If you are in Vietnam and your shopping mode is activated, my golden advice to you is DON’T SHOP IN SHOPPING MALLS BECAUSE IT’S BORING. You have probably seen enough of ZARA, Mango, H&M, and so on in your life. It’s time to explore the local favorites. For some reason, traveling and shopping always goes hand in hand. When I arrive in a new destination, besides visiting the tourist attractions and exploring some off-the-beaten-track places, I also love checking out cool shops where the locals usually do the shopping. Sometimes I buy small gifts for my family and friends or just spend hours window shopping. Forget about the weekend market hosted in a stadium or the cool shops hidden in old apartments in Saigon, the shopping picture is different in the capital of Vietnam.
Dear other shopaholic folks, in this article, let me introduce you to the shopping paradises in Hanoi with a list of where to shop for clothes and souvenirs.
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Shopping for Fashion in Hanoi
One thing you will notice when wandering around Hanoi is that people operate their similar businesses in the same area. For example, the shops on Hang Chieu (mattress street) only sell mattresses, Hang Da (leather street) only has leather goods. There are even lantern streets! Such a layout makes it easier for the newbie (like me) to find the things I need. From cheap clothing to luxury, here are four shopping areas you should check out:
Cau Giay Street – The Hipster Shopping Street
Walk this street on a peaceful afternoon. When I do, I can’t take my eyes off the beautiful windows of many fashion stores shoulder to shoulder along the road. According to my local friend, the day I realize I want to open a clothing store (maybe) in Hanoi, the first place to pop into my head will be Cau Giay street. Here you can find many small and big Vietnamese local fashion brands. Most of the items are made in Vietnam, which is good quality and priced reasonably. Moreover, the shop owners are quick at catching the world trends. Therefore, the shops in Cau Giay street always have modern clothing for students and office hipsters.
Here are some notable stores:
Germe Shop
This shop is loved by many young adults in Hanoi. From a girly skater dress to a sexy bodycon for the party girls, you can find it all in one place. Most importantly, several times a year, they have a sale of up to 50% off. Does this offer tempt you? Besides the store on Cau Giay street, Germe Shop also has seven more stores in other locations.
Information:
- Address: 237 Cau Giay, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 096 115 21 21
- Business hours: 9 AM – 9 PM
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/germe.shop/
- Price range: 150,000 – 300,000 VND
In Here
If you are wandering around Cau Giay street, your eyes will stop and stare at the lovely window of In Here store. Besides clothing, In Here also provides a wide range of accessories such as bags, scarfs, and especially boots, shoes, and sneakers.
Information:
- Address: 268 Cau Giay, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 093 605 45 85
- Business hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Facebook: In Here Shop
- Price range: 50,000 – 300,000 VND
Cobi Shop
Many young adults in Vietnam are influenced by Korean styles and Cobi Shop is just one example. If you are looking for a cute shirt or a lovely dress that is going to turn you into a K-pop star, Cobi is surely the right one.
- Address: 321 Cau Giay, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 024 6686 4931
- Business hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Facebook: Corbi Shop
- Price range: 150,000 – 200,000 VND
Up to Second – Shop Online
Compared to the other shops above, Up to Second is a little more upscale. All of the clothing on the racks here are designed by a local designer. The slogan of Up to Second is “Simple to be different.” You will find the attire elegant and chic in style. The price is also acceptable and sometimes on special occasion, they also offer good deals like same price sale, sales up to 50-70% off, and many more.
Don’t forget to check out their Facebook page for updated sale promotions.
Information:
- Address: 181 Cau Giay, Ha Noi
- Phone number: (024) 37676488
- Business hours:
- Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/uptoseconds/
- Price range: 9 AM – 10:30 PM
Kim Ma Street – The Boutique Street
The fashion boutiques on Kim Ma street are a little more luxury than those on Cau Giay street. From the style to the price, clothing displayed here is fancy. The cheapest price for a dress will cost you at least 100 USD! Therefore, potential and loyal customers are those who have a stable income, or maybe you just want to splurge on the perfect dress for the perfect occasion. Since this street is known as “the capital of designer clothing,” you can easily find many brands from the local designers that have a big reputation not only in Hanoi but also in Saigon and other cities. Here are some shops you should stop by:
Amy Store
If you are the one who looks at the elegant dress of classy modern royalty like princess Kate Middleton and fall in love with the style, Amy Store is where you can find your dream dress. Many celebrities of Vietnam are the loyal customers of Amy Store and lace is the favorite material of the designer because it’s so versatile.
From a sweet dress for the cute girls to a sexy dress for the “IT” girls, Amy has it all. If your suitcase still has room for one more item, then pay a visit to Amy and gift yourself a stunning dress because you deserve it after all that traveling.
- Address: 201, 241, 149 Kim Ma, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 097 256 84 73
- Business hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/amystore.official/
- Price range: 1,000,000 – 3,000,000 VND
Chats
Using clothing to design an image of the modern woman, the Chats’ ladies are those who have a simple yet classy style. Here at Chats, you can find a delicate embroidered white shirt, a romantic silk dress, an elegant tweed jacket, or a modern ao dai. This shop is where team girl boss usually hangs out to shop ‘till they drop.
