Around since the seventies, Seafolly is the classic Aussie swimwear brand where you'll be…read moreguaranteed to find something for everyone. Cuts range from the skimpy to the modest, and are flattering to all shapes and sizes. Bikinis even extend up to an E cup, which is great for those with a bigger bust who usually have to contend with some pretty uninspiring swimwear options. This season Seafolly is channeling a retro 1950s vibe with high cut bottoms (for those who are fashion forward enough) and bra style tops. Prints range from soft spots and gingham checks to elaborate florals.

I HATE shopping for swimwear - it's usually a bunch of ill-fitting suits in harsh lighting that…read moremakes you feel terrible. Well, not here! Though the shop is small, there is more than ample selection - from retro one-pieces to skimpy bikinis. The bikinis are interchangeable, so if you need a size 12 in pants but 10 in tops, it's no problem. They have everything from brazilian cut skimpy pieces, to high-waisted bottoms in a variety of colors and patterns. And the store stocks an impressive range of sizes - up to 16 or more. The staff are helpful but not pushy. The dressing rooms are softly lit so it's flattering but you can still see yourself. I actually walked out with 2 new bikinis! (And it usually takes YEARS for me to find something I like.)

The best thing about Swimwear Galore is it does what it says on the can. They carry all manner of…read moreswimwear brands from Seafolly, Jets by Jessica Allen, Speedo, Isola, Baku to Tigerlilly and loads more. They cater to the fitness swimmer, the poolside poser, plus-sized peeps who are looking for swimwear that shapes, maternity cossies, mastectomy bathers, and even aussie flag swimwear for patriotic plungers. Anything you need to feel you are appropriately clad and accessorised at the beach or pool you will find here. And the staff know you won't be excited at the prospect of stripping down to bare coverage and staring at your bumpy bits in the mirror so they will try to make the whole experience as quick and painless as possible.

Buying swimwear is generally a very traumatic experience. It may not be for you blokes, but I…read morealways end up walking out of the change-rooms with a confused look on my face and convinced that they have 'fattening' mirrors... Alas, it is just my body. Swimwear Galore attempt to take as much of this pain away as they possibly can, with knowledgeable staff that can dress you dependant on your body shape, age and how comfortable you are bare-skinned. They have a million and one brands in store so you are bound to find a style and shape that you love - whether you love being scantily clad in your yellow polka dot bikini, or if you're more of a speedo kinda gal. You can also purchase gorgeous sarong's, hats and other beach-bound summer goodies. It's your one-stop-shop for any topical holiday, or if you're just heading down the coast for the weekend.

This tiny store is dripping with bikinis and one pieces. Seriously - I am amazed by how much…read moreswimwear this tiny space can take. Amazed and impressed. That being said it is hard to navigate your way inside and you'll get worried that you've missed a particular label or piece when there is so much to look at. It is also a problem when you are trying to get a hanger out and it catches on to dozens of other bikinis. I just think they need to do something about that because it really is the only thing that needs work in this store. They also stock active wear, making it the perfect stop for active wear whether it's the gym or beach. The service is great, very helpful and efficient. Great labels are to be found inside including Jets, Seafolly, Leluu and more.

Very Extensive range of Swimwear, Beach and Resort wear by leading international designer brands…read more Great service by qualified staff.

Factory Outlets don't sound very sexy and admittedly my snobby attitude has often kept me away from…read morethem. But on an afternoon stroll up Smith Street, the words "Nothing over $20" caught my eye and I had to have a gander. As a woman I have often gazed lovingly at gorgeous underwear from brands such as Elle McPherson, Fayreform and the ever impressive Pleasure State. I have then looked at the price tags and almost cried. But not at the Bendon Factory Shop. The prices here are so low that you almost want to give them more money. Pleasure State in particular can be up to $150 for a bra - for ONE BRA. At the Bendon Factory Shop? 20 bucks. Now we can all afford to feel (and look) smokin' hot in our knickers. Ladies, buy up!

