Itching to indulge in some retail therapy and running low on budget? Fret not! Here are some interesting street shopping haunts in Mumbai, which in addition to being pocket friendly have some fabulous stuff. Happy shopping!
By Ayesha Dasgupta
Hill Road, Bandra
This bustling street in Bandra is a haven for street shopping. From hidden corners that sell chunky brogues and on – trend floral plimsolls, to a hole in the wall selling jewellery that reeks of ACCESSORIZE at quarter the price, Hill Road is a must for every girl on a budget! Keep an eye out for export surplus/reject clothing; some seriously cool oversized tees, plaid shirts and sweatshirts that have been spotted amidst the chaos.
Colaba Causway
This never ending line of stalls in the heart of South Mumbai is the Big Daddy of street shopping. A dream for every boho chic girl, the high point of Colaba Causeway is the fabulous chunky jewellery at very reasonable prices. Found alongside at most stalls are belts ( you might get lucky and find an amazing embroidered one!) and bags in cloth and faux leather. Tons of super fun shades in the latest shapes as well as some funky vintage glasses are also available in select stalls. Since its a favourite with the backpacking crowd, theres no regulation in pricing, so be ready to bargain hard for what you want!
Fashion Street, Near CST
If TOPSHOP is among your favourite high street brands, but you aren’t planning on travelling abroad anytime soon, just hit Fashion Street instead! You are guaranteed to find some killer TOPSHOP export surplus/reject stuff , especially in the line of shops opposite ‘The Bombay Gym’. It is also one of the few street shopping haunts for men’s wear in the city.
Linking Road, Bandra
This lot of street shops opposite National College in Bandra is predominantly a great shopping haunt for cheap and cheerful footwear. A huge variety of mojris, kohlapuris , flat sandals and ballet flats line the long street. Adding splashes of colour are stacked beaded bracelets, necklaces, scarves and rows of belts. If South Mumbai is not on your agenda this time, there are some fun bags and chunky accessories to be found this side of the Sea Link as well! Go armed with your best bargaining skills though.
Lokhandwala Market
A happy mix of clothing, footwear, accessories and knick knacks to carry back as prezzies, Lokhandwala Market is buzzing till 10 pm! For those who take their time to roll out of bed, this place is perfect as most shops open only at 12 noon. Although many boutiques on this street are known for stocking replicas of various brands, there are other fun clothes and accessories available as well. It is also a great haunt for biker boots and faux leather jackets for the boys. My advice would be to keep a look out for cool umbrellas and sparkly jellies for the monsoon.
About the author:
Ayesha Dasgupta is a Mumbai based Costume Stylist for Films and Televison Commercials. She has recently started her own clothing label , State of Play.
