SINGAPORE - Haji Lane is my go-to place when Ineed an elegant vintage frock or a casual retro skirt to add some colour to my wardrobe.

But I'm usually disappointed because, more often that not, it is pricey - items sometimes cost more than $80 per piece.

So when I spotted Grammah, a new shop that opened on the street earlier this month, I crossed my fingers, hoping to find some unique outfits that wouldn't burn a hole in my wallet.

Signature style

The store may be new, but a sense of familiarity immediately washed over me.

There were vintage trinkets like rotary phones and oil lamps sprinkled across the store. And near the front of the store was a chalk-drawn hopscotch grid.

I would have played this traditional children's game had I not been distracted by racks of vintage women's wear in all colours and styles.

From shift dresses that Twiggy made popular in the 60s to long frocks in outlandish prints from the 80s and 90s, it was a trip down memory lane for sure.

I fell in love with a bold floral printed skirt.

There were shirts with big checks and neon-coloured polka dots. They would look great paired with a miniskirt.

There were also military jackets and distressed denim vests and jackets that both men and women might be interested in.

In a room behind the cashier was a sign that read "relish your childhood". It was a room packed with nostalgia as I recognised many things from my childhood - almost fifteen years ago.

I remembered the tin pencil boxes that my classmate hated because I was always dropping mine - often making a lot of noise.

And in one corner of the store were snacks that will take you back to your recess breaks in primary school.

Clearly, I wasn't the only one reminiscing. There were also others who were constantly exclaiming "Oh my gosh! I remember this!"

Price point

The clothes were affordable, especially when compared to other vintage shops down the street. Most of the dresses and skirts cost less than $45 - a decent enough price to pay.

And it pays to bring a buddy or two if you plan to shop here. The more pieces you buy, the cheaper it is. So if you are intending to get a skirt and the original price is $42, get your friends to buy one piece each, and you can get your skirt for $35.

And if you need to update your clothes, you can try adding trendy stud details that come in different shapes - at just 10 cents a piece.

Nostalgia comes at a cheap price as well.

Previous attempts at shopping elsewhere for remnants of my childhood always came up short because they were overpriced.

Not here, though. The popular plastic toys from My Little Pony cost $8 and the vintage pencil cases cost $5.

Although, if truth be told, even if they are cheap, I don't see much use for them other than some reminiscing by way of a photo and caption on Instagram. They would probably be chucked into a drawer sooner or later.

Something that may be of more use was a necklace with little plastic dinosaurs. At only $12, it was definitely a steal.

Store layout

The first floor of the shophouse is cramped.

As there were at least five other customers there, I had difficulty moving from one rack to another.

It is a little more spacious on the second level. So if you're feeling claustrophobic, head on up.

Service

Because there were a handful of customers, the sales staff were tied up. But they made sure to be of service as soon as they were free.

On the second level was a particularly friendly salesgirl who took time to explain the different alteration services available at the store.

You can even dye your clothes.

She also suggested several ways in which I could alter the skirt that I was interested in buying. However, it is still early days for the store. Hopefully, the good service here will continue.

Verdict

Where first impressions are concerned, this store certainly made a positive one. The selection of clothes here as well as the nostalgic touches will keep me coming.

WHAT: Grammah

HISTORY: Grammah is owned by two friends.

They also own Modparade next door - popular among the younger set for its edgy clothes.

WHERE: 66, Haji Lane

WHEN: Mondays to Thursdays and Sundays: Noon to 8pm; Fridays and Saturdays: Noon to 9pm

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