The beautiful Indonesian art form is elevated for modern fashionistas at these cool batik shops in Singapore.
Sometimes we like to keep it traditional when it comes to fashion. What can we say, we’re proud of the cheongsams, sarees and batik shops in Singapore. Batik itself is full of history – this ancient hand-dyeing technique from Java, Indonesia uses wax to map out intricate designs. The motifs themselves hold significant meaning – from the parang which symbolises war and victory, to the kawung which represents wisdom and power. These days, thanks to a new generation of designers, batik has been given a fresh transformation with modern cuts and elegant designs that can be worn by anyone, anytime.
Best batik shops in Singapore
1. Etna
For family sets, men’s shirts, jumpsuits, and couple sets
What happens when three childhood friends share a lifelong love for batik? They come together to open Etna, of course! An ode to nature, the brand hopes to be like Mount Etna – strong, expressive, and resilient. Designs embrace the traditions of batik with modern touches, as seen in the fun camisoles, dresses, and shorts.
Etna, shop online
2. AkaMotif
For men’s shirts, scarves, and bags
This authentic handmade brand offers unique motifs on textiles. We particularly love the Japanese-inspired sashiko and seigaiha in multiple styles. The shop caters to both adults and kids, and sells beautiful Indonesian accessories such as porcelain dolls, paper fans, brooches and coasters – all batik-inspired!
AkaMotif, #03-142, Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Road, Singapore 247933; daily, 10am to 8pm
3. Ozel
For men’s shirts, kid’s clothes, pet clothes, and custom pieces
Chic, classy and oh-so-easy to match. That’s exactly what we thought when we first saw the designs from local label Ozel. The brand seamlessly fuses traditional batik and songket designs for an edgy, modern ensemble for both genders. If that’s the look you’re going for, step right in to get a wardrobe upgrade. The collection highlights peplums, pinafores, high-waisted skirts and cardigans with a batik twist. Sizes go up to three XL, so full-figured ladies can join in the fun!
Ozel, #03-20, Golden Landmark Shopping Centre, 390 Victoria Street, Singapore 188061; Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 7pm; Sunday, 1pm to 5pm
4. Think Batik
For matching family sets, men’s shirts, and kid’s clothes
From wrap skirts and kebaya tops for ladies to suave batik shirts for guys, Think Batik has all the versatile pieces you need to infuse traditional batik prints into your everyday looks. Yup, this brand is the perfect example of how you can easily incorporate traditional looks into your modern outfits.
Think Batik, shop online
5. Baju by Oniatta
For scarves, skirts, and kimonos
Created by a full-time educator and mother, Baju by Oniatta is driven by Oniatta Effendi’s love for batik and seeing it being embraced in contemporary fashion. Her signature pants are made from quality batik sourced from different parts of Indonesia and the beauty of it is its versatility. You can wear it formally with a kebaya top or go casual and match yours with a t-shirt. No two pairs are the same, so you’ll be wearing something completely unique! Besides pants, she also has shirt dresses, skirts, blouses and even batik fabric itself. Go ahead and do your own thing with it.
Think Batik, 757 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198725; Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to6pm
6. ANERDstore
For dresses, blouses, men’s shirts, and pouches
We’re all for conscious practices, and we swooned over the ethos of this batik shop in Singapore. Each item is handcrafted using traditional methods – handstamped (batik cap) and hand-drawn (batik tulis) by artisans in Indonesia. The meticulous technique is applied to modern looks like culottes, blouses and outerwear.
ANERDstore, shop online and at 29 Perak Road, Singapore 208146; Wednesday to Saturday, 12pm to 7pm
7. Batique
For men’s shirts, dresses, shorts, and kid’s clothes
Hunting down uber cute matchy outfits for the whole fambam? Batique is your go-to. Shop new designs of batik sets for everyone. Rock those sarong wraps and kebayas or dress the young ones in adorable batik shirts. Sizes go up to double XL for both ladies and gents.
Batique, shop online
8. Gypsied
For jackets, pants, vests, and dresses
We’re all for a conscious label so when we heard about Gypsied’s lovely cause, we were smitten. Gypsied works closely with textile artisans and cooperatives and expert craftsmen to bring you conscious pieces with a story. We love the look of the batik skirts that go with pretty much any top, ideal for a casual day out or a fancy dinner party.
Gypsied, shop online
9. YeoMama Batik
For men’s shirts, jumpsuits, cheongsams, and activewear
If you aren’t already following this lovely brand on Insta, get to it now. This label is all about handmade batik designs spanning tops, dresses, the cutest jumpsuits and even dungarees. Sizes range from UK 6 to UK 16, including options for the guys and kiddos. Just drop by the boutique to try some pieces on – trust us, you might suffer from choice paralysis.
YeoMama Batik, shop online and at #01-87, Oxley Bizhub, 65 Ubi Road 1, Singapore 408729; daily, 12pm to 7pm
10. Wellie Batik
For men’s shirts, fabrics, and dresses
Specialising in authentic Indonesian batik, Wellie Batik has traditional shirts, fabric, sarongs and assorted home decor pieces like cushion covers, tablecloths and aprons. The shop has been in the business for over 40 years, so you can bet these folks really know their batik.
Wellie Batik, shop online and at #03-06, Holland Road Shopping Centre, 211 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278967; Monday to Saturday, 10am to 6.30pm; Sunday, 11.30am to 6.30pm
11. Utopia Apparels
For activewear, kid’s clothes, and family sets
Find your next statement piece at Utopia Apparels. This shop offers everything from eye-catching block print palazzo pants to bright halter neck jumpsuits. There are even matching sets available for the whole family. Complete your look with complementary accessories. We’re obsessed with the jade earrings that are the perfect mix of traditional and chic.
Utopia Apparels, shop online and at 47 Haji Lane, Singapore 189240 Monday to Thursday, 11am to 8pm; Friday to Sunday, 11am to 9pm
12. Amanda Hartanto Batik
For dresses, pants, skirts, and blazers
With styles for every woman, Amanda Hartanto’s pieces are edgy and fashion-forward. But, you can also find feminine and dreamy silhouettes in her collection. One thing she doesn’t shy away from? Traditional prints, which she utilises proudly.
Amanda Hartanto Batik, shop online
13. Little Nyonya Batik
For kebayas, men’s shirts, and shoes
Unlike the other places giving batik a modern twist, Little Nyonya Batik keeps it old school. Celebrating Peranakan culture, this designer offers authentic and traditional pieces. Check out pretty embroidered kebaya tops, along with vibrant-coloured batik fabric to pair with.
Little Nyonya Batik, shop online and at #02-01, The Adelphi, 1 Coleman Street, Singapore 179803; Thursday to Tuesday; 11.30am to 5pm; Wednesday, 12pm to 5pm; closed on Sundays
14. Anmako
For men’s shirts, dresses, women’s shirts, and scarves
Heritage never goes out of style at Anmako. The brand combines the traditional Indonesian art of batik with modern Japanese flair, drawing inspiration from Singapore’s cosmopolitan blend of cultures. Designs are kept simple and clean with meticulously selected raw materials to ensure quality. The result? Gorgeous pieces that range from dresses to pyjamas and menswear.
Anmako, shop online and at #01-05, Parc Palais, 51 Hume Avenue, Singapore 598750; daily, 10.30am to 9.30pm
Add a touch of tradition and culture to your looks at these batik shops in Singapore!
