Designer discounts online
If the rush of the Great Singapore Sale - on until July 24 - isn't your scene, JASSMIN PETER reveals a less hectic method of retail therapy and the online sites now offering unbeatable "member" discounts all year round.
Strut Online
Moving beyond traditional shopping, Strut Online makes fashion more fun and creative by giving you the freedom to become your own designer. Its debut collection is bright, chic, edgy and feminine with a dash of punk and features Grecian-inspired draped dresses, toga rompers and sexy sailor dresses. Maintain your individuality by using Strut's customisation platter to individually tailor your choices with strategically placed tassels, punk safety pins, chains, buttons and zippers. www.strut-online.com
Modish Wardrobe offers limited edition collections of chic and stylish clothes, bags and jewellery inspired by runway debuts in Milan, London and New York. Expand your wardrobe with jersey silk dresses, high-waisted skirts and dazzling cocktail gowns. Sophisticated yet formal, each piece is cut to flatter distinctive body types. Some designs make a trendy alternative to standard office wear, yet are versatile enough to take you from the office to a night out.
As each item is available in just a few sizes the collections are constantly updated - so you know what you're wearing is an exclusive. While the majority of its business is online, Modish Wardrobe also provides private viewings by appointment. Some items are also available at Public, 16A Haji Lane. www.modishwardrobe.com
Not In The malls
As the name suggests, Not In The Malls is an online marketplace featuring the wares of independent individuals and small companies that design, create, source and sell unique and charming products otherwise unavailable at mainstream retail outlets. While the site doesn't lure with discounted prices, it does capture interest with one-of-a-kind merchandise. Extensive offerings ensure there's something for everyone: ladies, men, babies and children - even pets! Expect to find fashion items, organic products, stationery, maternity collections, homeware and travel accessories. www.notinthemalls.com
Groupon Singapore
Groupon Singapore negotiates incredible discounts of up to 90 percent with local merchants, to offer a new discounted experience every day. Expect discounts on meals, drinks, exclusive fashion brands, massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, hair treatments and Brazillian waxing. Groupon also negotiates unbeatable discounts on museum tickets, musical events and travel specials to Japan, Krabi, Phuket, Malaysia and Hong Kong.Every day a "Daily Special" is emailed to you and you're given a specific timeline to purchase your deal. Once the minimum number of purchases is achieved, the deal becomes active and you'll receive confirmation. Gift certificates are also available. www.groupon.sg
Luxury @ a discount is missing
Sign up for free membership at these online shopping clubs, offering coveted luxury brands for much less.
Haute Avenue sells luxury bags at up to 70 percent off. Find your favourite brands including Coach, Kate Spade, Marc by Marc Jacobs and Tod's. Don't be scared of imitations - the owners buy direct. Invite a friend to join and you'll be rewarded with a one percent credit every time your friend makes a purchase. Haute Avenue also organises ad-hoc events, such as warehouse sales. www.hauteavenue.com
Brandsfever showcases international fashion brands and lifestyle products at up to 70 percent off retail prices every day. Find high-end brands such as Coach and Burberry and popular items from Nine West, Motorola and Lonsdale. Because Brandsfever works hand-in-hand with brand partners and authorised local distributors, the site guarantees 100 percent authenticity. Introduce a friend and receive a $10 store credit upon their first purchase. www.brandsfever.com
Reebonz teams up with luxury brands such as Gucci, Miu Miu, Givenchy, Balenciaga and Prada Men to sell boutique overstock at up to 80 percent off. A Home section helps you create a stylish haven with discounted designer home décor and Reebonz City is your discounted-ticket to the best and most exclusive lifestyle experiences, services, extraordinary events and luxury vacation deals. www.reebonz.com
SingSale has the distinct advantage of joining its similar sales sites in Australia and beyond to offer labels, such as Bonds and Ed Hardy, not frequently seen in Singapore at impressive discounts of up to 80 percent. Online sale periods often last seven days, with items only shipped up to 30 days after the sale closes. As long as you're not in urgent need of your purchase, you can still enjoy a bargain. www.singsale.com.sg
The FINDER & FOXYSALES SPECIAL OFFER Enjoy $10 off all purchases by entering promocode FINDER6 during checkout. Valid until June 30. www.foxysales.com
Posted on Jun 2011
