For an awful minute, I thought I wasn't going to be allowed inside this shop. I tried the door but…read moreit wouldn't open, then realised that I had to actually ring a bell to gain entry. I am not sure if this is so they can scrutinise your attire before they deem you acceptable to enter ((thank God I was wearing a lovely vintage leather midi-skirt), but I did find it very off-putting. And, to be honest, totally unnecessary. C'mon folks, it's a suburban Brisbane boutique, not Karl Lagerfeld's headquarters! Once inside the luxe environs (and yes, it is beautiful - and you can tell that they did base the opulent decore on the old-style French couture salons) I was told by the slightly superior shop assistant that you can find everything to dress you from the inside out. There's lingerie, high end hosiery, jewellery (I spied pieces by Ericson Beamon - I'm not sure anywhere else in Brisbane stocks that), bags, and of course an achingly expensive range of Little Black Dresses. When I was there they'd just received some newbies by Valentino). They only stock European designers - although one Aussie label did make the cut (Aurelio Costarella). Needless to say, the prices are not for the faint hearted. Nor for the really young and funky. Whilst the collections are carefully chosen and there are some beautiful pieces, I can imagine it would mainly appeal to the ladies-who-lunch set and the older members of Paddington's "society" crowd. I've given it 3 stars purely because of the quality of the clothes - if you're after a little slice of European chic, you'll get it here. But if I were you, I wouldn't turn up in flip flops and denim shorts...

For a taste of imported designer fashion in Brisbane this is the place to go. I visited to purchase…read moresome lingerie as they are one of the few retailers in Brisbane stocking french brands. If I had endless time and funds I would have found many special pieces to buy that I would not get anywhere else in Brisbane. The staff we're knowledgeable and I felt like they really wanted to help me find the perfect fit for me. A wonderful shopping experience.

I'd always thought this store was a bit "Ascot mother" for me. It seemed a bit middle aged, and the…read moreclothes had a "Melbourne Cup Day" sort of vibe. But walking past recently I was lured inside by a gob-smackingly gorgeous Camilla kaftan they had draped on a mannequin in the front of the store. While I was in there rifling through the rails, my delighted gaze fell upon what was appropriately called a "Goddess Dress". And, yes, it was truly divine - a beautiful, light-as-air, floaty, fuschia and bright orange silk maxi that I could just see myself wafting around Brisbane in. A lesson in this season's colour blocking trend - the Queensland way. In other parts of the store, there's a lot of "formal" styles that aren't my cup of chai latte, but I'd definitely send any future mothers-of-the-brides and bridesmaids here too - the hand woven, hand dyed fabrics are stunning, and the colourways are dazzling.

When I stepped inside this lovely store, I thought I had stumbled across Bridesmaid dress heaven…read more The racks full of dresses in a multitude of colours reminded me greatly of every Rom-Com I've ever seen. When I looked around there proved to be other more casual items, things you could actually wear more than once. The less formal clothing was lovely, but I got the feeling the speciality is really more formal dresses and such. This is a unique store. Every piece in here is made of hand woven, hand dyed silk. Not only do they offer beautiful dresses and other items, they also have a collection of simple wedding dresses.

This brand is beautiful! I actually ended up getting married in a Maiocchi dress!…read more I love the fabrics - lots of Asian inspired prints, and fun patterns like babushka dolls. The cut of these dresses is usually very flattering - they are made for women, even with curves and all. There is always a range of 50s style dresses - lots of A-line skirts, full cut skirts and cinched waists. Very feminine and womanly. It's a local Brisbane brand, made in Red Hill. It's not the cheapest brand of clothes, but they are really well-made and the fabric is good quality. The city store also has a range of cute jewellery, bags and shoes.

For me Maiocchi is one of those places where you love to shop,…read morebut have a hard time PRONOUNCING the name to friends. ("It started with May? errm myoki? maykekekoke? I'LL GOOGLE IT OK") Aside from my dyslexia, this is probably one of my favourite stores to take a gander in. I love the friendly staff and serene atmosphere, the products are clearly high quality and the cuts and fabric hark back to a more traditional Japanese aesthetic. The store also displays a lot of local artists ware's as well, from bags and brooches to intricate jewellery. This would make an ideal place for unique and lovely gift's (In particular lookout for the teaset in the shape of a spaceman!)

