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MULTICULTURAL SHOPPING 4

Other unique treasures include the large assortment of fragrance oils at Aljunied Brothers, 91 Arab St. (65/6293-2751). Muslims are forbidden from consuming alcohol in any form (a proscription that includes the wearing of alcohol-based perfumes as well), so these oil-based perfumes re-create designer scents plus other floral and wood creations. Check out their delicate cut-glass bottles and atomizers as well. Finally, for the crafter in your life, Kin Lee & Co., 109 Arab St. (65/6291-1411), carries a complete line of patterns and accessories to make local Peranakan beaded slippers. In vivid colors and floral designs, these traditional slippers were always made by hand, to be attached later to a wooden sole. The finished versions are exquisite, plus they're fun to make.

I have a ball shopping the crowded streets of Little India. The best shopping is on Serangoon Road, where Singapore's Indian community shops for Indian imports and cultural items. If you fancy casual lightweight cottons, many readyto-wear outfits are on hand at Designs To-Day, 81 Serangoon Rd. (6 65/62921641), from dresses and skirts to blouses and shirts. Vegetable-dyed cotton prints feature embroidery and other Indian-style adornment. Prices are just right, too. For something more traditional, you can pick up a sari or a Punjabi suit.

Punjab Bazaar, #O1-07 Little India Arcade, 48 Serangoon Rd. (65/6296-0067), carries a larger choice of salwar kameez, also called Punjabi suits, in many styles W fabrics. These graceful three-piece outfits, consisting of a pair of drawstring pants worn under a flowing dress with a long coordinated scarf wrapped over the shoulders, translate elegantly in any culture. If nothing strikes your fancy at Pun11) Bazaar, try Roopalee Fashions, a little farther down at 84 Serangoon Rd. ! % 65/6298-0558). Their selection is a bit smaller, but you may find something there you like. Both shops carry sandals, bags, and other accessories to complement your new outfit.
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