Hidden gems: Singapore’s unique boutiques and brands you might not know about

Singapore is known as a shopping haven so be sure to include some retail therapy in your itinerary. There’s a growing number of up-and-coming and homegrown brands offering everything from bold street fashion and bespoke jewelry to handcrafted accessories.

Check out this guide to discover something new on your next visit.  

Get ready for an all-immersive shopping experience at Dover Street Market. Known for its selection of high-end urban streetwear brands, Dover Street Market Singapore is housed in an old army barracks at Dempsey Hill. This concept store sells all Comme des Garçons brands, cult favorites such as Jacquemus, and collections by emerging local and regional designers like The Salvages and Paradise Youth Club.  

Indie boutiques, vintage stores, quirky cafes, bars, and bakeries line this lively alleyway in the heart of Kampong Glam, one of Singapore’s oldest urban quarters. Look out for trendy yet affordable brands, grab some lunch or pick up a traditional handicraft as a souvenir. Colorful graffiti and wall murals serve as the perfect backdrop for your Instagram shots.  

When: 11 Oct–10 Nov 2022

Rubies, sapphires, emeralds—be dazzled by these stunning gemstones and more at the MADLY Gems pop-up, in collaboration with ION’s Marmalade Pantry. This homegrown fine jewelry brand offers some of the world’s finest gems in bespoke designs, perfect for that heirloom piece or a special occasion. Look out for event-exclusive items.

This multi-label collective appeals to fashion-forward Gen Zs and those looking for something different. Set up in a spacious warehouse, Spades Room supports up-and-coming brands from the region and around the world. Pick up cool threads from Stilnook, Mobius Mise, Ghostboy, and 95 Miles.  

When: 25–27 Nov 2022

Boutique Fairs Singapore is back at the F1 Pit Building, featuring a mix of independent, design-led, and socially responsible brands from the region. Get your tickets and revisit your favorite brands or discover new ones at over 100 stalls offering everything from fashion, beauty, accessories, home décor, food, and more.  

Looking for something uniquely Asian to bring home? Baju by Oniatta is dedicated to reimagining Batik for the modern wardrobe. Available exclusively at Galeri Tokokita, you can shop for some ready-to-wear batik apparel and art pieces nestled in history-rich Kampong Glam. The ancient wax-and-dye art form is taken to new heights at this homegrown boutique, where you’ll find modern designs to suit a special occasion or the office. 

Design Orchard is an integrated retail and incubation space—you can browse collections from emerging local designers on the ground floor while the upper floors serve as a co-working space for designers and makers. Need a breather after all that shopping? Step out onto the rooftop garden to rest your feet and take in the bustling Orchard Road vibe from above.  

When: Opens early Dec 2022

Chocoholics, listen up. Homegrown company Mr. Bucket Chocolaterie is opening a chocolate factory at Dempsey. The 5,000-square-foot retail concept will feature Singapore’s first build-your-own chocolate bar section. Sign up for a workshop or simply bag some sweet treats. Don’t be surprised to find unusual flavors such as calamansi (Philippine lime) bonbons.  

Local lifestyle brand Onlewo is known for its contemporary designs inspired by Singapore’s history and culture. From upholstery to wallpaper, cushion covers, and curtain fabric, you can find elegant yet bold colors and patterns that will create a sense of nostalgia. Fun fact: American singer-songwriter Charlie Puth checked out Onlewo on his recent visit to Singapore.