Show some love for local brands! Hit up these fashion, lifestyle and homeware stores in Singapore for all your shopping needs.
Here’s a PSA in case you’re only about big brands and malls: the retail world is filled with cool indie boutiques. Singapore is home to artists who are bursting with creativity. So hop off the mainstream shopping train and hit up these awesome local brands in Singapore for quirky memorabilia, cool decor and kitschy wares.
Shopping in Singapore: Cool local brands
1. Elizabeth Little
Lovingly handmade with organic cotton and fine Japanese linen, Elizabeth Little creates colourful vintage-inspired slow fashion pieces. It aims to preserve traditional sewing techniques while creating designs in limited quantities, encouraging sustainability. You’ll find an array of gorgeous handcrafted dresses and accessories here. Plus, you can even get matching outfits customised for you and the whole family.
Elizabeth Little, #03-06, Block A, 10 Winstedt Road, Singapore 227977
2. Okvmi
Combine gym attire with streetwear, and you’ve got Okvmi’s line of products. The clothes are comfortable and breathable, which makes them perfect for a workout. They’re also fashionable enough for you to show up for a night out without compromising on style. Sport the minimalist oversized tees in black or white, or grab the sweatpants that are slim fit and embroidered with the Okvmi logo. You’ll be back for another pair after you try them out at the gym.
Okami, available online
3. Sincerely, Cherise
For fans of oceanscapes and homeware, check out Sincerely, Cherise. What started as an experimental hobby turned into a small business as Cherise creates beautiful pieces of homeware and jewellery that feature the sea. Each one is handmade, and because of the nature of resin, the patterns and colours are unique to every piece. Cherise makes small batches of her homeware and often appears during popups, so follow her social media to get wind of her next drop!
Sincerely, Cherise, available online
4. Independent Market
Launched to appreciate independent Singaporean designers, makers and publishers, this market has a curation of local brands you don’t want to miss out on. From creative gift ideas to mooncake earrings and eye-catching notebooks, you can get your hands on some of the city’s classic goods!
Independent Market, #03-01, Holland Road Shopping Centre, 211 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278967
5. Nana & Bird
Set up by two fashion-loving best friends, this humble little local shop tucked in a quiet corner of the hip Tiong Bahru estate offers charming little trinkets and edgy, up-to-date fashion pieces for the ladies. Look out for fab local labels like Shirt Number White, Rye, Source Collection and more.
Nana & Bird, 1M Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168641
6. Supermama
A store, an artist residency studio, a gallery and a space for people to escape, this tranquil spot is inspired by local experiences and has a loyal following. It stocks an array of wittily and handsomely designed souvenirs – and it’s just a cool space just to hang out!
Supermama, multiple locations including National Museum of Singapore and Asian Civilisations Museum
7. When I was Four
That’s how you’ll feel when you step into this hipster store – like a four-year-old. Everything has a local slant to it, from the familiar jotter book-designed pouches and curry puff cushion covers to the leopard balm socks (a cheeky spoof of the iconic Tiger Balm brand) and the Singaporean motif-inspired tees.
When I was Four, #04-41, Bras Basah Complex, 231 Bain Street, Singapore 180231
8. In Good Company
This local fashion brand forgoes the typical seasonal dictates of fashion and focuses instead on creating essentials for the Singaporean wardrobe. In Good Company’s aesthetic of sophisticated and classic silhouettes is tailored to Singapore’s weather. Seriously, you won’t be able to resist snagging a creation or two for yourself.
In Good Company, multiple locations including Ion and Tangs Plaza
9. Actually
Here’s a shopaholic’s dream come true. This cutting-edge, multi-label concept store carries an eclectic mix of premium streetwear brands such as Freitag, Baggu, and Keen. With a playful shop interior (you’ll find the place littered with toys), the store constantly switches up and rotates items on the shelf, so you’ll always find something new to covet.
Actually, #03-19, Orchard Gateway, 277 Orchard Road, Singapore 238858
10. Cat Socrates
There’s so much to love about Cat Socrates! We’re not just talking about its feline inhabitants. In between its cat-themed stationery, bedding, and books, you’ll find everything from coasters to colourful terrazzo wireless chargers and handmade journals. It’s truly a treasure to behold, so take your time to sift through the shelves of kitschy treasures.
Cat Socrates, multiple locations Tiong Bahru and Joo Chiat
11. Design Orchard
A one-stop-shop for local designer fashion and home decor, this sleek store on Orchard Road has a good mix of emerging and established brands that are all local. It’s also home to an incubation centre for design start-ups and a rooftop amphitheatre that’s open to the public for lounging.
Design Orchard, 250 Orchard Road, Singapore 238905
12. The General Company
Find a well-curated selection of artisanal wares made by young, emerging crafters and makers. The range includes dishes, trays, and planters. Just pop by this quaint store for a peek. If you’re keen on getting your hands dirty, sign yourself up for one of their many workshops and create something of your own.
The General Company, 115 King George’s Avenue, Singapore 208561
Whatever floats your retail boat, check out these awesome Singapore local brands for a shopping trip to remember!
