To some, Melbourne is Victoria’s capital. To others, it’s one of the best locations for a chilled holiday close to the seaside, mainly because of its proximity to a few spectacular beaches. But to many others, Melbourne is also Australia’s capital of style.
The city boasts an incredible number of boutiques and small shops, let alone some of the world’s most reputable chains. However, you can find large chains anywhere in the world. What truly makes the difference is the experience in a local boutique shop. It reflects Melbourne’s creative spirit and offers curated collections and attentive service.
With this thought in mind, let’s check out some of the most attractive places if you’re after a unique shopping experience in Melbourne, a mix of both local and international names.
Bromley & Co
This is one of the first stops if you go shopping in Melbourne. Located on Chapel Street, one of the longest shopping streets in all of Australia, this is a mix of two different concepts.
First, you have a unique type of gallery with different arrangements and decorations, not to mention art.
Second, most of these things somehow revolve around homeware. In other words, this is the type of gallery that also operates like a homeware store, so you have a mix of both worlds. The store is linked to David Bromley, one of the most popular artists in Australia.
Every visit feels like an exploration. Some of the things you’ll find there include paintings, sculptures or ceramic elements, among many others. Some of them are modern and minimalist. Others carry a vintage or antique aura. Basically, no matter what you’re after, chances are you’ll find it in Bromley & Co.
Designer Plants
Looking for a bit of greenery in your home or office? Whether it’s for outdoors or you’re considering a green wall in your living room, Designer Plants has just what you’re after. You’ll find green walls, vertical gardens, greenery, flowers, all sorts of plants or planters, hedges, hanging elements and so on.
The concept is based on artificial plants, but forget about the fake-looking dodgy plants you can get in any store. They look incredibly realistic and based on your requirements, they come with extra elements for durability, such as UV protection for outdoor plants. It means they remain vibrant and fresh looking even when placed outdoors.
In other words, you’re about to enter a world of designer plants Braeside.
Even if you’re not sure what you’re after, the local shop in Braeside has everything, so you can take a look at things from a close distance. There’s also a friendly team on site to help with advice and ideas if you don’t know what you need.
Dinosaur Designs
Dinosaur Designs is another unique shop that will surprise you with its variety and style. You’d think the name has nothing to do with the products. You’re wrong! Most of them have an antique dinosaur-like design. Some of them look like dinosaur eggs, others look like shells or even skin.
In terms of what you can find there, most people go to Dinosaur Designs for the unique jewelry. From bangles and earrings to necklaces and other pieces, you’ll find unique designs that no other store in the area can match. Each item carries the signature style of the brand. However, that’s not everything.
Dinosaur Designs also offers homeware stuff, vases, bowls and dishes and even small bits like keychains. Once you’re in there, you’ll feel like decorating your entire home in that style, definitely one of a kind.
Chapel Street Bazaar
This isn’t necessarily a shop by itself, but a big bazaar with lots of stuff. It’s the type of shop where you go when you don’t have anything in mind. The best way to explore it? Simply get lost. Walk in, turn left and right and look around, that’s it.
You’ll find a plethora of amazing things. Most importantly, if you’re into antique and vintage stuff, you’ll find some outstanding pieces. And the best part about it? It won’t cost you a fortune either. It’s a bazaar, not a high street shop. It’s a lively spot where every visit can surprise you with new discoveries.
Premium Chocolate Company
This is one of the best shops in Melbourne if you have a sweet tooth. The name is self-explanatory. Walk in there and you can nearly smell the chocolate. And it’s not just any chocolate, but some of the finest brands you’ve ever tasted in your life.
The shop prides itself on carrying a wide range of premium chocolates with natural ingredients and no artificial flavours. Obviously, you’ll find anything you can think of, from candies and chocolate bars to large tablets and even unique designs and shapes.
You’ll find chocolate for baking, the hospitality industry, certain celebrations and occasions and even bespoke designs to match your unique requirements. What else can you ask for? And if you want to make your own, you’ll even gain access to some spectacular recipes and ingredients.
Furniture Okay
Furniture Okay isn’t the right shop for those who visit Melbourne for a shopping trip, but you never know. Mainly aimed at locals, if you’re thinking of decorating your home or garden, this is the best place to check out.
As the name clearly states it, you’ll find furniture, of course. It’s usually handmade and available in unique styles and designs. You’ll find furniture for the home and garden, but you’ll also find a service to customize it based on your needs.
Quality is one of the main reasons wherefore so many locals stick to this place when furnishing their homes.
Chadstone Mall
Again, this isn’t just one shop, but a massive mall with over 550 different stores to browse. It’s the type of place that takes a whole day, especially if you stop for a quick snack or a meal every now and then. You can explore a wide variety of products, from fashion and electronics to homewares and lifestyle goods, all under one roof.
You’ll find plenty of local brands too, such as Zimmerman, Camilla or Gorman. But at the same time, you’ll also find countless international brands.
If you’re into luxury, there’s an entire precinct dedicated to luxury stuff. From jewellery to clothes, there’s something for everyone in there.
A shopping experience in Melbourne will take days, but it’s totally worth it.
From plants and furniture for your home to chocolate and jewelry for a special occasion, you just can’t go wrong with Victoria’s capital if you’re after spending a bit of money. Besides, no matter what your budget is, chances are you’ll find something suitable.
