Repetto, known for its comfortable leather flats and brogues, will open its first stand-alone boutique in Singapore at Ion Orchard next month.

The store will carry the full range of Repetto items, including ballet flats, sneakers and dance equipment.

Currently, only a limited selection is available at its counters in Takashimaya and Tangs.

Repetto flats are made using a special stitching process - where the sole is sewn inside out and then turned back in - which accounts for their comfort, durability and, also, steep prices.

Prices range from $45 for a soft leather pouch to $960 for crystal-embellished ballet flats.

The Liz Violet Ballerina costs $380.

German luxury brand MCM, or Mode Creation Munich, will be opening its first flagship boutique in South-east Asia at Marina Bay Sands next week.

The store will carry the brand's iconic monogrammed backpacks, shoes and accessories.

It will also carry limited-edition items not available elsewhere in Asia.

The new boutique is being brought in by the Atelier Groupe, a new local company.

The MCM boutique at Changi Airport Terminal 2, which is closed for renovation, is operated by a separate company.

To mark the Marina Bay Sands store's opening, the label will also showcase its spring/summer 2014 collection at Fashion Week 2013 on the same day.

Expect a star-studded opening as celebrities, such as Korean superstar Rain, are expected to attend.

The 170 sq m shop will be located at the Marina Bay Sands hotel lobby.

MCM had a store in Singapore until it pulled out in the late 1990s.

The ailing German brand was bought over by Ms Kim Sung-Joo, a South Korean luxury entrepreneur, in 2005.

Back then, it was best known for its luggage bags and jeans.

But now, its backpack is a hit with celebrities such as K-pop star G-Dragon and American pop idol Justin Bieber.

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