It doesn’t matter whether you’re wearing sneakers or stilettos, Brisbane has plenty of unique fashion finds to discover. Here are three of the best spots to indulge your inner fashionista and learn more about the local fashion scene.

Shop at James Street in New Farm

If you’re in town over the weekend, head to the eclectic Valley Markets where many up-and-coming designers sell their clothes before getting their big break. Down the road at James Street, one of Brisbane’s most on-trend shopping spots, you’ll find myriad boutiques including sass & bide. Sarah-Jane Clarke and Heidi Middleton got their start at the Valley Markets before launching their internationally acclaimed label, so it’s fitting their beautiful flagship store is located here.

Nearby, Molton Store has loads of beautiful (and affordable) jewellery and accessories, set off by clever in-store displays featuring crystals and found objects. Libertine Parfumerie sells designer scents rather than designer clothes and smells as good as it looks. This elegant emporium houses some of the world’s most coveted fragrances, and is staffed by perfume aficionados whose noses know what will suit you best. If the store isn’t too busy and you want to learn a little more, ask for a more in-depth look at your favourite using a scent wheel.

Shopping in Paddington

Widely regarded as one of Brisbane’s best retro shops, Retro Metro is a treasure trove of pre-loved designer labels, vintage tchotchkes and fashion finds. Think pretty 50s tea dresses, 70s cork wedges and funky flares, original 80s Jenny Kee off-the-shoulder slouch jumpers and vintage band tees. You can drop into this quirky store every week and find something fun and different, depending on the latest shipment that has arrived. Slip down the hot pink alley lined with brightly coloured clothes across the road and you’ll discover the feminine and fun designer gear at Ra Ra Superstar. Browse vintage pieces and Ra Ra Superstar’s own collection of locally-made, eclectic upcycled fashions.

Brisbane CBD shopping

Brisbane’s CBD is home to an impressive array of designer stores including Burberry, Chanel, Tiffany and Co., Louis Vuitton, Bvlgari, and Salvatore Ferragamo. Most of them can be found in Queens Plaza. For high-street, rather than high-end, fashion, the Queen Street Mall delivers with hundreds of stores. Whatever your favourite go-to label is, you will almost certainly find it here.

Disclosure: The writer loves shopping in Brisbane, just ask her credit card. 

If you would like to know more about what to see and do in Brisbane, check out these great things to do along the Brisbane River, discover where to find Brisbane’s best coffee, or find out all the ways you can get around Brisbane for free.