Shopping in Ho Chi Minh city can be a little intimidating. It is easy to move around in Hanoi as most shops and boutiques were located in the same area. In Ho Chi Minh city however, the department stores, boutiques and shops are spread out. The main shopping areas in district 1 (central) however are along Dong Khoi Street, Le Thanh Ton street and Pasteur road.
Ben Thanh Market
This is a required stop for all visitors to the city. Housed under 1 roof are more than 1000 shops selling everything and anything you may or may not need, from souvenirs to art, fake branded goods and fashion wear, shoes and custom make clogs, local hawker fare for the hungry, fresh meat, flowers, fruits, coffee beans, tea leaf, dry groceries and the list goes on.
Be prepared to bargain down the prices by 50%. The sales staff here are more aggressive than those in Hanoi, they also have shorter patience for bargaining but are persistent in harassing tourists to stop and browse at their stalls. Walk away if you feel uncomfortable. While browsing around, we were tapped on the shoulders, grabbed by the arms and even scolded when we bargained. This place is not for the casual shopper nor for the faint hearted.
Labella
85-87, Pasteur road, D1
My first experience at Labella in Hanoi was a pleasant one so I was keen to check out their flagship store in Ho Chi Minh city. It is located at a corner intersection between Le Thanh Ton and Pasteur road. This 2 storied building houses a wider selection of fashion wear suitable for work and play, fashion accessories and shoes. Designs incorporates traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship with modern styles. The upper floor is a showroom for their hand made leather bags and shoes as well as discounted previous season items. The ground floor is mainly fashion wear. Prices range from US$5 onwards and minor alterations for clothes are available without extra charges.
Saigonese
29, Dong Du St, D1
I stumbled upon this as I made my way to Dong Khoi St. Located opposite Espirit, this shop sells local handicrafts, ceramics and fashion wear that fuses Vietnamese ao dai and modern fashion styles- think retro prints with low cut Mandarin collars, knotted fasteners shaped like a sunflower in a baby-doll cut blouse.
The Cotton House
230, Le Thanh Ton St, D1
The Cotton House is within walking distance from Ben Thanh market (head towards the fresh meat/fruits section exit). As the name of the shop suggests, it sells all things cotton, from t-shirts to quilts, these come with exquisite hand-sewn embroidery with prices to match. The only grouse I have of this shop is that there is so much merchandise cramped into the small shop, it made browsing difficult.
Kito
78, Dong Khoi St, D1
Situated across from the Vietnam House, this Japanese owned shop sells lifestyle items and fashion accessories with designs that marries Japanese cuteness and Vietnamese craftsmanship. A good place to buy souvenirs with a difference. Prices are very reasonable, from US$5 onwards.