When we packed for this trip, we had a strategy in mind. All too many times we have left home with some room in the suitcase only to be fighting the zips to cram in that last sweater after a load of shopping for the trip home. This time we packed light, and brought only clothes that we don’t wear out any more. Any shopping done throughout our travels can slowly replace the clothes we have on us, and also finally get rid of the stray items in our wardrobes that we never got round to binning.
Singapore is known for its great shopping to suit every style and budget. Bugis is an area famed for its trendy stores which attract young fashionistas, perfect for the budget traveller. Bugis Street, located right outside Bugis MRT Station, is home to a three-storey shopping complex crammed with shops selling clothes of fair quality. Don’t expect branded products here – these shops likely source their goods in bulk from wholesalers in China, resulting in a huge variety at great prices.
Tips for Shopping Bugis
While there are clothes on the ground floor of the Bugis Street Complex, a majority of the stores are food vendors. For the main shopping complex, find the escalator up to the higher floors. Beware! There are so many stores without a clear floor plan that it’s very easy to get lost.
Because of the number of stores available, take a wander around before making any purchases. Some shops sell the same item of clothing for cheaper, though the differences are likely marginal. Each shop stocks different styles of clothes, so clothes from street styles to simple casual are easy to find.
Many shops do not allow shoppers to try on items, and do not accept returns or give refunds. Many of the items are also free size, and will fit the average Asian body type. This may mean that shoppers at the lower or higher end of the height or weight scale may have a little more difficulty in finding clothes that fit, though there are stores which cater to different body types if you can find your way around.
Pants are sometimes problematic if you can’t try them on, but a good tip is to wrap the waistband around your neck. If the ends meet the pants are said to be your size, but this needs some trial and error.
Men’s clothes are also available in Bugis, though they are closer to the trends of the Asian market. Don’t expect to find ties and dress shirts – after all, this is budget shopping!
The top floor has many nail salons. If you need a break from shopping, a new manicure will always do the trick.
The Challenge
We walked in with three rules:
1. Buy at least two items of clothing which can be worn to form a cohesive outfit.
2. Buy at least one accessory, preferably to match said outfit.
3. Stay within a pre-determined budget of SG$50 (US$37).
These are the results!
NOMS
White top + frock: $30
Shoes: $18 17
Total: SG$47
JOS
White collared shirt: $12 10
Black culottes: $12 10
Hair tie: $2
Yellow top: $15
Shorts: 2 for $10
Total: SG$47
There were a tonne of clothes we’d both have liked. If you can find clothes to fit your size, it is easy to revamp a wardrobe without too much money. It’s definitely a spot for younger shoppers but if you have the time and cash to spare, Bugis Street is a great place to spend a day.
Bugis Street
3 New Bugis Street, Singapore 188867
11am-10pm (Individual shops vary.)
bugisstreet.com.sg
