If you’ve been to Boutique Fairs before, you’ll know that feeling of shoppers’ delight as you walk into the buzzing F1 Pit Building. And with Christmas around the corner, this fair is a holiday gifting paradise. Here you can browse hundreds of exclusive launches from over 300 independent brands and designers – without the hectic vibe found on Orchard Road! So, if you’re like me and still looking for some Christmas present ideas, read on for details of the unique gifts at this one-stop destination. Plus, there’s always time to make a cheeky purchase for yourself too!
The Boutique Fairs Singapore Gifting Edition
As arguably the most popular independent shopping event in Singapore, the November Gifting Edition is not one to miss. Why? Because two floors of the F1 Pit Building turn into a Christmas shopper’s dream come true!
This year, there are 80 newcomers among the selection of 300 independent brands, including fashion and accessories, home décor, kids’ toys and foodie finds.
Unlimited entry for three days!
Every time I go to Boutiques, I do a full lap of the first section before settling in and slowly delving into the array of brands. Luckily, with unlimited entry for three days on one $5 ticket, there’s no pressure to rush through each floor and make the fair into a shopping marathon. Instead, you can take breaks and go in and out as you please.
This is super helpful if you bring along the family – and, as a cherry on top, there’s free entry for children under 12 and dedicated play areas on level three for them too. Once the kids get a bit wriggly, you can head out for a break or visit on another day. Better yet, find out what everyone liked at the fair and come back later to make some secret purchases!
Christmas present ideas for every type of person
I think we all have that person in our lives who is impossible to shop for. The best way to find unique gifts for them is to discover new stores and under-the-radar labels. At Boutiques, you can be the first to shop over 200 exclusive launches from brands that don’t have a physical shop. Not only can you get a glimpse of these products in person and even give them a try, there’s also a good chance you’ll tick off most if not all of your Christmas shopping list!
To give you some Christmas present ideas before you visit the fair, here are seven brands making their debut at Boutique Fairs this year. And we’ve matched them with the type of person their products would be perfect for.
#1 For the ethical fashionista
As sustainable fashion continues to take off, clothing store Apollonia is sure to be a hit for anyone fashion-forward or eco-interested. The clothing is breezy, imaginative and, most importantly, all about giving back. The pieces use only 100% regenerative cotton and organic dyes created in a small workshop in Vietnam and a women-run shelter in Delhi. The brand also donates 10% of overall profits to the shelter, which teaches women vocational skills and provides on-site schooling for their children.
Exclusive launch: Kaftans with a new orchid print and a collection of peacock embroidery, a symbol of hope and strength in India.
#2 Collections for every shape and size
In Singapore, I often find it a challenge to find clothing that really fits my body shape and is something I actually like! So I’m excited to see Hong Kong-based label Beam Bold make its Singapore debut with vibrant prints inspired by the colours of the Caribbean islands. This is a size-inclusive brand, so the options range from 3XS to 3XL, with four available lengths and also size 2 to 12 for girls. They use 1005 natural fibres and include seam allowances and adjustable elastic, so you can adjust their pieces for long-term use.
Exclusive launch: A whole new collection made to complement their core pieces.
#3 To inspire home cooks and vegan friends
Jungle Kitchen is a tropical vegan brand celebrating the best tropical ingredients, techniques and recipes in ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook collections. Their unique gifts are perfect for that person who loves to experiment in the kitchen. Check out the coconut sambal and jackfruit seed curries for starters. Moreover, this female-owned-and-run business ensures its products are sustainable; they also come in zero-plastic packaging. Oh, and they’re delicious!
Exclusive launch: Smoked mangosteens, curried pineapples, sea grapes and coconut bacon.
#4 For those who thrive on tranquillity
This brand is for a person whose home is a haven of peace and contentment. Eden Living is a homeware and lifestyle label that works with artists around the world to create pieces that provide a sense of calm at home. These unique gifts include beautifully shaped vases, lamps and homewares.
Exclusive launch: New collection of light and home décor made by South Korean artists and exclusive to the Singapore market.
#5 Ideal gifts for busy little hands and busier parents
Want to create a space for your little ones to explore, create and play? That’s the idea behind That’s Neat. These gifts and stocking-stuffers are made to spark kids’ imaginations while also reducing any mess involved! Browse the puzzles, toys and the super popular Neat Sand, which uses a beeswax formula so the sand doesn’t fall apart!
Exclusive launch: Sand-proof microfibre towels, made from recycled post-consumer waste, for sand-free comfort at the beach.
#6 Meaningful and imaginative Christmas present ideas
ART:DIS Studio is an affiliate enterprise and a non-profit organisation that champions opportunities for persons with disabilities in the arts. They create quality lifestyle products and corporate gifts, made by artists with disabilities. Each item purchased helps build the artists’ financial independence and connection to the community.
Exclusive launch: A whole new range of artworks on products and Christmas-exclusive ceramics.
#7 Something for the audiophile
Speakers don’t have to be boring! At Decibelist, the handcrafted music tech can bring the same cool vibes as your tunes. Homegrown in Singapore, the company specialises in one-of-kind smart wireless music streaming speakers that are tailor-made to suit each owner.
Exclusive launch: Art Frame Speakers – wall-mountable speakers that can blend seamlessly into gallery walls.
Tips for having the best experience at Boutiques
Refuel while you hit the shops!
Christmas shopping is an exhausting pursuit, so it’s not long before I need a coffee to keep me going, or even a full refuel. Boutiques has dedicated cafés so you can have a seat, enjoy light bites and look out at the sparkling waters of Marina Bay. It’s even better when you shop with friends and take a break to catch up and discuss potential purchases.
Meet designers and find new brands
Boutique Fairs is an opportunity to discover up-and-coming brands and chat with the designers to help you find the right fit. With some brands, you can even discuss customising an item with the designer themselves!
Before the event, get a glimpse at all 300 designers and brands taking part in the fair by viewing the floorplan. This can also help you prioritise which of the seven rooms you’d like to start with, and make sure you don’t accidentally miss your favourite brands!
Make the most of the free shuttle
Boutiques provides free shuttles between Millenia Walk and the F1 Pit Building, so you can get there and back hassle-free. Very handy when you’re loaded up with bags of goodies!
The Boutique Fairs Gifting Edition 2023 details
When: Friday, 17 November, and Saturday, 18 November 2023 from 10am to 8pm, and Sunday, 19 November 2023 from 10am to 6pm.
Where: F1 Pit Building
Cost: Unlimited entry for three days of shopping for just $5, kids under 12 free! Get tickets here.
Parking: Public parking is available at Millenia Walk.
Find out more about the brands behind these Christmas present ideas and unique gifts here!
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