We asked Laila Lu, founder of hip fashion blog Rock the Trend, about her favourite places to shop and find inspiration in Tiong Bahru.
In recent years there has been much hype about the Tiong Bahru estates, with hipster cafes and creative hotspots popping up one after another. Well, it’s right nearby my ‘hood and I’ve discovered a few hidden and relatively new places. From multi-label boutiques to studios and weekend workshops, here’s my pick of Tiong Bahru hot spots to check out.
Bhutan Shop (closed)
You could say that Yong Siak is where it all started, when Booksactually moved in to this quaint quiet lane tucked in the old estate, drawing much attention to the hood and shining the spotlight on Tiong Bahru. Bhutan shop is a little heaven away from the bustling streets, offering organic and handmade products, destination inspired unique items from Bhutan and elsewhere. A must-go if you are looking for a little bit of zen.
Bhutan Shop, 1 Yong Siak Street, p: +65 6236 0750. Open from Mon-Sun 10am – 7pm.
Clothes Curator
Right above hip café The Dispensary, is a new vintage store selling quirky items sourced from all over the world. Like the name suggests, the owners of Clothes Curator carefully and thoughtfully select all the pieces in the collection. It’s like walking into somebody’s wardrobe!
Clothes Curator, 69 Tiong Bahru Road (above The Dispensary Cafe), p: +65 6438 9622. Open daily except Wednesdays 11:30am – 7.30pm.
Nana & Bird (moved to Scotts Square, #03-03)
Having moved into a bigger and more prominent space, Nana & Bird’s Eng Hoon location is every shopper’s dream. With a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of natural light, you are instantly drawn to all the fashion and lifestyle products, which are sourced from all over the world and curated by co-founders, best friends and shopaholics Georgina Koh and Tan Chiew Ling.
Nana & Bird, 59 Eng Hoon Street Singapore 160059, p: +65 9117 0430. Open from Tues-Fri 12pm-7pm, Sat-Sun and PH 11pm-7pm.
Bloesem Creative Space
Founded by Dutch-born, Singapore-based Irene Hoofs, Bloesem is her own personal project that has recently turned into a brick-and-mortar store selling lifestyle and design products from local and international labels. The store also doubles as a creative studio that allows her to conduct classes such as styling and calligraphy.
Bloesem Creative Space, 59 Eng Hoon Street, Singapore 160059. Open from Mon-Sun 9am-6pm, Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 12pm-5pm.
The French Bookshop
Another independent bookstore in the hood that is worth a visit is The French Bookshop. If you’ve been to Paris, you will definitely remember all the cosy little bookstores in the city. Here, you might just get the same vibe. The shop sells old and new French books and even CDs and DVDs. Even if you don’t’ know French, you can simply browse through the selection or buy something as a gift to be transported straight back to the Rive Gauche!
The French Bookshop, 55 Tiong Bahru Road Singapore 160055. Open from Tues-Sat 11am-6pm. Sundays 11am-3pm. Closed Mondays.
Strangelets
There’re no strange things at Strangelets. Probably one of the best places to shop for gifts, this little shop is packed with unique and interesting items. Selling everything from homewares to jewellery to stationery, it’s not only a place to shop but also be inspired by the crafts and design.
Strangelets, 7 Yong Siak Street Singapore 168644, p: +65 6222 1456. Open from Mon-Fri 11am-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-8pm.
Thanks Laila!
All images taken by Suasti Lye of Suasti Lye Photography & Design.