What’s hot on Singapore’s shopping scene

Zenchi
Zen made his first dress when he was 16. But it was a dress he made for a high-profile editor in Singapore in 2009 that enabled the label Zenchi to come alive. His simple, understated gowns made from Japanese silk and satin have found fans in Naomi Campbell, Zoe Tay and Kit Chan. He creates bespoke pieces for his clients, and his prêt pieces can be altered to specification at the boutique. Zen is a one-man show, working through the whole process of creating the perfect dress for you all by himself. (Website. From S$400 or ₹16,000)

Ong Shunmugam
Priscilla Shunmugam, the half-Indian, half-Chinese designer behind the label, is an embodiment of Singapore’s new wave of designers. Her statement dresses use traditional Asian textiles such as batik, lace and Indian and Chinese brocade in form-fitting contemporary cuts, lines and styles. Her overall style is eclectic, classy and original. Far from peddling ‘fusion’, it is a thoughtful blend of tradition and modernity—much like Singapore. (Website. From S$488 or ₹22,330)

Zalora
This mid-range online marketplace for men’s and women’s clothes, shoes and accessories stocks its eponymous label, as well as international brands such as River Island and Betsey Johnson. Known for its extensive range of women’s shoes and highly discounted prices and free delivery for purchases above S$21 (₹960), it has a huge following in Singapore and the surrounding region. (Website. From S$7 or ₹320)

Emblem
Highly regarded for its comfortable ballet flats, Emblem prides itself on getting the fundamentals right. The brand’s USP is that the shoes are handmade with leather, inside and out. The flats feature “in-built padding into the insole, which mould to your feet”. Yup, we’re definitely fans. (Website. From S$241 or ₹11,000)

Actually
This concept store is known for putting a truly original mix of quirky brands under one roof: local up-and-coming labels include YESAH, Mae Pang and 20:twothree. Pick from a range of sneakers, backpacks, denims, graphic tees and more. (Website. From S$12 or ₹550)

Mandy T
This store’s philosophy is to make chemical-free, natural skincare products with plant-based alternatives—and to keep things as simple as possible. The cult favourite is the Jasmine+Mint body scrub, but the Black Rice+Coconut and Lemongrass+Wild Honey soaps smell good enough to eat. (Website. From S$26 or ₹1,190)

DrGL
Dr Georgia Lee is the brains behind this hi-tech premium skincare and make-up brand. Her extensive line of products also caters to men, treats hair loss and is suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Dr Lee, who has a cult following in Singapore, claims to be involved at every stage of development and ensures that each product is of the highest quality. (Website. From S$6 or ₹275)

Carrie K
If you are looking for playfully interesting (and sometimes eyebrow-raising) artisan-crafted jewellery, a Carrie K original is what you should get. Designer Carolyn Kan’s works “celebrate the beauty of imperfection and marvel at the mundane in everyday life”. She does necklaces, rings, cuffs and even bow ties. Carolyn had a very successful advertising career and was on a year’s sabbatical when she found herself in a silversmith’s atelier in Florence. The rest, as they say, is history. The brand is known for its silver jewellery but has recently introduced gold, black diamonds and other materials into its latest Jackson Pollock-inspired collection called ‘A Beautiful Mess’. (Website. From S$158 or ₹7,230)

Marilyn Tan Jewellery
Here you will find one-of-a-kind pieces made mainly with semi-precious stones, silver and 18ct white and yellow gold. Tan has spent 20 years creating unique pieces by hand and is largely influenced by nature, the environment and her travels. Look for her cocktail rings and statement necklaces. (Website. Price on request)

Sara Taseer
In just a span of four years, Pakistan-born Sara Taseer has made a name for herself in the luxury jewellery market in the Lion City. The former banker, who has lived in major world cities such as Hong Kong, London and New York, says her work is a combination of Eastern and Western design concepts. “It’s made for the modern woman who is independent in style and taste, strong and secure but still sensuous and stylish.” Specialising in diamond and precious stone jewellery, her minaret collection draws inspiration from Mughal architecture. (Website. From S$2,681 or ₹1,22,700)

Commune
If you are looking for top quality wooden furniture, Commune will make you feel very much at home with its contemporary, minimalist, artisanal furniture. The pieces are designed by an international team based in Singapore, and the timber and wood itself are sustainably sourced from the US, Europe and Southeast Asia. The furniture is assembled in China, Malaysia and Vietnam in order to keep it affordable. (Website. From S$52 or ₹3,080)

iwannagohome
The store offers a variety of furniture, accessories, art, sculpture, china, linen, kitchen supplies and more—sourced from around the world. There is no singular design theme; in fact, the store’s USP is the different styles available, which ensures that there’s something here for everyone. (Website. From S$2 or ₹90)

Pomelo
A multi-brand furniture and home accessories store, Pomelo showcases some excellent small, independent brands with a focus on design and quality. “Many of our pieces are heirloom quality, and are built to last a lifetime and more,” says founder Raymond Quah, a former advertising creative director. Signature pieces include the George Nelson Bubble Lamps and the 675 Chair by Robin Day for Case, which was designed in 1952 and yet seems contemporary. (Website. From S$34 or ₹1,560)