Every Singaporean loves a good bargain when shopping, hitting up the mass chains and international brands for good deals. It’s a safer and much easier journey, as you can order online from your favourite shop and know that the sizing will fit you just right.
But with everyone shopping from the same brands, you might feel the urge to dress just a little differently after seeing three of the same Uniqlo tee in one hour. Or maybe you just want to show a little support to the local fashion scene.
Singapore’s local fashion scene is growing slowly but steadily with many small online shops and designers, but it might be hard to track down those interesting collections. For some retail therapy with a local touch, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite homegrown brands.
Charles & Keith
The footwear giant appears so frequently in all the major shopping malls that its easy to forget that it’s one of our most successful local brands. Thanks to Maisie Williams who brought the Charles & Keith bags to Hollywood, the brand is now known all over the world for their affordable yet stylish shoes. Their shoe styles range from 90s chic and modern office lady to more experimental trendy designs. They also have a range of matching accessories like sunnies, wallets, card holders, bags, and even children’s shoes.
ModParade
Go big or go home, right? Every outfit from ModParade will bring a smile to your face with their bold prints and popping colours. Mix and match cheeky tops or pull on a flattering sundress. Their vibrant detailing like ruffles and contrasting buttons add splashes of colours, reminiscent of our year-long summer weather here.
Our Second Nature
A balance between everyday neutrals and streamlined silhouettes, the highlight of every collection from Our Second Nature is an artsy print. Available in relaxed separates like drape dresses and wrap kimonos, each piece is unique thanks to the irregular print. Their fuss free pieces are good for layering and building the foundation of your wardrobe. And the clothes are as comfortable as they look, because the founder intended them to be worn everyday.
Benjamin Barker
Here’s one where the boys can indulge too. Benjamin Barker is a purveyor of smart casual dressing in forever summer weather. You’ll find a range of classic and modern styles, all bursting with personality and fine details. If you’re into pantsuits, they do have a very limited by equally dapper ladies selection with dress shirts and fitted blazers.
Weekend Sundries
There isn’t anything like seasonal collections over at Weekend Sundries. Staying true to its ethos as a quality, timeless and breathable comfort brand, Weekend Sundries is all about conscious living. Their fabrics are all natural and eco-conscious, with factories in Singapore and partner workshops in Indonesia and Vietnam.
The Shirt Bar
Who says formal wear is dreary and boring? Stop by The Shirt Bar to inject some personality into your look with printed shirts, dapper socks and necktie sets, and cufflinks. Throw on some suspenders to rock the look, and you’ll be knocking the socks off everyone in a one metre radius.
Ginlee Studio
Ginlee Studio creates some of the softest silk dresses and tops ever for that effortless chic look. Their soft silhouettes and muted hues look sophisticated, not sloppy. Layer up or down depending on the occasion, and you can create endless looks with a little creativity. The secret to their enthralling clothes? Intricate embroidery and crepe de chine fabric will keep you cool even on the hottest of days.
