Shopping In Melbourne
Since returning from my last Styling and Shopping trip to Melbourne, I’ve been asked where I went shopping and if it is easy to find your way around?
Melbourne is easy to navigate.
On this trip I tried the Sky Bus from the airport to Southern Cross station, a quick change and a free shuttle ride to the motel. It was economical and convenient. Once settled in to your hotel you can plan your shopping trips.
Burke Street Mall is where you’ll find Myer, David Jones, Zara and many other fashion stores.
The GPO Melbourne is a historic listed building (I love the architecture) and where you’ll find H& M.
The Emporium Melbourne is great to stroll through and experience Australian and International designers.
The Block Arcade is in Collins Street and full of interesting shops, starting with Wittner Shoes, my favourite Australian shoe designer. Just a bit of history for you; Wittner shoes started as a family business in 1912. Haigs Chocolate is another favourite even if isn’t fashion – pick up some energy on your way around.
Melbourne Central is a new discovery and a shopping district in it’s own right, found when I had to catch the Frankston train to visit a client. I just had to make a detour before I caught the train.
DFO South Wharf is somewhere I just have to visit when I go to Melbourne; it’s easy to get around, has heaps of great buys, with brands like Mimico, Furla, Kate Spade, Marcs, Michael Kors and many more to be found. Its worthwhile checking out, even if you’re not a DFO Shopper.
It’s worth noting that most of the time I was able to walk around the CBD and across to South Wharf but if you’re not keen on walking most of it is in the Free Tram Zone. It’s easy and free to hop on and off the tram when travelling within that zone.
Outside of the CBD there are plenty of great shopping areas. I went shopping with a client at DFO Moorabbin where we found heaps of bargains and a great variety of stores – Portmans, Review, Diana Ferrari, Strandbags, Jeans West to name but a few.
Eastlands Shopping Centre and Westfields Doncaster are also great shopping spots that I had the opportunity to visit with clients.
Chadstone is a true shopping experience, and one you need a whole day to wander around. If you are not a ‘shopper’ it can be a bit overwhelming though. I didn’t get there this trip but if you get the chance you can grab the free Shuttle from Federation Square.
I needed a Vintage fix after shopping with clients in the Melbourne CBD and DFOs for a couple of days. So where did I go?
QV Shopping Complex is where I found American Rag, a neat and well laid out vintage store with a variety of men’s, women’s and children’s vintage garments.
Then, with only 2 hrs to spare, I headed down Swanston Street to the Nicholas Building, a heritage building with a beautiful glass dome ceiling. This is a great place to find vintage clothing.
First there is Vintage Sole, with a large variety of well-priced vintage garments and where it’s easy to spot what you’re looking for when you’re in a hurry. I made a quick purchase and moved on. On the first floor is the home of Retro Star vintage clothing. There is a huge variety of men and women’s clothing, shoes and accessories. I’ll definitely be back to try on the evening garments.
Have Fun on your next trip to Melbourne. I hope this gives you inspiration on where to shop while there.
