Paddington Fashion: Beginners Guide

words by josh ives

Fashion, like life, is a seasonal venture.

Each season of the year brings with its own unique pop-up of fashionable outfits, in store windows designed to lure us into parting with our hard-earned cash. And despite jaw-dropping prices and frankly outrageous attire (I’m looking at you, Christmas Mankini), it remains among the most consistently profitable markets the world over.

That’s because there’s nothing quite like purchasing that outfit you saved for and looking damn fine at the party it was intended for. I’m speaking for myself as a dude, but I know the ladies go gaga over their shoes. Diamonds may be a girls’ best friend, but a good pair of heels come in a very close second.

Cashmere scarves and Italian leather with price tags that would drain the face of a millionaire. If an outfit belongs on the cover of Vogue, it belongs on us, and damn it, we’re gonna wear the shit out of it!

If fashion’s your thing, there’s one place in Sydney that you’d be insane to miss out on.

Paddington. From high-end boutique to vintage staples, Paddy’s got you covered. Here’s a small list to get you started:

Volange Paris
Described as Parisian chic, this boutique treasure-trove will leave you feeling a million dollars as you sport garments hand-picked from Paris. Created by two French sisters, Volange Paris is a fashion-nest that introduces women to the chic and effortless class of high-end French fashion. With designer clothes and accessories emboldened with such names as La Petite, Francaise, Grace & Mila and Sessun, you wouldn’t look out of place stepping onto a yacht party in the South of France.

Funkis
The results are in: Scandinavian fashion is the latest in minimalistic class and no-one does it better. If you’re going for a contemporary or smart casual get-up, this place is worth your time. Labels include Marimekko, Thorberg reading glasses, Gubi, Rodebjer and Funkis’ own line. Effortless style was the mission statement for Funkis, and they have nailed it.

Belance & The Black Label
Fellas, I haven’t forgotten about you. With styles ranging from smart casual to straight up James Bond, this one’s got you covered for any occasion. Known for its finely curated menswear accessories selection and made to measure tailoring, this is a mecca for style. Got an interview coming up? Or perhaps a black-tie event? You’ll need to look the part – from a huge selection of shaving accessories, classic watches and bespoke suits, the only thing you’ll be craving for is a stiff glass of scotch and a Cuban cigar.

Incu
If Incu were the sun, the planets that revole around it are the brands that you want dress your body in. The Incu universe has, in turn curated a selection of designers to bring a truly Australian first vibe to the stores. With a split between men’s and women’s, usually by placing to stores next to, or on top of each other, creates a unique shopping experience

Had a good long shop? Feeling like a good place to chill out for a coffee and a snack? I couldn’t plug Paddington without mentioning my favourite hang-out Ampersand Café & Bookstore. Grab a seat outdoors with some friends over a Breakky & Chicken roll, or settle in for a private read over a double-shot latte and discover a new literary pearl in peace. You’ve earned the break!