South Yarra, Prahran + Windsor

Stonnington; It has the quintessential Melbourne must haves like hidden laneways, incredible coffee and eye catching street art but dig a little deeper and you’ll find a place where weekend play and convenience all come together for that perfect balance of style, fun and intrigue.

Shop

Around the corner from Armadale Station is Mister Zimi, a store full of colourful frocks ideal for summer lounging and beachside holidays. Gorman and Ryder on High Street and Chapel Street are perfect for picking up unique pieces with their whimsical prints and bright colour palettes. High Street is also a bridal-wear go-to. With your perfect frock in mind head to Luci DiBella Bespoke Couture and let the experts tailor make your gown.

Shopping mecca Chapel Street is a well-known Melbourne fashion strip and with everything from high end designers to vintage classics there’s something to suit even the fussiest fashion star. You’ll find Scanlan Theodore, Arthur Galan AGand Manning Cartell who give the European labels a run for their money. Head across the road and stock up on staples with Alice McCall and LIFEwithBIRD.

If your homewares need an update Market Import make frequent trips to Mexico, Italy and Spain and stack their shelves with gorgeous bright and colourful tableware, textiles and furniture. For quirky and playful gifts you can’t go past Lunar Store and Third Drawer Down on Greville Street or pick up a cute house plant from Cool Cactus. On Commercial Road, The Cool Hunter has everything from art to lights, books, food, furniture and accessories. Get lost among treasures from yesteryear at Chapel Street Bazaar as you search for that one of a kind vintage piece.

See+Do

Once you’ve hit the shops a little indulgence is in order so Head to Neon & Co salon for their signature blow dry or go all out with their popular treatment oil. This miracle product is developed to increase the longevity of blow dries and minimise the need to wash hair as frequently. For the ultimate pamper session make your way to Missy Lui nail salon for a mani/pedi complete with a nourishing and relaxing hand massage.

You wouldn’t have guessed it but among the shops, bars and cafes are a collection of independent gallery spaces. A standout is MARS gallery – a modern light filled space in a Windsor backstreet aimed at supporting and building careers of contemporary Australian artists.

It’s not just urban dwellings that make this side of the river special, Como House and Gardens is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pull up a picnic rug and enjoy your lunch in this beautiful setting or discover more about this historical property and book yourself in for a weekend house tour.

Eat+Drink

With everything from cosy brunch spots and speciality donuts to cocktail bars and hawker food spend your entire visit sampling, sipping and grazing your way around some of the area’s yummiest restaurants bars and cafes.

Market Lane Coffee is a Melbourne favourite and their Prahran Market location is a top spot to grab your espresso. If you’re visiting on a Saturday they offer free coffee tastings for anyone who swings by.

While you’re at Prahran Market, why not grab a few goodies for the road? With speciality cheeses, chocolates, handmade pasta and produce this is the place to stock up your pantry and sample some top quality local and artisan products.

Brunch is a Melbourne must-do and a popular activity for any foodie. Coin Laundry near Armadale Station is a lovely corner spot in a quiet suburban setting or try the popular Walk Don’t Run cafe on High Street.

As night falls cocktails are in order so make your way to Borsch Vodka and Tears for a drink. Their drinks menu is full of delicious cocktails, infused vodka, European beers and even authentic wormwood absinthe for those brave enough to try it. Don’t forget to grab a plate of perogies (meat or vege stuffed Polish dumplings) to nibble on too. Hawker Hall is buzzing on any given night and it’s no surprise as this popular Asian fusion eatery is a fantastic place to try dishes with strong South East Asian influences.