I like beautiful underwear but I don't like the prices. Enter: the Bendon Factory Shop. Down the…read morediscount end of Fitzroy's Smith Street, the Bendon Factory Shop stocks a range of underwear by labels such as Bendon and Elle Macpherson at quite frankly flabbergastingly low prices. As such, queues for changing rooms and suchlike can be formidable but if you're wise and avoid this place like the proverbial plague at weekends you can come away with more than a few bargains without too much hoopla. $10 bra sales and the like are commonplace and you can easily save up to 70% on some very saucy smalls. A quick caveat emptor: there's a reason that a lot of this stock is discounted with some odd - and overly kinky - designs and not the best range of sizes on offer. As such, do make sure you choose wisely to avoid mistakenly returning home with too small smalls or crotchless panties. That said, for eagle eyed lingerie lovers the Bendon Factory Shop is an absolute must visit.

I guess there are many of us who don't enjoy swimsuit shopping, just as there are many who do. We…read moreget to a certain age and shape and the idea of trying on swimsuits is our least favourite task. Today I visited the East Malvern store and was delighted with the discreet yet efficient and friendly service provided by Chelsea, Lou and Annika. They each made my challenge of finding something appropriate and comfortable, a stress-free experience. Thank you Girls! In finishing, the extensive range of swimsuits, brands and styles was impressive. It is definitely a store I would recommend.

The only problem I have with this store is its name. It is way too long and should just be called…read more"Active Wear". Much easier. This is a great place and the idea of combining gym gear with swimwear is pretty smart - it's all about promoting activity and health and when you walk inside and are confronted with posters of gorgeous models in bikinis you'll consider a more active life instantly. Active Wear stocks some well-known labels including the ever-popular Seafolly and Jets swimwear brands. Candy colours, cute ruffles and quite expensive these labels are nonetheless best sellers when it comes to summer. Active Wear also stocks Zimmerman, Tigerlily, Running Bare and Baku. The sales assistants are helpful and attentive, but make sure you are prepared to fork out a bit of cash here. Swimwear is expensive and because Active Wear stock the beautiful and popular labels, you are likely to spend a bit to get your summer staples.

Look for the bright colours and bold fabrics that make Melko such a great find. Even though the…read morestore is tiny there are enough hues and shades inside to make a full pantone swatch. Dresses, skirts, bikinis, necklaces, belts, earrings and rings are all crammed inside and you'll need to take your time to work your way around without missing anything. I personally love Melko because shopping there feels like a preparation for summer. I don't really go there unless it's in the warmer months, and then like a moth, I'm drawn to the warmness and exotic colours of the dresses inside. The bangles are really fantastic and made of materials like resin and plastic, and there are also some gorgeous beaded necklaces. No matter what colour dress or bikini you pick out, there are at least 10 accessories that will go with your choice perfectly. The sales assistants are really lovely, although what with the store being so small, it can be hard for them to help out everyone at once.

I love everything in stock and bought a batwing top and a long full skirt from this fab little…read moreboutique. Change rooms are small but softly lit and the service was graceful. The Brazilian brand Totem is just in time for our Aussie summer. They were also one if the few boutiques open on a Sunday in Howie Place.

Gorgeous little women's boutique clothing store, Laine is a lovely temptation to any girl passing…read moreby. Lots of high quality items that change regularly, it's a good place to pop in and check out some AU/NZ designer clothes (like Kate Sylvester) that you would get a lot of wear out of. Loads from the US and Paris too. It's priced accordingly, but not terrifyingly high end. I lucked out by looking at winter wear when one half of the store was all 50% off and scored myself a nice jacket at half price. The girls in the store are lovely and really helpful without being pushy. Bonus if Winnie the Whippet is in store to have a sneaky cuddle with. Look for her camouflaged in her bed up the back by the heater!

I love this store. I would pop in every day if I could, but alas a girl has to work…read more A very recent , welcome addition to the Bay St strip, Laine is set to become a much loved fashion store for local gals. Stocking everything from Ancient Greek Goddess sandals to keypad covers for your mac, gorgeous clothes from around the world to jewellery conversation starters made by some sisters in Queensland - you will be impressed by Laine. But quality stock is not the only thing Laine has going for it, the other key attraction to this store is the friendly assistance and guidance provided by it's lovely owner, Alyce. Oh and her sweet pooch Winnie is there to help too! There is no website or mailing list yet but you can get your fix of new arrivals from the Laine facebook page, even make an order from the photos for some items. There are items to suit all budgets and styles. Must go now, I have shopping to do.