ONE of Singapore's oldest retailers, Tangs, is setting up a 3D replica of its green-tiled roof and red pillared Orchard Road landmark selling clothes to denizens of online world Second Life - for real money.

It is the first such store from any Asian retailer. Most shops in Second Life, which has 15 million registered accounts, are standalone operations set up by individuals, although companies like General Motors and Adidas have also set up dealerships selling virtual cars and sneakers.

When the virtual Tangs opens in March, visitors will be able to buy clothes, hairdos and different looks for their characters. Shoppers can expect to see items from Tangs' signature lines but with a tinge of fantasy, in line with players' desire for a 'larger than life' appearance for their online personas.They can pay for their purchases in Linden dollars, the game's currency, or via a virtual credit card.

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