For what this store does, it does well. Women's accessories and fashion. It's a little hodge…read morepodge of women's stuff. From clothes to soaps to handbag hangers (this new item is popping up everywhere these days)... this place is very delicate and beautiful. The items are sourced from all over the world - Israel and Turkey as well! They stock one of a kind items of handbags, shoes and little crystal presents for all sorts of ladies. It's not exactly an op-shop for ladies items but if there was an op-shop for the high end ladies of park road, this would be it. They don't store usual brands, but high end ones, items are reasonably priced and you will always be able to find a present for a lady here. Just don't knock anything over, there is quite a lot of stuff in this quaint little shop.

After lunch one day my friend urged me to accompany her to this little store. I have a huge…read moreweakness for unique jewellery, so I was thrilled to discover it, even if I did need a little push in the right direction. This boutique stocks women's jewellery from mystical lands such as Turkey, Israel, France and many more. I was enthralled by the colourful stones and interesting shapes. Along with jewellery they sell other accessories; shoes, bags and the like. I discovered something called the handbag organiser. This is an internal smaller bag with many compartments that women can slip in and out of their handbag, helping keep their belongings organised and giving them the ability to change handbags with ease. I often come home late at night and end up standing at the front door rummaging around for my keys, all the while sure that Freddy Krueger is about to attack from the dark shadows behind me, so I would find such organisation in my bag useful as well as reassuring. The handbag organisers are actually very cute themselves, so I would even be tempted to go without the handbag.

If you've just been visiting and shopping at Adorne's shopping centre stores then you've been…read moremissing out. The label's West End warehouse is a treasure trove of colour co-ordinated home wares. With on-trend copper as you walk through the doors to tones of navy or coral there's everything you could want to add accents of colour to your home. Prices vary but on the items that took my fancy -- all reasonable. So, chop chop. Grab your go card and jump on the 199 bus to Montague Rd.

Cute boutique in the west end. Perfect for gifts, or if you want to treat yourself to something…read morespecial. Reasonable prices. High-quality candle selection. The women's clothes were a little bohemian for my taste, but pleasant nonetheless.

Zooey Deschanel's quirky style, Camille Belle's girly look, Victoria Beckham's structured dresses,…read moreRachel Bilson's effortless style... If if you admire these celebs for their fashion choices, then you'll love this store! When I need the perfect pretty cocktail dress and not wanting to spend more than $150, I'll most likely find the perfect something here. The clothes are so cute. Most in store are dresses and skirts, a mix of girly, chic and modern styles. The colours are pretty and soft- plenty of white, black, cream, pinks, lilacs, salmon and tangerine. Polka dots or plain or even with pearls, there's plenty of gorgeous pieces to be found. The materials on the dresses and skirts are soft and has a mix of satins, tulle, organza. Some fan out like puffy ballerina skirts. and some just bring out the playfulness in its wearer. This girly boutique also has a variety of coloured ribbons and sashes which you can mix and match with the dresses. So, if you pick out a flowy dress which could use a belt, you can alternatively use a ribbon to give your outfit definition. It's absolutely pretty on and the first time I've seen a shop use it to style outfits. Adorable dresses at affordable prices! Every girly girl needs to know about it!

Along with absolutely loving this beautiful store and all of their gorgeous clothing, their staff…read moreare fantasic! The first time I went into Lulu 62 I was so amazed with their service! I left the store feeling great. And every other time I go into their shop they continue to exeed my expectations. It definately tops any of the others stores I have visited. Great service is hard to come by these days. So it is very much appreciated. How often are you left in the change rooms not being attended to, sadly, very often. There are many other things that these ladies do that makes your shopping experience feel special. These ladies have really got it going on. If you need some assistance looking for a special outfit or just every day outfits that are beautiful, girly, chic, cute, Lulu 62 is the place to come to! Keep up the great work ladies!