Information:
- Address: 153 Kim Ma, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 0169 678 8768
- Business hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chatsbycdam/
- Price range: 700,000 – 2,000,000 VND
Huong Boutique
Do you have a gentle style of classic taste? If you do, or you’re looking to change your wardrobe, don’t miss shopping at Huong Boutique. The cocktail dresses at this shop are courtly and dreamy. In different seasons, Huong Boutique will release a limited edition collection, all of the items run out of stock in a very short time after the announcement so get there early. This shop also has a line of basic items for young professionals. If you are a fan of chiffon fabric and lace, well girls, you know where to go.
Information:
- Address: 145 – 147 Kim Ma, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 02437264886 – 0903240487
- Business hours: 9 AM – 9:30 PM
- Facebook: Huong Boutique
- Price range:
Basic line: Start from 300,000 – 1,000,000 VND
Lux line: 1,100,000 – 3,000,000 VND
Quan Thanh Street – The Shopping Paradise for Men’s Clothing
The fashionista doesn’t have to feel jealous of the ladies in Hanoi, there is a whole clothing street dedicated to you. Stroll along Quan Thanh street and you will see countless numbers of shops dedicated to male clothing and accessories. You can wear casual, unisex, or formal style, all the items you need are displayed somewhere on the shelves of a store on this street. Let’s take a look at some good ones:
Banana Shop
It’s too bad that you can’t find any banana shirts at Banana Shop. This store sells elegant clothing even though Banana is in its name. It’s really hard to leave this shop without buying at least one item to add to your clothing collection. So be wary! Gentleman can expect to find a perfect suit, a cool leather or denim jacket, or exquisite sweaters.
Information:
- Address: 172 Quan Thanh, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 097 234 7889
- Business hours: 9:30 AM – 10 PM
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bananahomme/
Armand
This is a club for the stylish gentleman, where you can find all kinds of fashion items for a great set or outfit. Whether you want to look for statement printed t-shirts, plaid shirts, ripped jeans jogger pants, and even shoes, you can always find something you need at Armand. Don’t hesitate to stop by this store when it comes to shopping for male clothing.
Information:
- Address: 33 Quan Thanh, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 094 848 22 22
- Business hours: 9:00 AM – 10 PM
- Facebook: Armand
Chuot Xam
It’s the creativity in every design that makes Chuot Xam stand out from other shops. At first glance, you will see the clothing here is a little colorful, and more suitable for those who fancy the K-pop style. Some items you can find are color-block jackets, oversized sweaters, box sweatshirts, etc., Want to change your style into a playful one? Chuot Xam is a great place for you!
Information:
- Address: 96 Quan Thanh, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 097 222 29 02
- Business hours: 9:30 AM – 10 PM
- Facebook: Chuot Xam
Youth by 1983 – PAUL THOMAS
Youth impresses you with its minimalism shop decor. The way each piece of clothing is displayed on the racks will give you the feeling that the store measures every inch of the space to make it look perfect. At Youth, you won’t be able to find anything that is too bold in terms of color as the monochrome of black and white are the featured colors of this fashion store. The symbol of a “Youth guy” is a minimalist who has a good taste in fashion.
Information:
- Address: Kios No. 2-3-4 Tower B, Song Hong building, lane 165 Thai Ha (opposite cafe LAMENSA), Hanoi
- Phone number: 098 5124283
- Business hours: 9:00 AM – 10 PM
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YOUTHby1983/
Dinh Liet – Ta Hien Street
Are you looking for some casual MADE IN VIETNAM items? Dinh Liet and Ta Hien Street in the Old Quarter is your heaven. There you can find many factory clothing brand names such as The North Face, Zara, Mango, etc.,. But hey, be mindful; the clothes are not always authentic. Check the signs carefully. Otherwise, if you just don’t care about the fakeness of the jacket, then you should bargain for what you want to purchase. Normally I will cut the originally stated price in half. If it doesn’t work, you can raise your quoted price up to 30-20% of the original price. My best advice is simply knowing what you want to pay for an item and don’t settle for more.
Shopping in Dong Xuan Market
“On my first time arriving in Hanoi, Vietnam, I went to Dong Xuan market and I was very impressed with how everything is organized and how much stuff they had. Well, I was so overwhelmed that I couldn’t make up my mind about what I wanted to buy. So what I did was walk around to enjoy the authentic Vietnam experience and had a really good bun cha. This is what Markus told me when I asked him about one of his favorite moments in Vietnam upon arrival and I think it does a pretty good job at capturing the experience. The market is associated with the lifeblood of the Vietnamese. We go there to buy everything from fresh food to appliances and clothing.
Dong Xuan Market is located in the French Old Quarter. Everything from clothes to souvenirs comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, so always look around before you make a purchase. The price is also reasonable compared to other tourist markets. If you buy things in bulk, it can be much cheaper than retailing. In the evening, there is also a night market where you can stroll around scanning the beautiful products, buy some gifts to bring home while enjoying the atmosphere of Hanoi by night. For more info on Hanoi’s nightlife, click here.
