4 min read
If you’re looking to own a piece of Peranakan heritage, here are 6 thoughtfully selected locations where fashion meets tradition—each one offering unique pieces that reflect the beauty and spirit of Peranakan culture.
Rumah Kim Choo
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Katong and established over 70 years ago, Rumah Kim Choo is a beloved heritage shop offering a stunning selection of traditional kebayas, batik sarongs, and beaded slippers, all crafted using time-honoured techniques. Now managed by Raymond Wong, whose paternal grandmother, Nyonya Lee Kim Choo, founded the shop, it continues to preserve and celebrate Peranakan fashion.
Raymond, an expert in beadwork and embroidery, designed the kebayas featured in the popular Emerald Hill drama series, further showcasing his mastery of traditional Peranakan craftsmanship. Rumah Kim Choo also offers a Peranakan Kebaya Rental Experience, where visitors can try on kebayas and deepen their connection with Peranakan culture.
📍 111 East Coast Road, Singapore 428801
📞 Tel: +65 6741 2125
Photo Credit: District Sixtyfive
Ratianah
A fusion of old and new, Ratianah offers a contemporary twist on traditional Peranakan fashion. Their beautifully designed kebayas, made from a blend of luxurious fabrics and adorned with intricate beadwork, reflect both timeless beauty and modern sensibilities. Ratianah’s pieces bridge generations, offering something for both younger and older generations of Peranakans, making them the perfect blend of heritage and style.
📍 23 Bussorah St, Singapore 199441
📞 Tel: +65 6392 0323
Photo Credit: CNA Lifestyle
Kiah's Gallery
Founded by Kiah, a passionate advocate for the preservation of traditional batik, Kiah’s Gallery offers a stunning range of batik sarongs, clothing, and accessories. Each piece is handcrafted with the utmost care, paying homage to the intricate designs and vibrant colours that are the hallmark of Peranakan style.
The atmosphere at Kiah’s is one of deep respect for the ancient art of batik, with every pattern and dye chosen to carry the weight of history. Whether you are a batik collector or a newcomer to this beautiful art form, Kiah’s Gallery offers a curated selection that tells the story of Peranakan culture through fabric.
📍 71 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198496
📞 Tel: +65 6293 8367
Photo Credit: Roots.sg
Wellie Batik Fashions
Wellie Batik Fashions reimagines traditional Peranakan designs with a bold, contemporary twist. Their pieces, ranging from clothing to accessories, offer a sophisticated balance of heritage and modern style. With a focus on creative innovation, Wellie Batik Fashions infuses classic batik patterns with fresh, fashionable elements, making it ideal for those who would like to honour their cultural roots while embracing a more contemporary look.
📍 211 Holland Avenue, Holland Rd, Shopping Ctr, #03-06, Singapore 278967
📞 Tel: +65 9171 5662
Photo Credit: Singapore Kindness Movement - The Pride
Interpax Enterprises
For those in search of traditional Peranakan footwear, Interpax Enterprises is the ultimate destination. Specialising in beautifully handcrafted beaded slippers, or kasut manek, the shop offers a stunning selection that embodies the essence of authentic Peranakan fashion. Each pair features intricate designs, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
With a strong emphasis on quality and tradition, Interpax ensures that every pair of slippers is crafted with care, preserving the beauty and cultural significance of this iconic Peranakan accessory.
📍 211 Holland Ave, #03-20, Singapore 278967
📞 Tel: +65 6468 1558
Photo Credit: Interpax Enterprises Facebook page
The Peranakan Museum Gift Shop
For a more casual browse and an introduction to Peranakan-inspired fashion, the Peranakan Museum Gift Shop is a perfect place to start. It offers a thoughtfully curated selection of clothing and accessories, including batik scarves, kebaya-inspired tops, and jewellery, that reflect the culture’s rich history and artistry. It’s a delightful way to explore the beauty of Peranakan fashion without the need for a bespoke piece.
📍 39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941
📞 Tel: +65 6332 7591
Photo Credit: Image courtesy of Choo Yut Shing, via Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0
These stores and ateliers are more than just shopping destinations—they are spaces where heritage, culture, and artistry come together. Whether you’re seeking a traditional kebaya, a modern take on batik, or handcrafted accessories that showcase the skill of Peranakan artisans, each piece offers a deeper connection to a culture that continues to thrive. By supporting these artisans and embracing their creations, you're not only adding timeless beauty to your collection but also preserving and celebrating the vibrant legacy of the Peranakan community.
Find out more about Shermay's top picks for Peranakan getaways and culinary delights in our other article here.
