10 Fresh Store Recommendations for the New Year

agnès b. VOYAGE

Even before you browse through its extensive collection of its Bijoux range of accessories, its mainly crystal and steel finishing will set the festive mood. Once you’re in, the quirky accessory range spanning necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets and cufflinks (from $125) will bowl you over, while those looking for more substantial presents can check out the extensive range of shoulder bags, backpacks and wallets (from $245).

Artsyfact

Founders Aaron Koh, Casey Loh and Leon Lai (no, not the Cantopop singer) scour the island’s estates, homes and flea markets for unwanted junk, then repurpose and restore them into unique furniture and furnishings (prices range from $19 to an enamel vase to $2,000 for a sofa). Aspects of the original material, including its history with previous owners, are preserved and there’s always a story to tell.

Benares

From cushions to candelabra, decorations to drinking decanters, necklaces to apparel, this new lifestyle store has them all. All products are meticulously put together by a team of independent designers, showcasing quality, artisanal products that are truly unique to the city, even if its original concept is drawn from the many bazaars found in India. Highlights include a pure silk wrap dress ($389) and a handcrafted leather suitcase bag with a digital photo print of Calcutta ($749) which are both sublime.

The Black Label

More bespoke loving at this high-ceilinged, wood paneled space in the heart of the Central Business District. Top draws here are off-the-rack jackets, hand-embroidered shirts as well as accessories including handmade shoes, premium ties and quality belts (from $189). But if you’re looking for something special, the diamond-studded cufflinks, which bear 0.3 to 0.5-carat diamonds and come in sterling silver, white, yellow or rose gold, are perfect for the festive season (from $232).

Carhartt WIP 

The fashion arm of this heritage American workwear brand makes its debut in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Currently on the rack is its male-centric Fall/Winter collection of T-shirts, shirts, pants, sweat and jackets, all evoking a no-fuss, utilitarian-cool aesthetic. $69 for T-shirts.

Jules & Jim 

Although it has since scaled down after its recent move from Club Street, the bespoke home interior store still has a few tricks up its sleeve. Owner Camille Besancon continues to stock some rare gems here, including a hand-painted porcelain tea set ($8,000). But if you’re looking for something more affordable, sofa cushions here are a steal at $50 each, featuring a myriad range of prints that are certainly très chic.

M Dreams

Previously sold at department, multi-label and online stores, collab-happy Brazilian brand Melissa recently unveiled its first standalone flagship boutique, which boasts stark white interiors that make the candy colors of the jelly shoes (from $75) pop. For those who love previous collections from Jason Wu and swimwear label Salina, good news: their latest designs for Melissa are in this season.

Roccoco Kent

This unpretentious vintage shop is filled to the brim with an eclectic range of items from clothes and accessories to furniture and collectibles. Goods stocked here are mostly rare, one-of-a-kind pieces from all around the world and are updated weekly. Highlights include dresses (from $49) and old-school typewriters (from $168).

Suit Select

With preppy still being all the rage now, grab a ready-made suit here for just $299. The spacious store allows shoppers to browse up to a hundred styles of shirts, pants, suits and accessories for both men and women through two main collections— the Black Line which boasts more contemporary aesthetics, while the Silver Line is a must for those looking for more classic pieces. Shirts and ties are also very affordably priced here (from $49).

two.o.ri

nana & bird’s Georgina Koh and Chiew Ling Tan have added another retail concept store under their stylish belts with this recent opening, which houses emerging labels like Bracher Emden (from $280) and Wnderkammer (from $199).


Short Stops: Shop at these pop-ups before they’re gone

Feist Heist x White Antler at Blackmarket No. 2

Launched in collaboration with local lifestyle brand White Antler, the store, which wraps end December, carries its limited edition home décor items ($39 upwards) and Feist Heist’s latest collection ($39 upwards).

ActuallyX

In store through January 31 are five brands that are making their debut in Singapore, including Commongoodsociety (from $69), Joyrich (from $70) and kapok TOOLS (from $21).

The Emporium

The multi-label concept store brings in new stock every week from these brands (from $20), as well as items from guest labels like KLutched (from $499) through end February.