Shopping

For the bargain hunter, the best places to go would be Melbourne’s laneways and arcades. Make sure to search for the Block, Cathedral and Royal arcades, Degraves and Crossley streets, Presgrave and Centre places. More than a shopping experience, you will find it a journey of discovery as you make your way through these areas. Expect to find both local and international fashion items, from clothes to accessories in the countless numbers of shops.

In the Cathedral Arcade, you can find Japanese-inspired fashion items among many other things. For gorgeous lingerie at a good price, you should find your way to the Smitten Kitten at Degraves Street. People with tastes leaning towards the vintage items, on the other hand, should head on over to the Shag or Retrostar.

If high fashion is what you are after, then you can feast your eyes and lighten your purses in the upmarket shops and boutiques that Melbourne has to offer. There are many Australian designers that have made a name for themselves in the world of fashion. Among these are Akira Isogawa, Saba, Alannah Hill, Morissey, Collette Dinnigan, and Country Road. Akira Isogawa is known for his designs, which combine elements of his Japanese roots and modern Australian design. Saba is one of the most influential Australian labels, which has its roots all the way back to 1965. Alannah Hill’s designs are perfect for those who like flowery ensembles. Peter Morissey, another icon in Australian fashion, is known for his sexy get ups with minimal fuss. Collette Dinnigan, first known because of her handmade lingerie, now caters to celebrities such as Nicole Kidman. As you can see, Melbourne fashion can compete with the best in the world!

Melbourne also has a lot to offer in terms of jewellery and other accessories. One of the best known retail shops is e.g. etal, located on Little Collins Street, offers the work of more than 50 of the best contemporary Australian jewellers. More than the shop itself, they also hold regular exhibits, which jewellery enthusiasts will certainly appreciate.

If you were to visit only one place for your Melbourne shopping experience, you have to go to the GPO. Historically known as the Melbourne General Post Office, this venue was opened once again in 2004 as a precinct for food, fashion, and shopping. This place is humongous – covering an entire block – and features over 60 shops offering all sorts of items. From upmarket clothing and accessories to spas and salons – you will find these things at the GPO. It is the perfect venue to go to if you do not feel like hopping from one area to another.

Once you get to Melbourne, you will realise that shopping is more than a simple past time. The quality and quantity of shops will attest to that.