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There's a growing trend in Ho Chi Minh City’s shopping scene of in-the-know locals and expats opening up enticing boutiques selling fair trade items, housewares, and very stylish locally made items, ranging from fashion to coffee cups.
Considered a traditional fine art of Vietnam, lacquerware is beautiful, long-lasting and—best of all for those with luggage weight restrictions—light. Most tourist shops and markets hawk the same kind of budget lacquerware. Higher quality items come at a price and are usually found in specialty shops. Some of the newer high-rise shopping complexes in downtown Ho Chi Minh City are home to high-end international brands, such as Versace, Jimmy Choo, and Prada. On the other end of the scale, markets offer a cheap and cheerful experience. They are generally open from sunrise until sunset, although some vendors just outside the markets stay open later.
By law, all transactions should be completed using dong, even if prices are quoted in U.S. dollars.
A tiny little T-shirt shop that opened in 2007 has grown into a chain of stores featuring its own Ginkgo-branded clothing and backpacks. Their graphic T-shirts are especially popular souvenirs as many of them highlight whimsical aspects of Vietnamese culture. There is also a store at 10 Le Loi.
This chic, capacious boutique stocks luxe gifts from an array of international brands like Rifle stationery, Izipizi sunglasses, and home accessories from design companies like Fritz Hansen and Hay. International travelers might be more drawn to the selection of stylish, made-in-Vietnam products from brands including Cochine, Avana, and Woo Cares. There are two larger locations at 24 Thao Dien (District 2) and in Crescent Mall (District 7).
This cute little shop has a selection of ready-made clothing in Western sizes and a fast and efficient tailoring service. The clothing is mostly women's but there is a small range of men's items, including ties, as well as a range of handbags, scarves, and jewelry.
Allow at least two days for tailoring, even though the shop assistants may tell you they can do a one-day turnaround—some extra fitting and final adjustments may make all the difference to your purchase.
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