Why street shopping can be more satisfying than a shopping centre. 

By Angela Hryc – 9 June 2017

When it comes to shopping in and around Melbourne, there are a large number of shopping centres and malls to choose from. However, if you’re feeling a bit sick of crowded shopping centres with the same generic stores and limited places to grab a bite to eat, then you’ve come to the right place. This is your go-to guide for shopping in the fashion renowned streets of Melbourne. If you’re also looking to save money on paying for parking, you’re in luck – they are all easily accessible via public transport i.e. train or tram.

Chapel Street, South Yarra/Prahran

Running across three inner south suburbs of Melbourne, South Yarra, Prahran and Windsor, Chapel Street is most famous for its international fashion, beauty and vintage stores. Be sure to stop at Chapel Street Bazaar while you’re there as you’re bound to find a unique item. And if that’s not enough excitement, there are hundreds of fine dining and cheap eat cafés and restaurants to pick from including Café e Cucina and Hunky Dory. From one-of-a-kind antiques to dainty evening wear, this street of Melbourne screams class and sophistication.

Lygon Street, Carlton

Discover a part of Italy as you stroll past and take a peek at the endless Italian restaurants, cafés and eateries. Located in the inner northern suburbs including Carlton and Brunswick East, Lygon Street sits at the foot of the CBD. You will find popular brands such as Mimco and Country Road as well as various boutique stores stocked with labels imported straight from Italy. If you’re after a vibrant place to go shopping while stopping for a slice of pizza or coffee, then this is the place for you.

Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

This one’s for all the hipsters and those who love to wear clothes that stand out from the crowd. Brunswick Street is well known for its eccentric cafés, local fashion designers and alternative fashion. You will find stores such as Kinki Gerlinki, Dangerfield, Kloke, and Hunter Gatherer. This is a great place to go to get a break from all the hustle and bustle of shopping centres and mainstream stores.

Collins Street, Melbourne CBD

Collins Street is Melbourne’s number one destination for haute couture, otherwise known as high-end, designer fashion. For those who have an expensive taste for fashion, shoes or jewellery, Collins Street has you completely covered from Armani to Tiffany and Co. Amongst all the fashion houses you will find Italian restaurant, Il Solito Posto which is has a great selection of light lunch meals and wine. Get lost with the street’s beautiful scenery and architecture as you travel and discover style and luxury.

Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne CBD

Located in the heart of the CBD, Bourke Street Mall has everything you need in a street shopping centre. If you‘re a fan of universal brands and department stores such as Myer and H&M, this is where you need to be. Bourke Street Mall is a family-friendly environment with something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure you grab a pancake stack from Pancake Parlour to beat those sweet cravings!