Shopping Hot Spots

We’re a fashionable lot in Melbourne, and if you’re reading this then you probably are too.

It’s standard to see shopping bags on the tram or train. One of the best parts about shopping in Melbourne – whether you’re in the city or roaming many of the suburban hotspots – is that irrespective of your style, there’s a destination for you. Read on, we’ve done some of the heavy lifting for you. Bring your besties or fly solo; you’re sure to leave Melbourne looking much more on-trend than when you arrived.

Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

Welcome to Fitzroy, the home of the hipster. Of course, as Melbourne’s oldest suburb, the area has seen more than one fad over time. Brunswick Street is where much of the action happens, and it’s where you’re sure to find a retro delight to stay with you long after you return home.

One of the best vintage stores is Hunter Gatherer [247 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy], where racks of funky skirts and dresses for her co-exist with dapper jackets, slacks and ties. Not only will you uncover the fashion secrets of yesteryear, but you’ll also shop knowing Hunter Gatherer is run by the Brotherhood of St Laurence, and your dollars will benefit those who need it most.

Tram: Route 11 to stop 17, Leicester Street / Brunswick Street

Chapel Street, South Yarra and Prahran

For decades, Chapel Street has acted as a beacon for fashionistas both local and visiting. Blending with cafes, restaurants and bars that line the busy thoroughfare, with its strong history a shopping trip on Chapel is quite possibly going to extend into a second (or third) day.

One retailer who has you covered no matter what end of the strip you begin your search at is Gorman [561 Chapel Street, South Yarra and 248 Chapel Street, Prahran]. A proudly Melbourne-based label with nearly 20 years on the local scene, the bright patterns and gorgeous fabrics will have you dancing your way down Chapel all day – and well into the night.

Tram: Route 78 to stop 49, Palermo Street / Chapel Street (South Yarra store) or stop 46, Chatham Street / Chapel Street (Prahran)
Train: Sandringham line to South Yarra or Prahran Stations

Gertrude Street, Fitzroy

While Brunswick Street has historically been the shopping mecca of the north, in recent years a new challenger has emerged to its immediate south (in fact, Brunswick and Gertrude Street intersect and it’s more wonderful than you could ever hope).

While Melbourne is the music capital of Australia, real aficionados will also recognise that the city’s soul and funk music scene is on par with any other across the globe. Celebrate this at Northside Records [Northside Records, 236 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy], where records, CDs and other paraphernalia spanning hip-hop, reggae, soul and the funkiest of funk are sold.

Tram: Route 86 to Gertrude Street / Smith Street

Greville Street, Prahran

If you hop off the train at Prahran Station, before you hit the bright lights of Chapel Street you’ll find yourself on the petite Greville Street. Once the epicentre of bohemian chic in Melbourne (on the south side, at least), a stroll along the strip proves that the area still has a definite charm.

For a truly unique reminder of your trip to Greville Street, hit up Das Automat [127 Greville Street, Prahran]. Bring in a picture, photo or idea and they’ll print it onto a garment of your choice! Think t-shirts, hoodies, bags and even undies; they’ve got you covered.

Tram: Route 78 to stop 46, Chatham Street / Chapel Street
Train: Sandringham line to Prahran Station

High Street, Armadale

High Street has had a (well-deserved) reputation as being one of the best strips for bridal shopping, and it’s also home to plenty of great cafes, but it also boasts a high-class array of excellent designer fashion.

It might be a Sydney label, but Melburnians are savvy enough to swallow any hometown pride to shop in one of High Street’s most fashionable stores, Jac + Jack [1021 High Street, Armadale]. Selling both men’s and women’s clothing since 2004, the brand sources ethically and creates designs that allow the wearer to feel both luxurious and comfortable.

Tram: Route 6 to stop 41, Kooyong Road / High Street
Train: Cranbourne, Pakenham or Frankston lines to Armadale Station

Sydney Road, Brunswick

One of the most eclectic strips in all of Greater Melbourne, Sydney Road is not only the destination of any self-respecting live music fan, but also a great location for a spot of shopping.

It might not the most glamorous of shopping experiences, but for pure value and excellent customer service Dejour Jeans [542 Sydney Road, Brunswick] is hard to beat. They’ll custom fit you a pair of jeans for $50-60, so all you need to do is line up (yes, there’s often a line out the door), select your denim from the wall-to-ceiling options, and let them tailor you something just for you. They don’t have a website, but then again, they don’t really need one.

Tram: Route 19 to stop 24, Blyth Street / Sydney Road
Train: Upfield line to Brunswick Station (then walk 500 metres)