Hello, super shoppers, the Manulife Danang International Marathon was held successfully on 18 – 20 March. In case you missed it, we encourage you to take the opportunity to get your steps up any way you can. Hitting a few fab boutiques counts because retail can be a sport too. On your marks, get set, shop!
1. La Maison de L’Apothiquaire
Kick off your shopathon at the original branch of this gorgeous spa selling their own line of skincare products from France. Located in a restored century-old townhouse near the start of busy retail strip Dong Khoi, its tiled floors, high ceilings and wooden cabinetry transport you to a calming apothecary of old. Stock up on scent-sational body and face oils, scrubs, bath salts, soaps and herbal blends using quality natural and organic ingredients.
41, Dong Khoi / Dist. 1 / spa-lapothiquaire.vn
2. Cong Tri
Rock up a few blocks to frock up like the star that you are at Nguyen Cong Tri’s new flagship store in the Hotel Continental. The darling designer of choice for the city’s jet set counts celebs such as Rihanna, Beyoncé and Katy Perry among clients who have fallen for his high-octane glam creations that shimmer, glitter and flatter. More traditional off the rack numbers are available, but bespoke and MTM (made-to-measure) occasion wear is his thing.
132-134 Dong Khoi / Dist. 1 / congtri.net
3. Thuy Design House
Also at the Continental is Hanoi-born designer Thuy Nguyen’s east-meets-west creations based on her love of and background in fine art. Intricate brocade is her signature, which can be found in bold and beautiful tunics, ao dais and dresses with contemporary twists. MTM and custom outfits available.
132-134 Dong Khoi / Dist. 1 / thuydesignhouse.com
4. L’Usine
Make tracks to lifestyley motherlode L’Usine on Le Thanh Ton, a cool concept store that champions local artisans and designers alongside international labels. This is the spot for Avana’s handmade clothing, Cochine candles, diffusers and room sprays by Woo, teas from Sense Asia, bags, threads and accessories by Ladan, and much more. Its café by day and wine bar by evening makes for the perfect pit stop too.
19 Le Thanh Ton / Dist. 1 / lusinespace.com
5. Catherine Denoual Maison Boutique
Discerning types have been sleeping with Catherine’s lovely, embroidered linens since 1998 so she’s doing something right. Her chic and crisp sheets are made from 100 percent extra-long staple cotton satin 500 thread count, which simply translates to smooth bedding with a luxurious sheen for a good night’s rest. Custom sets available on request.
38 Ly Tu Trong / Dist. 1 / catherinedenoual.com
6. Vietmode Vietnam
End your spree at pioneering Vietnamese designer Minh Hanh’s extraordinary gallery-like boutique. She has been in the business for nearly three decades, making a name with her silky, floaty and colourful dresses that draw from trad, ethnic and global influences. Minh Hanh is also a major supporter of up-and-coming talent and showcases the best of them alongside her own label.
149 Hai Ba Trung / Dist. 3 / minhhanh.org