Melbourne’s best shopping haunts
Where to indulge in some retail therapy in this fashionable city – whether you’re after high-street stores, high-end labels, vintage gems or market finds.

- November 2018
Famous for having some of the best retail therapy spots in Australia, Melbourne opens in new window is a shopaholic’s dream. But while most people already know about Chapel Street and Bourke Street Mall, there are some fashionista-favoured spots for bagging a bargain that fly under the radar. Here we reveal the best of the city’s bunch, from the hot favourites to local secrets.
Emporium Melbourne
About 270 metres from Melbourne Central Railway Station,
Chadstone
Just 15 kilometres from the city, Chadstone Shopping Centre opens in new window is the largest retail complex in Australia and home to more than 550 stores, including 38 high-end luxury brands and big names like Zara, H&M and Uniqlo. While travelling to and from Chadstone was once tricky, a free shuttle bus now departs from Federation Square daily, running almost every hour. It will also take you (and your sore feet and tired wallet) back to the city each day, departing from the Tiffany & Co entrance.
South Melbourne Market
The colour and chaos of South Melbourne Market opens in new window will both exhaust and delight you. Renowned for its delis, bakeries and fresh-produce stalls, the market (stop 127 on Tram 96) is also home to little gems like Frankie’s Story opens in new window, a quirky children’s clothing store. Keep an eye out for their swimsuits, printed pants and pint-sized socks. Tucked away in aisle F, you’ll also find Clare’s Bears and Wares, an irresistible plush-toy shop (warning: your little human won’t want to leave).
Smith Street, Collingwood
If you were to distil Melbourne’s character into a street, Smith Street in Collingwood would be it. Once you hop off the route 86 tram at Gertrude Street, pop into ethical and sustainable accessories store

Canterbury
Canterbury is a newcomer to Melbourne’s shopping black book. About 12 kilometres from the CBD and a two-minute walk from Canterbury Railway Station on the Lilydale train line, Maling Road is perfect for browsing cool homewares, gifts and fashion. Coco and Chloe, one of the first shops you’ll spy from Canterbury Road, has glorious, eclectic pieces, from statement earrings to concrete bedside lamps. Women’s fashion store Inzagi opens in new window – one minute away on the corner of Bryson Street – is the go-to for hip jumpers, skirts (and the animal-print boots you’ve been eyeing up). For those who aren’t looking for themselves but someone back home, head a bit further down the main strip to B Inspired opens in new window to pick up a Florence Broadhurst pencil set, owl notebook or Papier D’Amour card set.