Fair warning: Nary is the most dangerous place in Phnom Penh for my credit card. I always walk out with a shopping bag, and last time it was three pieces. Zero regrets.

A New York label with Cambodian roots

Nary is a women's clothing brand founded in New York by two Cambodian-American sisters.

Everything is ethically made in Cambodia, with a clear mission: supporting the women who sew the collections. I really admire what they're doing.

Linen, cotton and cuts that actually flatter

If you're looking for linen dresses in Phnom Penh that don't look like generic beachwear, this is the place. The collections are mostly linen and cotton, ideal for the tropical heat, and the cuts are genuinely elegant. The fabric drapes beautifully, with feminine, chic details like pleats and soft gathers. It's resort wear you can wear to brunch, to a gallery opening or on the plane home.

Heads-up: sizing is all over the place

Nary is listed as a boutique for Western sizes, which is great news if you've struggled to find clothes that fit in Cambodia. But here's the catch: sizes vary a lot from one piece to the next. I left with 3 items in 3 different sizes. So try everything on, even the pieces that look too big or too small on the hanger. There's only one fitting room, but it's never been an issue: I've never run into other shoppers, so you can take your time.

My strategy: save it for the end of your trip

Every time I'm in town, I make myself the same promise: Nary comes last. If I go on day one, I know I'll do some serious damage and spend the rest of the trip having to watch my budget. Saving it for your final days is also the smartest way to bring home something from Phnom Penh you'll actually wear. Just leave some room in your suitcase.

On budget: at around $40 for a top and $80 for a dress, Nary isn't the cheapest shop in town by Cambodian standards. But for well-cut designer linen made under fair conditions, it's still very reasonable compared with what you'd pay for similar pieces in New York, London or Paris.

Practical info

Nary sits on Street 240, one of the city's loveliest streets for browsing boutiques and cafés. While you're there, pop into Dorsu on the same street: another Cambodian-made linen and cotton label, more relaxed in style and easier on the wallet.

• Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9am–7pm, Sat–Sun 11am–7pm

Looking for more places to shop? Browse all my shopping and lifestyle spots in Phnom Penh.