Where to Shop in Colombo: Best Fashion Bargain Finds
Colombo might be Sri Lanka’s bustling capital, but it’s also a bit of a fashion hunter’s playground, if you know where to look. From high-street labels at knock-down prices to quirky boutiques and market stalls full of character. I was genuinely surprised by how many shopping gems I found here. So, no need to worry if you’ve left something behind. There are plenty of shops in Colombo where you can pick up great clothes without blowing your budget.
Whether you’re into designer dupes, one-of-a-kind statement pieces, or just want a killer kaftan for beach days, Colombo delivers. And if you’re a bargain-lover like me, let’s just say… pack light. You’ll need space in your suitcase!
In this post, I’ll take you through my personal favourite budget-friendly fashion finds in the Colombo area. Complete with local tips, hidden gems, and a few “I-can’t-believe-I-found-this” moments.
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Best Fashion Bargain Finds You’ll Actually Brag About
Confession: I didn’t go to Colombo expecting to shop. I packed light, thinking I was being all minimalist and “travel savvy.” Huge mistake. Colombo is a fashion bargain paradise, and if you’re anything like me (always on the hunt for affordable style that looks way more expensive than they are), you’re going to love this list.
Just one of the many outfits I purchased in Colombo
From massive department stores to blink-and-you’ll-miss-it local favourites. Here are 13 fashion shopping spots in Colombo (and just outside) where I scored stylish finds, spent less than I budgeted, and had the best time doing it.
👉 If shopping isn’t your thing don’t worry, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy in Colombo. Read here for my top picks.
Shopping In Colombo – Bonus Tip Before You Go:
- Try things on. Sizing can be unpredictable and the labels often show the wrong sizes (but if that’s the only reason why something is classed as a second) I’m not complaining.
1. House of Fashions – Senanayake Mawatha
Let’s kick off with an absolute shoppers paradise. Five floors. Endless racks. If you’re a “dig through and discover” kind of shopper, this is your mecca.
Best for: Basics, travel clothes, kidswear, lingerie, last-minute holiday looks.
Highlights – Brands on offer include, Zara, Dorothy Perkins, Stradivarius. I’ve even seen Calvin Klein too. My find: A Zara dress that cost less than a Starbucks.
2. The Fashion Store – Nugegoda
Full of little surprises. If you like boutique vibes without boutique prices, check this one out. I ended up buying pajamas, completley unplanned. This is also a good place to find the perfect pair of jeans.
Best for: Latest fashion, smart-casual tops, scarves.
Vibe Check: Great quality for the price and the staff were super sweet. I found this pretty dress, perfect for hot weather.
3. No Limit – Dehiwela
I don’t know what I expected, but I walked out with a full outfit. It’s like Colombo’s version of Primark, only with better kaftans.
Best for: Affordable fashion for everyone. And I mean everyone—men, women, kids, toddlers and babies.
My tip: Weekends can be busy. Go mid-morning mid-week for breathing room.
4. Kandy Fashion – Bambalapitiya (and beyond)
This place is a gem. It’s super local, super affordable, and full of pieces you’ll wear over and over.
Best for: Bold prints, floaty tops, and that “just found it in a random boutique” vibe.
Vibe check: Walk in with no expectations and walk out with an entire holiday wardrobe.
5. Y’Pay More – Hill Street, Dehiwala
The name alone deserves an award. This one’s for the savvy shopper. I think a lot of the clothes in here are seconds so check before you buy. But, definitely worth a visit if you have time.
Best for: Comfy tops, workwear, and casual-chic pieces.
My pick: A white linen shirt that looks expensive but cost less than a fancy smoothie. I also saw a denim Guess dress for under £10, but sadly they didn’t have my size. I ended up buying this red maxi skirt and it became a well worn piece during my time away.
6. Cool Planet – Maharagama
I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I ended up buying a pair of shorts, a couple of sparkly bangles and nearly a suitcase. This could be a new favorite spot of mine.
Best for: Cute dresses, accessories, fashion jewelry and casual clothes for hot weather.
Bonus: Air-conditioned, spacious, changing rooms and they sometimes do bundle discounts.
7. Cotton Collection – Duplication Road
Softer colour palette. Light fabrics. Slightly higher price point, but totally worth it.
Best for: Breathable cotton pieces, flowy dresses, pretty scarves.
What I bought: A gorgeous beige linen dress that’s now my go-to for brunch and beach days.
