Better That’s guide to shopping local.
From funky threads, tasty treats and handmade gifts and home wares you won’t find at chain stores, try shopping local! Shopping local can invigorate your area; support your community and spark some major style cred all while lowering your carbon footprint. Want to know more? Keep reading to find out why shopping local matters.
Why shop local?
It’s eco-friendly: It’s widely accepted that mass consumerism has had a hugely detrimental impact on the planet, but did you know that the stuff we buy is responsible for up to 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions? Simply by buying local, you can reduce your carbon footprint, through lowering unnecessary transportation emissions and packaging. Additionally, mass-produced items are usually of poorer quality, and are more likely to end up in a landfill one year on. Invest in high quality goods from high-quality vendors and both you and the planet will reap the rewards!
Boost your economy: What goes around comes around and when it comes to shopping local, every dollar spent can vastly affect the small businesses in your community. Shopping locally keeps more money and jobs in your area and protects the infrastructure of your local economy. You’ll also find quality products and receive that personal touch often lacking at big retailers.
Stay unique, shop boutique: If you’re finding it tough to look unique, you’re not alone. With ubiquitous chain store giants on every corner, originality can be hard to come by. That’s why true style mavens swear by shopping small- and local. Not only do independent, locally owned stores carry up-and-coming designers you’ve probably never heard of, their collections are usually more distinctive and rare. Here’s to never looking like a clone again!
Better that loves local stores: Across Australia you’ll find independent boutiques just waiting for you to shop up a storm. These are just a few of our favourites…
Why we love it: Soft, feminine, yet practical at the same time, Carolina Lifestyle is your one-stop shop for luxe-leisure outfits and artisanal gifts and home wares. From velvety pashminas, delicate pendants, soft, cashmere sweaters and elegant sneakers and slides, Carolina is your go-to for relaxed lifestyle pieces that won’t break the bank.
Why we love it: If you’re weary of mass-produced clothes that don’t fit the bill, prepare to be inspired by Cazinc the Label, a brand that prides itself on its sustainable, stylish yet functional range that you’ll wear again and again. From sharp, tailored investment pieces, statement pieces and comfy basics, Cazinc’s entire collection also features an extended size range to suit all figures. With a dream team of style experts and a luxurious shop floor space, you’ll fall in love with this proudly Australian owned label.
Why we love it: Full of funky, one-off items you’d be hard pressed to spot elsewhere, Nowa is tucked away in an underground basement behind Adelaide’s Rundle Mall. Designed to draw in tastemakers, this edgy space is decorated with colourful murals and paintings by local artists. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Nowa’s founders ban the use of swing tags on their garments, use ethically sourced materials and strive for full manufacturing transparency. And if you fancy a tipple while you browse, the store also boasts a small bar with locally produced beer and wine. Cheers!
Why we love it: As iconic as it is laid-back, Bondi beach is the perfect location for leather accessories store, Charlie Middleton. Buttery soft and made-to-order, Charlie Middleton’s timeless totes are each hand-made by Bondi craftsman, Ben Thompson. Thompson brings his wealth of experience to create unique, yet simple and understated pieces that will never go out of style. For an Australian made and designed product Charlie Middleton should be on your radar for quality items you’ll love forever.
Feeling the urge to splurge? Take a spin around your suburb or check out some of our favourite local stores online. Discover quality, savings and benefits simply by shopping right here at home.