For as long as we can remember, the only thing that had us stepping through the doors of Amarin Plaza was the brand name sales. Yet the launch of its new fashion zone, id1, has put this oft-overlooked mall back on the fashion map. Nearly 40 small shops, retailing fashion and accessories at affordable prices, are packed into the ground floor, making id1 a mini-Siam Square but with the added benefit of air-con. Here’s our pick of the boutique bunch.

Get the 50-60s Betty Draper (Mad Men) look with the dresses and blouses on offer at Oneoneseven (02-256-9817), which come with a hint of vintage, delicate fabrics and pastel colors. The Old Story (081-372-6724, [email protected]) takes this trend further with fashion items, from shirts to jeans in vivid hues. Rocco by Roccoco retails a range of leather shoes and accessories, from classy 80s wedges to day bags. But those looking for more budget options shouldn’t miss Wanvisa & Mom (086-335-2468, 089-133-5458) who stock a wide selection of leather high heels office workers would fight over, from just B1,490-1,790. Wanvisa also offers a tailor- made service, too. Complete your look with accessories handmade from resin, acrylic or wood from Golf R-Porn (B300-1,500, 081- 566-8815).

Got a fancy cocktail party coming up? Lend yourself a touch of bling at Jewelry Cafe (02-652-0300, www.beebijoux.com/jewelry- cafe), a sister brand of jewel retailer Bee Bijoux, which presents their colorful cupcake- like rings made from gold, white gold and pink gold studded with diamonds in a super cute faux-cafe space. And if you need a fine jewelry box (from B1,100) to keep them in then just head to the nearby Tyme boutqiue (02-311-2131).

Though we admit id1 is mostly for the girls, there are some options for guys too. For starters, drop by at Mantis (085-559-2901, [email protected]) for simple t-shirts in colorful shades and prints (from B220). Also here is the Siam Square-favorite Adverb (02- 684-1199) with their pastel-colored stripes and polka dot shirts and My Muse (085-918-7788, keng.14@hot- mail.com) for toys and small resin sculptures (B250- 1,200).
G/F, Amarin Plaza, 02-256-9111. BTS Chit Lom