Some of our favourite independently owned clothing stores in Canberra
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If you are already familiar with Canberra’s independently owned clothing stores, I don’t need to tell you the serious ‘cool’ these boutiques have injected into our city.
But for those who need a quick refresher, here are some of our favourite independent stores sent straight from the fashion gods themselves. These inimitable sartorial havens (and heavens!) are at the helm of breathing new life into our wardrobes—without ever having to leave Canberra.
From edgy underground skate shops and chic designer stores with racks of rare 2000s pieces to European-style boutiques that will give you that thrill of shopping in person that you just don’t get online, happy treasure hunting!
Church Neighbourhood Goods
Walking down the stairs into Church’s new underground location is almost like stepping into another world. The moody lighting, simple layout and distinct echo of hip-hop beats have an unparalleled feeling of edgy sophistication.
Skateboards can be found at the back of the store, while clothing finds itself woven between records, skate shoes and high-end brands. Church’s eclectic collection of loose-fitting clothes is perfect for that elevated, ‘everyday skater wear,’ with contemporary basics, relaxed trousers, Butter Goods sweaters, and vintage tees with a twist. A refreshing change of pace when it comes to unisex fashion in Canberra.
2/34 E Row | church.xyz
Blonde Concept
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Tucked away in Braddon, Blonde Concept is the embodiment of ‘effortlessly cool’. Owned by young female trailblazer and DJ Mia Sorlie, Blonde Concept has its finger on the pulse of independent designers from Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne and surrounds.
Stocking brands such as Karlaidlaw, known for their punk DIY aesthetic, and featuring collaborations with independent artist Lagouda, who combines fashion and art to create pieces featuring soft pallets, sharply silhouetted tops and free-flowing lines, Blonde Concept is giving rock star, in the same dimension as unbridled glamfest.
Blonde manages to transcend trends, rejects seasonality and offers a selection that is truly one-of-a-kind. Naturally, you will be stopped in the street when wearing any garment from this store.
G03/27 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | depop.com/blondeconcept
Goldfinch
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Inspired by the electric and revolutionary style of the 1970s, Goldfinch has spread its Boho-chic roots from Pambula to Kingston, and we couldn’t be happier about it. Signature pieces vary from flowy blouses and bell bottom jeans to earth-toned tees and cords, all matched with accessible handmade jewellery for a memorable look.
Underpinning each garment is the label’s ethical values, with sustainability and longevity living firmly at its core. Yes, you may be tempted to run through a field barefoot while listening to Joni Mitchell after visiting—in fact, we won’t hear a word against it.
Cusack Building, Shop 15A, 27-29 Eyre Street, Kingston | goldfinch.store/pages/location
Honeysuckle and Lace
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This little boutique is truly a nod to what makes Canberra clothing stores so damn special. The brainchild of Maria Wolters, Honeysuckle & Lace brings a feeling of warmth, gentleness and accessible sophistication to Kingston.
Stocking brands such as Magnolia Pearl, with stunning pastel tones akin to the spectrum of a sunset, and gorgeous knitwear from Eribe of Scotland, Serbian label Ivko, Mia Fratino cashmere and Australia’s own Uimi, this is a store for all seasons.
If you are looking to inject some Honeysuckle & Lace magic into your everyday work attire, their blazers from Mos Mosh are unmatched. See you at the checkout?
39 Jardine Street, Kingston | facebook.com/HoneysuckleLace
Landspeed Records
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Yes, Landspeed may be a record shop, but if you make your way to the back of the store you’ll find a hidden treasure trove of vintage garments to explore—each item telling its own story and filled with the character that only comes with having past life.
From mini corduroy skirts, pretty printed blouses with a bohemian air, mom jeans and cute collars made from vintage dreams. There are endless nostalgic treasures at Landpeed, all at a reasonable price too!
30 Garema Place Civic | landspeed.com.au
Things of Desire
If you can’t make your way to Europe to shop, Things of Desire is arguably the next best thing. Tucked away in a Manuka laneway, it’s easy to walk past, in fact, that’s part of its charm, oozing a reserved sophistication you so often find in quiet Parisian streets.
With endless racks of beautifully-made clothes on display, it’s one to take your time to wade through making sense of the ease and glamour, the masculine and feminine and leather and denim skirts. Make yourself at home—you won’t be leaving anytime soon.
Shop 6 Style Arcade, Palmerston Lane | todesire.com.au
