Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Melbourne Black
One constant in Melbourne fashion is colour, or lack of it. You'll not go long without hear-
ing mention of 'Melbourne black', and it's true that inky shades are worn not just during
the cold months but right through the hottest days of summer. Perhaps it's because black
somehow suits the soft light and often grey days, or maybe it's the subliminal influence of
the city's moody bluestone. Some muse that it's the long-lingering fallout of the explosive
1980s postpunk scene or southern European immigration. The fact remains that black
clothes sell far better here than in any other city in the country. In Melbourne, black is al-
ways the new black.
WHERE TO SHOP?
The city has national and international chains spread out over Bourke, Swanston and Collins Sts, as well as the city
malls of Melbourne Central, QV, GPO, Australia on Collins St, Spencer St and South Wharf. Smaller retailers and
design workshops inhabit the laneways as well as the vertical villages of Curtin House and the Nicholas Building.
Flinders Lane and the arcades and laneways that feed into it are particularly blessed. A strip of Little Collins head-
ing north from Swanston is dedicated to sartorially savvy gentlemen, while the length of leafy Collins St is lined
with luxury retailers.
Chapel St, South Yarra, has all the chains and classic Australian names, as well as some edgier designers once
you hit Prahran. Up the hill, head to Hawksburn Village or High St, Armadale, for fashion-forward labels, super-
stylish children's clothes and homewares. You'll find streetwear in Greville St, Prahran, and in Windsor; the latter
is also good for vintage shopping.
In the north, Lygon St, Carlton, has some great small shops specialising in European tailoring and local talent.
Brunswick St, Fitzroy, has streetwear and vintage shops, and pulses with the energy of young designers, particu-
larly in stores such as the legendary Fat. Gertrude St, Fitzroy, mixes vintage with many of the city's most sought-
after innovators, as well as some up-and-coming menswear names, art-supply shops and vintage furniture.
