Amidst the hustle and bustle of Malaysia’s busiest city, the notion that there is nothing to do here barely exists. One step in and you are already met with the warm balance that makes Kuala Lumpur what it is: sprawling shopping malls on one end and warungs serving up piping-hot street food on the other. Its myriad delicacies may be reason enough to plan a trip around, but the city has plenty cut out for those who would happily spend an afternoon shopping too.
Across Southeast Asia, Malaysia’s fashion industry has been steadily carving out its own space, with homegrown names gathering cult followings both within the country and outside. Ghostboy, Anaabu and Saoi are a few that might already be familiar, while newer labels continue to crop up and find their footing within the city. And what makes the shopping scene in Kuala Lumpur especially fun is how scattered the finds can be, with some sitting in multi-label spaces, while others are tucked into shophouses or even creative hubs. It makes the entire outing feel a little more adventurous, bringing you on a trip to truly experience the city’s ins and outs, with each neighbourhood offering a slightly different read on what the local scene looks like right now.
So if you are in the city with a little suitcase space to spare, consider this a starting point for your next sweep. Below, Vogue Singapore rounds up the stores to know for a glimpse into Kuala Lumpur’s busy sartorial landscape.
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Anaabu
Anaabu is no new name to Malaysia’s buzzing fashion scene. Over the years, the label has gathered a cult following for its distinct take on minimalist dressing, where the usual silhouettes are given a slight slant through their take on the traditional design elements and subtle details. There is a modest sensibility seen naturally through much of it too, catering to those who prefer more covered options.
For more information, visit Anaabu.
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Saoi
The girls already know this one. Saoi is something of a shoe haven, with its shelves filled with everything from cute heels to flats that can very easily become an everyday favourite. And it does not stop at footwear. Its ready-to-wear is equally worth a look, especially if your taste leans feminine, playful and just a little romantic.
For more information, visit Saoi.
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Hyphaus
For a heavier dose of streetwear, Hyphaus is your stop. The multi-label store brings a broad mix of independent names together, making it an easy place to discover what is bubbling across the local scene without hopping from shop to shop. Apart from the clothes, there is a solid accessories selection to dig through too, so expect bags, jewellery and smaller finds to make their way into the browse.
For more information, visit Hyphaus.
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Ghostboy
Another cult favourite, of course, Ghostboy deserves its own stop. One of the buzzier names to emerge from Malaysia’s contemporary sartorial scene, the label has built a recognisable world around its irreverent graphics and offbeat approach to streetwear. There is always a sense of fun running through what it does, whether that appears on a baby tee or something decidedly more experimental.
For more information, visit Ghostboy.
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Hiraware Studio
Hiraware Studio offers another take on minimalism, albeit one with a slightly unexpected twist. Clean silhouettes are interrupted by clever cuts and details that make even the simplest separates worth a second look. The store itself follows much the same language, with a pared-back interior that feels completely in step with their pieces.
For more information, visit Hiraware Studio.
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O For Others
Rex KL is already something of a hotspot in itself, so consider O For Others another reason to drop by. The multi-label concept store brings together independent names from the city and around the region, including popular Indonesian label Drunk Dad, alongside the likes of Kodangs and Bobbi. Beyond clothes, there are accessories, fragrance and smaller design finds to sift through too, making it the sort of place where a quick browse can very easily turn into a much longer stop.
For more information, visit O For Others.
