Want to nail that relaxed Newtown vibe? Head here
For the antithesis of mass-market disposable fashion, head to this inner-city suburb of Sydney, home to purveyors of unique and effortless style.

- March 2020
Never fussy and never dull, Newtown exudes relaxed cool. Its left-of-centre leanings encourage a wardrobe of neutral basics enlivened with bold pops of colour, inspired by the suburb’s multicultural nature and retro sensibilities.
MapleStore
If you look up the definition of inner-west fashion in the style dictionary, you’ll find one word: Maplestore. This clothing retailer is cool, ethically conscious and somehow laid-back yet sharp. Denim to swimmers, trainers to tees, consider your weekend wardrobe covered.
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Gorman
Step inside and say hello to a print-lover’s paradise. Fashionable and easy to wear, it’s a tried-and-tested crowd pleaser.
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Nique
Creative, contemporary and still eminently wearable, come in for a metallic jacket and stay for a timeless black linen mini-dress. Or fall deeply for simple tees that are soft and fit like they should and the unisex cotton pants.
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Milk & Thistle
This is where to head for elegant simplicity, unique prints and, like so much of Newtown’s fashion offerings, an ethical business ethos. Nirvana for those who pursue considered fashion instead of the fast variety, you will fall in love with the tiered maxi-dresses and volume-defying jumpsuits – all fully Australian made.
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Dragstar
We dare you not to fall head over cute heels with the accessories in this fashionable local institution. Earrings that will make you smile, breezy bags that do the job and retro print hats that aren’t like anything else on the street. Everything is made to last and made to love.
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The Social Outfit
A registered charity and social enterprise whose mission statement is to employ and train refugees and new migrants, this change-making fashion label excels at cool and creative clothing. It’s a win-win.
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Newtown-bound? Here’s where to eat, drink and shop on Enmore Road opens in new window.