Like many countries and cities in Southeast Asia, Singapore is known for its vibrant food scene. As one of the most expensive cities in the world, Singapore is also a mecca for shopping and nightlife. Several luxury Brands such as Louis Vuitton, tech brands such as Apple and entertainment venues such as Tao Group have opened flagship stores in the city-state.

While the pandemic has undoubtedly changed Singapore’s economic landscape, fashion brands, restaurants and other stores have all found a new lease of life now that travel and other forms of commerce can resume.

Below are some of the best-known local brands in Singapore that tourists love and keep coming back for.

1. Beyond the vines

Beyond The Vines’ popularity skyrocketed when they released their Dumpling Bag, a soft fabric tote available in different sizes. Following the popularity of its accessories, the brand also launched the Reversible Relaxed Bag, another carry-all tote that can be carried multiple ways.

The local brand recently transitioned from a ready-to-wear brand to a multidisciplinary design studio. The move means the brand now creates home, outdoor and tech items, like phone cases, in addition to its menswear and womenswear offerings.

In an interview with Singapore-based lifestyle magazine, Female, the brand’s founders revealed that the brand has always been a design studio at heart. According to the founders, husband and wife, their approach to design has always been problem-solving from a user-centric perspective.

2. Klarra

Klarra is home to contemporary womenswear; think clean lines and comfortable fits. The local brand creates comfortable and elegant ready-to-wear pieces, some of which can even be worn in the office. The brand has also launched a Studio line focusing only on high-end essentials like jeans, pants and dresses that can be worn timelessly. Besides women’s clothing, Klarra also creates everyday children’s clothing so parents can have fun mixing and matching outfits with their children.

Although primarily a fashion brand, Klarra also creates content with local influencers and celebrities on its blog, creating a sense of community.

3. By invitation only

Known for its minimalist pieces, By Invite Only is a jewelry store that produces affordable accessories for women.

By Invite Only has come a long way as one of Singapore’s best-known independent jewelry brands. The brand, founded almost 13 years ago, has an e-commerce platform and six physical stores spread across the country.

In an interview with luxury lifestyle magazine, The Peak, the brand’s founder, Trixie Khong, revealed that the brand was created because Khong wanted to earn some extra spending money. As an undergrad in college, Khong relied on her suppliers to show her the ropes of jewelry design.

4. Charles & Keith and Pedro

Perhaps one of the most beloved local brands, Charles and Keith, and its sister brand, Pedro, make accessories such as shoes, belts, sunglasses and bags for men and women.

Founded in 1996 by two brothers, Charles and Keith, it is one of Singapore’s oldest local brands. The brand’s popularity skyrocketed when celebrities such as Emily Ratajkowski, Maisie Williams and Priyanka Chopra began using their bags and shoes on the red carpet or out on the town. In 2011, 20% of the brand was bought by a famous French luxury house, Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy. The acquisition propelled Charles & Keith to fame, allowing it to conquer the Chinese market.

More recently, Charles and Keith were in the spotlight again. This time their Gabine Saddle Bag stole the show, selling out within days of its launch.

5. Love, Skipjack

One of Singapore’s most beloved womenswear brands, Love, Bonito designs and creates everyday ready-to-wear pieces. Each piece created by the brand is designed to meet the cut and proportion of Asian women.

Love, Bonito was founded by three friends, Rachel Lim, Viola Tan and Velda Tan. Currently, Lim leads the brand with CEO Dion Song. In a video posted on local site, Mothership, Song says the brand’s success is due to its decision to put Asian women at the heart of its design.

In June this year, the brand opened a flagship store in Hong Kong, expanding its territory. The momentous move came after the brand popped up in 2019, followed by a localized website launching in 2021.

6. In Good Company

In Good Company creates clever, contemporary items with interesting cuts and fabrics. Although at the higher end of the spectrum, each piece is unique and lasts a very long time. The brand’s signature range of jewelry also stands out and is loved by women. The brand has recently expanded into selling household items such as candles, planters and stationery. Their success and popularity has also led to the brand gaining fans across Asia.

With its strong presence of local designers, Singapore looks set to become Asia’s next big fashion hub.