As the world slowly turns away from mass produced global brands with dubious human rights records, hunting for artisan and locally made products are the shopping styles of today. Recently we had a chance to explore the gentrified Joo Chiat neighbourhood which we found so appealing in its aesthetics, dining efforts and for me especially retail therapy. So many little vintage boutiques, art stores, comprised of handmade and unique items. Here’s a list of shops I ventured into and loved.

So Jao instagram link here

So jao meaning to sleep in Hindi- a wonderful arts shop showcasing mainly unique works and products of Singaporean and some Japanese artists and artisans. Organic bedsheets, painting of classic Good Morning towels, photography by eminent artists depicting the unspoken but marginalised communities, miniature plants, essential oils based scents for the home. It is definitely worth a stopover to pick up some postcards or little art piece.

A Vintage Tale, instagram link here

Gorgeous vintage clothes, bags and accessories. Pick up beaded and diamante D&G handbags, Miu Miu clutches, LV sunglasses and Chanel broches at half the ori price (though note that Singaporean second hand prices for designer items are still quite high if compared to KL). The word vintage is not used lightly here ie it’s not last seasons bag but items sourced from 40s till the 80s. I did not take many photos in the shop as you tend to get sucked into the Disneyland fun of trying out all the items but hop onto their IG page to get a sense of their wares.

Crane Living, instagram link here

Crane Living is a pretty, country vibe shop attached to an equally charming cafe and offers loads of local artistic products for the home. Items are priced a little on the higher side but it had a small selection of products from a local brand I have been keeping my eye on photophactory which sells contemporary interpretations of Peranakan ceramics and art manifested into house deco, clothes and travel items.

Cat Socrates instagram link here

This was one of my favourite shops. It had a selection of housewares, tablewares, stationary, books and even yoga mats but the items had a more modern and functional twist to it. The modern Peranakan patterns to the plates were made of bamboo fibre which is practical and less breakable (although not microwave friendly). It’s perfect for gifts and kid friendly homes.

What Women Want instagram link here

This is yet again one of my favourite shops that I acquired a few Peranakan ceramic spoons and sauce bowls from but I unfortunately did not take many photos. In addition to the usual Joo Chiat spiel of modernised Peranakan ceramics, the store also hosts beautiful dresses, summery outfits and chic jewellery from Brazil, and espadrilles from India and Europe. The pictures below are taken from their instagram page.

Joo Chiat is worth a visit even if you are not a shopaholic. There are lovely boujie cafes, hole in the wall coffee, and stunningly refurbished local townhouses that adds something special to the city. Half a morning spent here will undoubtedly leave you with some good photos and a delicious brunch if not some shopping bags.