Wan Xin NgLet’s be real: Online shopping is convenient, but also kind of a gamble. We’ve all been there. Scrolling through Taobao, Shopee or TikTok Shop at 2am, only to receive something that barely resembles the photo. Sometimes you just want to try it on, feel the fabric and know it actually fits your vibe.
The problem? In Singapore, offline fashion shopping can sometimes feel limited. Sure, the boutique scene exists, but it’s not always the most financially accessible or exciting. That’s where Johor Bahru comes in.
Just a short drive (or train ride!) across the border, Johor Bahru is a shopping paradise with plenty of boutiques that prove that real-life fashion therapy is still alive and well. The wide variety of boutiques makes JB’s fashion scene accessible to everyone, offering something for every budget, style, and personality. Whether you’re into coquette-core dresses, minimal chic, Y2K streetwear or vintage denim, these stylish spots cater to every aesthetic and budget.
Ready to romanticise real-life shopping again? Here are 10 of the best JB boutiques to check out on your next trip.
Also read: How to Go to Johor Bahru (JB) from Singapore for the Newbies
1. J.VOGUE – Trendy fits at pocket-friendly prices
Image credit: J.vogue Official Instagram Page
Looking for the kind of outfit that makes you feel like that girl without blowing your budget? J.VOGUE delivers. With several outlets across Johor Bahru, including Mount Austin, Skudai and Taman Gaya, this boutique is a treasure trove of TikTok-worthy ruched dresses and breezy basics. Many of their tops even come with built-in padding — so yes, you can skip the innerwear stress. Whether you’re into minimalist neutrals or playful Y2K streetwear, you’re bound to walk out with a new favourite look (or three).
Location: 17, Jln Austin Heights 7/7, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
2. Megumi’s Room by Tyng – Soft girl vibes
Image credit: Megumi’s Room Official Instagram Page
If your dream wardrobe looks like something out of a Studio Ghibli picnic scene, Megumi’s Room by Tyng is where you need to be. With outlets in Eco Palladium, Eco Galleria and Skudai, this pastel-toned boutique is a sanctuary for lovers of ribbon-tie dresses, crochet cardigans, and floaty ruffled skirts. The pieces here feel like they belong in a fairytale, making it perfect for your next café hop.
Location: 36, Jalan Pendekar 10, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
3. Threads – Minimalist staples
Image credit: Thread’s Official Instagram & Tiktok Page
Tucked away in Taman Mount Austin, Threads is all about clean silhouettes, neutral tones and everyday wearability. Think high-quality basics, oversized shirts and flattering linen pieces that go with everything. The boutique’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to browse, and the curated racks are perfect for those looking to build a capsule wardrobe or even just to refresh your work fits.
Location: 11-01, Jalan Austin Heights 8/5, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
4. Oni J – Chic City Vibes
Image credit: Oni J Official Instagram Page
Oni J is where sharp tailoring meets comfy chic. This two-level boutique in Mount Austin carries matching sets, sleek outerwear, trendy bags and even footwear all under one roof! The aesthetic leans toward modern professional, with just enough flair to keep things fresh. Bonus: There’s a dedicated men’s section upstairs, making it great for couple or group shopping trips.
Location: 12, 3, Jln Austin Heights 7, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
5. NRN Concept Store – Trendy pieces with Douyin girl energy
Image credit: NRN Concept Store Official Instagram Page
Calling all fans of ‘Douyin-core’ and Taobao trends, NRN Concept Store has you covered. This boutique is stocked with fashion-forward pieces inspired by online fashion queens, from puff-sleeve blouses to ruffled minis and oversized blazers. It’s youthful, playful and perfect if you love a statement piece or five.
Location: 12, 3, Jln Austin Heights 7, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
6. DI Studios – Minimalist high-fashion
Image credit: DI Studio’s Official Instagram Page
DI Studios channels the timeless elegance of COS and the modern chic of Uniqlo. Expect structured basics, monochrome sets and unique silhouettes in a calming, neutral palette. Located in Mid Valley Southkey, it’s a great stop for fashion minimalists or anyone looking for wardrobe staples that whisper rather than shout.
Location: F049, Level 1, The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey, Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Also read: A Guide to Thrift Shopping in Johor Bahru (JB) for Singaporeans
7. VeryToys – Y2K streetwear and cat companions
Image credit: VeryToys’ Official Instagram Page
Edgy meets adorable at VeryToys, a streetwear boutique best known for its bold graphics and distressed jeans. With a mix of Y2K energy and underground cool, this is the place for those who want their outfit to turn heads.
Location: NO60-01, Jln Austin Heights 8/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
8. Getthelook Emma – Wearable basics with a touch of romance
Image credit: Getthelook Emma’s Official Instagram Page
Don’t let the clean layout fool you; this boutique knows how to do cute. Getthelook Emma offers a mix of neutral-toned staples, romantic dresses and easy-to-pair separates that can take you from café dates to casual Fridays. Their pieces are effortlessly versatile, and the price point is super reasonable.
Location: 15,Jalan Pendekar 15,Taman Ungku Tun Aminah Skudai, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
9. Redchilli Vintage Store – Curated retro finds for the old-soul fashionista
Image credit: Redchilli Vintage Store’s Official Instagram Page
Vintage lovers, don’t skip Redchili. This boutique is packed with pre-loved gems: Band tees, worn-in denim, retro dresses and classic workwear. The racks are thoughtfully curated and updated often, so you never know what treasure you’ll stumble across. If you’re into sustainable fashion with character, this is the spot.
Location: 15C, Jalan Dhoby, Off, Jalan Pahang, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
10. B-Side Room – A more refined take on second-hand style
Image credit: B-Side Room’s Official Instagram Page
B-Side Room feels more like a fashion gallery than a thrift shop. With a focus on quality cuts, timeless tailoring and elevated basics, it’s ideal for shoppers who love the thrill of vintage but want a more curated experience. You’ll find well-preserved pieces that add a little edge and a lot of class.
Location: 66a, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Also read: Johor Bahru (JB) Bucket List: 15 Activities for Singaporeans
Final thoughts
With online shopping becoming the norm, it’s easy to forget how fun it is to actually try things on, mix and match on the spot and feel the fabric between your fingers. The boutiques in JB bring back that magic. Not to mention, stores like NRN and J.VOGUE regularly overhaul their racks, so even if you visit the same outlet twice, it can feel like stepping into a whole new shop. It’s a Pinterest board come to life, but without the Taobao gamble.
For Singaporeans feeling boxed in by the same mall brands or priced out of indie fashion at home, JB offers more than just retail therapy — it also offers new possibilities. So the next time you cross the Causeway, skip the same old haunts. Go boutique-hopping. You never know, you might just rediscover yourself in the fitting room mirror.
