Shopping in Singapore: Uniqlo

Being of the cheap, frugal variety, I get excited every time I think I get a deal. I've been in Singapore just over a month (yay!) and one of the things I've realized is that my love of clearance rack shopping probably isn't going to be as easily fulfilled here. So, every time I find a store I really like, I'll try to do a little blog about it (mainly for the benefit of my shopping-obsessed sisters).

Uniqlo is a Japanese clothing store - they have shops in a few other countries, including one in Manhattan. It reminds me A LOT of Old Navy: the quality is okay, and most of the clothes are casual with a small selection of dress clothes, sports outfits, business appropriate wear, and sleepwear. There are also a lot of basics like t-shirts and tanks in a solid color range. I only looked through the ladies' section; there's a large men's area as well and they seem to have about the same selection.

Prices are affordable and there are a lot of sales. The selection seems to get changed a lot, so while I haven't found a clearance section, things are "on sale" for as low as S$10.

Sizes range from S to XL, but they run small. I wear a S/M in Old Navy's clothes, but a M/L here. I didn't try on any jeans so I can't tell you how those run.

Uniqlo also provided me with my first fitting room experience in Singapore: you'll have to queue up (get in a line) and an attendant will take everything off the hangers for you and find you a cubicle. You'll be required to leave your shoes outside the cubicle. When you're done, the attendant will take anything you don't want.

The best part?

If you're short like me, and want your pants hemmed, Uniqlo does it for FREE (unless you buy something under a certain price; then it's S$5).

If you want your bottoms altered/hemmed:

1.) While in the dressing room, ask an attendant to come over. They'll help you decide on the length and mark the garment.

2.) Take all of your things to the check-out counter. Make sure to mention which items need to be altered. They'll staple a tag to the garment and have you provide your name and phone number.

3.) Take the item that needs to be altered to the alteration counter. It's probably right near the dressing room. They'll let you know what time you need to return for it.

4.) Leave. Alterations usually take between 2-4 hours. Best make Uniqlo your FIRST shopping stop of the day.

5.) Return at the appointed time and retrieve your garment. You'll have to show your receipt as proof of purchase. You can try it on again there to make sure the alteration is suitable.

That's all!