8. Fashion Bug – Multiple Locations (Including Mount Lavinia, Nugegoda, and Kandy)
Yes, the name’s a little odd (makes me think of 90s glitter jeans), but don’t judge it too quickly. Fashion Bug is beloved by locals, and it’s easy to see why. You’ll find everything from casual dresses, workwear and bargain jeans to comfy men’s fashion.
Best for: Affordable daily wear, office-friendly outfits, and occasionwear on a budget.
Why I rate it: I walked in “just for a look” and left with a beach bag, beach dress and swim wear… for under £12. It’s that kind of place.
Bonus: The stores are clean, air-conditioned, and well organised. No digging required.
9. ODEL – Colombo 7
ODEL is a little more expensive than some of the others in the list, but you can still find bargains. Head to the back, check every clearance rail, and thank me later.
Best for: Western brands, comfy loungewear, Sri Lanka souvenirs in style.
Pro tip: Their gift section is surprisingly good. Bonus, after all that shopping take a break in the courtyard dining area, try the freshly made churros with hot choc sauce.
10. Romafour – 71 Galle Road, Colombo
If you love the idea of owning a bag that looks designer but costs less than a takeaway, RUN to Romafour.
Best for: Accessories, handbags, belts, sunglasses, evening dresses and asian boutique clothing. I found a beautiful sari, which I wore to a wedding.
Not to miss: Their sunglasses section is 🔥.
11. Pettah Market – Colombo
This place is pure energy. Don’t expect air-con or price tags. Do expect to haggle, sweat, and walk away with unbeatable deals.
Best for: Fabrics, funky streetwear, accessories.
My Tip: Go early, wear light clothes, and bring cash (small notes, always!).
12. Marino Mall
A mix of shops. I love that you can find both branded stores and small boutiques. For me Diliganz is the stand out fashion choice in here.
Best for: Shoes, sarees, jewellery and casual clothing.
Pro tip: If you have time, check out the food court on the top floor. The views of the ocean are pretty special, especially during sunset.
13. Majestic City Mall – Bambalapitiya
A little dated, but still a good place to scope out deals, especially for shoes and casual wear.
Best for: Branded trainers, men’s clothes, kids’ wear. My best find was a beautiful white lace Reiss dress for less than £10
👉 Planning a day trip from Colombo? Don’t miss my guide to the best places you can explore in just one day—click here to read it!
Final Thoughts: Bring a Bigger Suitcase
Honestly, I did not expect to find this many stylish bargains in Colombo. The mix of local brands, department store treasures, and hidden market finds was such a thrill.
If you’re heading to Sri Lanka and wondering if Colombo is worth a shopping stop—it is. Just make sure you leave space in your suitcase… and maybe wear slip-on shoes. You’ll be trying a lot on.
Shopping In Colombo – FAQs
Absolutely. Whether you’re into budget fashion, designer dupes, or unique local brands, Colombo is full of retail surprises.
Your best bets are House of Fashions, No Limit, Y’Pay More and Kandy Fashion. Market areas like Pettah are also great for haggling and hunting down unique pieces. If you can spare a few hours, I highly recommend diving into the shopping scene in Colombo. You’ll be surprised by what you find!
If you’re after a more polished, air-conditioned shopping experience (with decent coffee and clean bathrooms), One Galle Face Mall is easily the top spot for fashion shopping in Colombo. It has a sleek, international vibe and is home to high-street favourites.
Fashion-wise: You’ll find everything from casual chic to office-smart and beach-ready. Prices are higher than Pettah or House of Fashions, but the variety and quality are solid.
Food Court Bonus: You will find Sri Lankan street food, bubble tea, sushi, pizza, and more. I may or may not have shopped just to reward myself with treats.
Runner-Up Malls:
Colombo City Centre Mall: Slightly smaller but still great for fashion and accessories. Check out Fashion Bug, Vantage, and international brands like Levis and Charles & Keith.
Havelock City Mall: One of the newer additions with a modern vibe and a few niche boutiques. Less crowded and still growing its fashion offering, but worth a visit.
In Pettah Market—definitely yes. In fixed-price stores like ODEL or House of Fashions—not really. But in small boutiques or roadside stalls, a bit of polite bargaining is totally normal.
Depends on what you’re after.
House of Fashions: Better selection overall and has more well known international brands on the shop floor.
No Limit: Great for t-shirts, accessories and they have a good selection of vacation ready clothing.