Shopping options in Singapore are aplenty, but none offer an experience as unique as that of Bugis Street. It’s somewhat a cross between a shopping mall and traditional pasar malam; Buzzing from day to night, the fully sheltered, partially air-conditioned shopping street houses a hodgepodge of street food, clothing, claw machines, and even nail and tattoo parlours. It's a popular haunt for youngsters chasing trends on a budget, yet also a hotspot for tourists to try local street eats and grab souvenirs all in one place.
Bugis Street has also gained a rep for wallet-friendly fashion and tech accessories since the early 2000s. While this still holds true today, much has evolved over the years, especially with a recent revamp. Here are some must-visit stores within the three-storey enclave, from well-loved mainstays to the new and exciting.
Those who frequented Bugis Street during their teenage days would be glad to know that OG costume jewellery stores Fresh Profusion (#02-145) and Fairytale (#02-151) are still going strong with affordable earrings priced at less than $5. Pick from a range of character-themed pieces, food-inspired ones, or more elegant rhinestone-studded items. They also sell bracelets, necklaces, and the like. For something with a bit of punk rock attitude, check out Silver Trade (#02-51 to 52, #02-155 to 156) nearby, with 925 silver body jewellery, leatherette cuff bracelets, and even piercing services.
Channel your inner K-pop star with Korean-style hair accessories from My Love (#01-143 to 146, #02-11 to 14) – think everything from claw clips to headbands and hair ties adorned with coquette-core bows, as well as headwear like bucket hats and preppy trucker caps. Get suave sunglasses for your next beach hang at Pop Queen (#02-29 to 30, #02-38 to 39, #02-46), along with stylish spectacle frames and chains. For a unisex pool of belts, arm candy, and quirky charms for your Crocs, head straight to K Street (#01-15).
Bugis Street is always on the latest fashion trends – the puffer bag craze is one of them. Snag these and more at a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere at stores like Boutique Accessories (#02-134) and CRPH (#01-221), which also have bag swag like charms and twillies – those mini scarves used to jazz up bag handles for a more refined look.
While you’re at it, up your tech game with small everyday gadgets like charging cables, cable protectors, and earphones – stores like AWEI (#01-217 to 220), Kyo (#01-75, #01-225 to 226, #02-235), Mobiletech Obera (#01-16 to 17, #01-27 to 29), and M&Y (#01-30 to 31) are your go-tos for that. And to dress up your phone in a way that shows off your personality, take your pick from their plethora of beaded phone straps, plus smartphone cases ranging from minimalist to floral and cartoon-inspired.
These are merely a glimpse of the hundreds of stores that await at Bugis Street. Head down to explore it yourself for the full experience – it’ll be hard not to walk out with arms full of loot. Find out more here.