Championing a free-spirited, laid-back aesthetic, Australian designers have cemented their position on the global style stage.
While many – Zimmerman, Ellery et al – have expanded across the globe, there are few better places to shop for made-in-Oz than on home turf. From hot-to-trot fashion and it-gal accessories to iconic homewares, here are 3 shops to tick off on your next trip to Sydney.
What: Playa by Lucy Folk
Best For: Girly trinkets
Lucy Folk’s blush-pink Bondi salon jostles for the Insta-limelight with London’s Sketch, but Sydney’s It-gals flock to Playa for more than a quick snap. The Melbourne-born goldsmith transforms bright gems and precious metals into bold, geometric neck, wrist and finger frosting, available off the shelf and bespoke. Jewellery is showcased alongside a stash of covetable, eclectic bijoux including playful, block-beaded clutches, sunnies and, apt given the shop’s situ… striped beachwear.
Shop 3, 11-13 Hall St, Bondi Beach. +61 2 9130 3666. lucyfolk.com
What: Mud Australia
Best For: Dreamy decor
Although Sydney ceramicist Shelley Simpson’s everyday tableware is designed to transcend trends, her pretty pastel pieces certainly lend themselves to the current muted palette craze. A now iconic Oz brand, Mud is known for its matte-finished, fine Limoges porcelain pieces available in 18+ heavenly tones; noodle bowls, platters, carafes and vases are conceived with the help of local chefs and everything is handmade in Sydney. Best of all, there’s a cute on-site coffee bar and garden where you can try out the wares before you buy.
1 Kiaora Lane, Double Bay. +61 2 9389 5580. mudaustralia.com
What: Lee Mathews
Best For: Floaty fash
Effortless chic is just an AmEx flex away at this sleek trove of bohemian girl garb. An Ireland-import, Mathews gleans inspiration from Sydney’s art, architecture and nature for her contemporary yet timeless silhouettes. Earthy-hued frocks, wide-leg pants and slips are lovingly crafted from top-of-the-range silk georgette, linen, cotton and canvas, with the occasional floral or polka-dot print adding restrained flourish.
18 Glenmore Rd, Paddington. +61 2 9331 1699. leemathews.com.au
Together with InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, LUXE City Guides has created a series of co-branded guides exclusively for InterContinental Ambassadors and Club InterContinental guests.
For a richer experience of Sydney, consider booking Club InterContinental at InterContinental Sydney or InterContinental Sydney Double Bay. Added benefits include complimentary evening cocktails and canapés at the Club InterContinental lounge and a dedicated Club InterContinental team at your beck and call.
For more adventures in the Emerald City, shopping or otherwise, nab a copy of the LUXE Sydney Guide…