Pro Tips:
- The market is very crowded so you should keep your eyes on your belongings.
- The best time to go shopping is in the afternoon because someone has probably bought something in the shop. Otherwise, when you bargain for your stuff, the seller may guilt trip you into buying something. This can apply to shopping in other places, as well.
- Most of the goods in Dong Xuan market are sold in bulk so it will be a bit tricky if you want to shop for retail goods. Ideally, when you want something, ask to buy with your friends or wait for the night market. If you are in luck, you could find the thing you like there.
Shopping for Souvenirs in Hanoi
Besides the markets, the night market or the shops in the Old Quarter, you can also check for some awesome local crafts at these three fabulous stores:
VUI Studio Café
Behind the main gate of Vui Studio is a cool space of cement walls and wooden furniture. The wonderful lighting system makes the atmosphere of this place feel cozy. I was impressed with this concept store the moment I set foot inside. First, the pleasant smell of aromatic oils hits you and second, the cute home goods and apparels capture your attention and make you wonder about suitcase space.
There are two spaces that make up the Vui Studio. On the ground floor, there is a small coffee shop decorated with many creative crafts made by Vui or collaborative products with other brands. I recommend ordering a cup of peach tea to enjoy the good taste of summer. The mezzanine is a lovely space for those of you who seek a quiet space to read or work. On a few select days, this space becomes a small home cinema or a stage for local bands to perform close to the audience. There is also a green garden on the balcony for the artist or romantic soul to free their mind once in a while.
Even if you are not in the mood to shop, it’s still a good idea to visit Vui Studio to take the best photos for your Instagram feed and take some personal time while traveling.
MORE INFORMATION
- Address: 3c Tong Duy Tan, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 090 212 12 09
- Business hours: 9:00 AM – 11 PM
- Website: VUI Studio
City Owls Hanoi
City Owls, run by two sisters, is not a new place to the young scene in Hanoi since it’s been around for almost five years. You will find stylish clothing from tops to bottoms and especially the beautiful traditional dress of Vietnam, the ao dai. In addition, City Owls also has handmade decor, cute pottery, and natural soap. Even though the price is a little bit upscale, the quality of goods makes it worthwhile! The sweet interior decoration of this studio will also melt your heart.
MORE INFORMATION
- Address: 27 Phan Dinh Phung, Quan Thanh, Ha Noi
- Phone number: 024 3734 9119
- Business hours: 9:00 AM – 9 PM
- Website: City Owls
Mode:On
Contrary to City Owls, Mode:On is the new-born concept store in town. It is really hard to stop your heart from wandering inside once you see the super cute pink and bright store in the heart of the city. There is a wide-range of goods sold here like flowers, phone case, notebooks, purses, bookmarks, teacups, postcards, and more.
What I love about this place is everything comes in a bright color and cute pattern. Such little things draw a smile on your face from day to day, and it will remind you of Vietnam. If you have no idea about what to gift your best friend on her birthday, I’m sure you will find a lot of things in Mode:On.
- Address: 05 Ho Xuan Huong, Hai Ba Trung W., Ha Noi
- Phone number: 024 6293 3429
- Business hours: 9:00 AM – 9 PM
- Website: Mode:On
Collective Memories Hanoi
Just the name of the shop convinced me to check it out. There you will find the famous Marou chocolate, handmade soaps, an Indochina map, Vietnam chili sauce made from a family formula, French Indochina inspired printed cushions, and tote bags. Stop by Collective Memories, you will find “touchable” memories of Vietnam to bring back home.
- Address: 20 Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem W., Ha Noi
- Phone number: 0986 474 243
- Business hours: 9:00 AM – 8 PM
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/collectivememory.vn
Shopping Malls
There are many people who find joy in wandering around the shopping malls to admire the clothes hanging on mannequins–also referred to as window shopping. Besides, some people just want to find a place with air-conditioning to get away from the insane heat of Hanoi and try some good food after a long shopping day. If you want to pay a visit to see what the malls in Vietnam are like, here are a few names for you:
Trang Tien Plaza
- Address: 24 Hai Ba Trung, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
- Business hours: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Vincom Center – Ba Trieu
- Address: 191 Ba Trieu, Hai Ba Trung Ward, Hanoi
- Business hours: 9:00 AM – 9:45 PM
AEON Mall Long Bien
- Address: 27 Co Linh, Long Bien Ward, Hanoi
- Business hours: 10 AM – 10 PM
Lotte Shopping Center
- Address: 51 Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi
- Business hours: 9:30 AM – 10 PM
At these malls you can find everything- from branded clothes to entertainment centers and dining venues. You can easily spend a whole day wandering around!
This is just the beginning of the shopping experience in Hanoi city. All of our beloved cities in Vietnam are changing quickly, adding more stores and local crafts to bring home every day. I hope you will have a great time exploring the capital of Vietnam. You can check out more articles about shopping guides in other cities like Sapa, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Saigon. For now, happy shopping!
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