Retail
Parlour X, Paddington
The unlikely home of Parlour X is a 170-year-old former church in Paddington. The space uses the original sandstone walls and stained-glass windows as a backdrop to a selection of high-end women’s clothing. Expect international designers including Alaïa, Jacquemus, The Row and Phoebe Philo, along with Aussie favourites.
The Strand Arcade, CBD
Opened in 1892, Sydney’s only surviving Victorian-era arcade is one of the city’s foremost shopping destinations. There are more than 60 shops to explore over three storeys, with an emphasis on local brands such as Aesop, Rebecca Vallance and Scanlan Theodore.
P Johnson, Paddington
P Johnson is one of Australia’s most esteemed tailors and its original location in Paddington is an excellent introduction to Johnson’s elegant clothes and suits. Its nearby womenswear counterpart, P Johnson Femme, is well worth a visit too.
The Raconteur, Paddington
The Raconteur founder Craig Andrade studied at the Grasse Institute of Perfumery and returned home to showcase Australian fragrances. Notably, his candles are infused with the distinctive scents of Sydney, some of which have been made in collaboration with a handful of the city’s finest restaurants.
RM Williams, CBD
RM Williams’s made-in-Australia boots are the country’s most notable sartorial export. Its George Street shop is a fitting global flagship, packed with thoughtful touches such as leather upholstery and open shelving.
Incu, CBD
Incu is the first boutique to bring brands such as APC, Kapital, Marni and more to Sydney – and it’s still setting the standard. Across its men’s and women’s shops, it continues to stock and find the best international labels.
Chinatown Country Club, CBD
This multi-label retailer is neither in Chinatown nor is it a country club. But it does deliver on its promise to stock a thoughtful range of predominantly international menswear and womenswear. There’s also a small offering of books and magazines, as well as an in-shop café.
Playa by Lucy Folk, Bondi Beach
Australian designer Lucy Folk’s brand originally focused on jewellery before broadening its outlook. Now it’s a lifestyle label whose apparel and accessories are inspired by sun and sea.
Sarah & Sebastian, Paddington
What started in 2012 as a two-person operation – led by Sarah Gittoes and Robert Sebastian Grynkofki – has become one of Sydney’s best jewellers. The shop has something for everyone, from conceptual pieces to minimal styles.
Bianca Spender, Double Bay
As the daughter of late womenswear designer Carla Zampatti, Bianca Spender has built a powerful legacy of her own. At her shop you’ll find classic clothing, as well as garments with a contemporary flair.
