s most famous shopping street – Orchard Road. Bordered by shopping malls on both sides of the road, you can find a good mix of mid to high-end brands, heaps of dining options, strategically located hotels, beauty parlors, and of course, entertainment located within. All you have to do is decide where to begin!
Shopping Malls
ION Orchard
If you only make it to one shopping mall, it’s gotta be ION Orchard. Voted the best shopping centre in Singapore three years in a row at the AsiaOne People’s Choice Awards 2016, its futuristic and ultra modern exterior is unlike any other mall in the vicinity. With more than 300 stores including 6 luxury flagship stores and popular international brands, a wide range of food choices scattered over all 8 floors, an art gallery, and an indoor observation deck, you’ll get a shopping experience like no other.
Vivocity
As the largest mall in Singapore, Vivocity is a shopping, entertainment, and lifestyle destination rolled into one. There are a whole lot of shopping options suitable for the whole family, from kids’ clothes and sports stores to home decor and jewelry, this mall is truly a one-stop shop. If you don’t happen to be in the mood for shopping, that’s okay; there’s plenty here to keep everyone amused including a rooftop sky park, a cinema, and numerous dining options.
Hipster Finds
Kampong Glam
This is the place to be if you’re looking to pick up some quirky, indie pieces you can’t find elsewhere. As Singapore’s original hipster neighborhood, Kampong Glam is peppered with eclectic boutiques, cool bars, charming cafés, and interesting restaurants. Wander down Haji Lane, where you can find stylish boutiques that offer everything from clothes and accessories to home ware. Turn into Arab Street and you’ll find yourself surrounded by stores selling textiles and carpets. If you get hungry from all that walking, check out Bali Lane and Beach Road, there are a wide variety of restaurants to cater to everyone’s taste.
Budget Buys
Bugis Village
This shopping spot is massive! With more than 600 shops over three floors, most of them offering the latest in women’s and men’s clothing, shoes, and accessories at affordable prices, Bugis Street is a true budget shopping place in Singapore that attracts a huge number of shopaholics daily. It may seem daunting at first, but if you’re willing to look, you’re sure to pick up some good buys. If you get peckish after all your shopping, head down to the first floor where there’s a row of food and drinks stalls featuring all sorts of yummy snacks.
Far East Plaza
Word of warning: there are so many stores here that it may be overwhelming if this is your first visit. Not only can you expect trendy clothes, shoes, and accessories at a wallet-friendly price, but there are a number of tailors and tattoo shops within its 6 floors as well.
Far East Plaza is also great if you’re looking to pamper yourself but don’t want to spend a bomb. With stores offering express manicures for $5, and hair services from $30, it’s going to be easy to look like a million bucks.
Souvenir Shopping
Chinatown
For a more traditional experience, take a stroll through the streets of Chinatown – specifically Pagoda Street and Temple Street – where you’ll find many small shops and stalls. You’ll come across trinkets, gifts and souvenirs, home décor, and lots more! Don’t forget to look up; the colorful façade of the heritage buildings are beautiful.