Unique to Toowong, PINK Fashion Gifts and Accessories is a small, basic-looking store hidden down…read morean alleyway just off Toowong Village. What it lacks in decor and character it makes up for in affordable, fashionable outfits. Looking for a dress, heels and a clutch for a big night out? Then you're more than likely to be able to find it here, and at a ridiculously good price. PINK stocks items from the likes of Cooper St and Mink Pink, with lower price tags than you'd generally expect. The prices range from $15-$300 (they sell formal dresses as well), but have very limited stock, size-wise. But definitely worth a visit to grab yourself a sweet bargain.

Swop fills a gap sorely needed in Brisbane. Where Sydney is peppered with boutique vintage clothing…read morestores, Brisbane tends to have clothing collections mothballed in the dark corners of antique furniture and collectibles warehouses. While Swop advertises that they will take high end or trendy fashion, when you get up the stairs you will definitely feel you stepped back in time. A sweep of the hand over any track will give you sensations of old: Terry toweling dresses, velour pants and jackets, fur collars, stiff gloweave, lame by the kilometre, rustic polyesters (you know what i mean! Polyesters just don't feel that way now!!!) and linen linen linen. Swop is perfection. There will be no mothballed or mustiness here. Every thing is laid out logically and aesthetically. It's uncluttered but well stocked. The men's section is at least a third of the store (speak to any man who frequents op shops... A 1:2 ratio is extraordinary). Don't expect op shop prices, and good on em too. The better run Swop is the longer we get to shop there. I spotted two fantastic condition retro wool coats at $40 and $60, and a classic symmetrical equestrian theme scarf for $20. So again, realistic prices to run their business, but of course they only stock good quality and interesting items. You will find: clothes, hats, shoes, bags, belts, denim, leather. Probably more but I'll have to find out another day.

Really nice VINTAGE clothing just a bit more pricey than I thought. Plays really good music and…read moregreat overall vibe. I recommend going if you're looking for shirts, dresses or hats :)

Previously available only the odd shop, Surafina has now opened the doors to their flagship store…read morein Paddington. As it houses a gorgeous collection of quality clothes, I would expect nothing less than the beautifully designed and decorated store that attracts every female passerby. Even though I was drawn in myself, I was still rather intimidated by the lone saleswoman sitting in the store skimming her high fashion magazine. The clothes are a mix of those that you often see in slightly higher priced stores like this; some beautiful pieces made of stunning material that make me wish I was happy to spend a couple of hundred dollars on a dress for Saturday night, with other pieces that make me sure there is some sort of fashion conspiracy to see just how far they can push those willing.

By far one of my most favourite thrifting events on the calendar…read moreSuitcase rummage is THE place to sell your old wares (or to pick up new ones!) This market is heaving with cheap vintage, bric-a-brac, CD's, DVD's, comics, zines and all manner of art and craft. (I can guarantee you will need to set aside a full day to adequately peruse all that is on display.) If you are thinking of joining as a stallholder be aware that there are some stringent rules in place. For one you can't just mosey on off when you get a bit bored the organisers prowl around and insist you stay put til the 5pm close. NO stands, booths or clothes rails are allowed, everything has to be sold out of a suitcase (preferably vintage, to keep up with the aesthetics.) I've had stalls here a couple of times and can vouch for the friendly, low-hassle vibe about the place. The best aspect about these markets is the range of crafting goods that are available. Ideal for home or to give as unique gifts and all at bargain prices. A definite must-do in brisbane!

It says a lot about a person who can take the drab concrete Reddacliff Place and turn it into a…read morebuzzing bazaar of vintage knick-knacks, home made arts and crafts, second hand clothing and other various trinketry. Yet, on the first Sunday of every month, Suitcase Rummage does just that. From 11am til 5 a steady stream of loyal fans, curious wanderers and first time inspectors wander the markets where not a table is in sight. From the vintage to the modern day - everyone sells from a suitcase. There's a certain buzz at Suitcase Rummage, an atmosphere that I've not experienced anywhere else. With a coffee in hand, friends in tow it is the perfect way to spend a Sunday mid-morning. Prices are ridiculously reasonable (real op-shop prices. For example, $2 for second hand clothing, $5 for jeans at one stall) and there's even tea cup candles hand made by another seller. There's live music and I think if there were a few things like a coffee cart, and a few food stalls it'd be even better. A word to the wise, don't just pass by the stalls thinking you've seen all they have. This is a market where to find the best buys you'll have to get down and dig through the lot to find the good stuff!