We break down the city centre into capsule experiences for an essential Sydney stay.
THE STRAND ARCADE
Having survived 118 years, two depressions and two World Wars, the Strand is arguably the most historic shopping arcades in Sydney’s CBD. Three floors of this Victorian-style mall caters to old-world coffee shops and several Australian brands and designers like Alannah Hill, Leona Edmiston and Sass & Bide. Our pick though is Andrew McDonald Shoemaker, for their hand-crafted high quality shoes. andrewmcdonald.com.au; strandarcade.com.au.
QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING (QVB)
Magnificent stained glass windows, 19th century staircases and the stunning central dome are some of the features of QVB that will leave you awestruck. As for the shopping, once you’ve had your fill of all that’s designer, look up kikki.K. It’s a boutique overflowing with beautiful knick knacks, must-have stationary and gifts that are going to make you reach out for the credit card, much more than you had planned. qvb.com.au
OXFORD STREET
For the seriously stylish shopper, Oxford Street is where high street fashion effortlessly mingles with artistic standalone boutiques and home-grown designer labels. Running all the way from Darlinghurst up till Woollahra, keep an eye out for Camilla, Ginger & Smart, Easton Pearson and Ellery.
DARLING STREET
Easily confused for a suburb in the Swiss Alps, bohemian cafes, boutiques, pubs and bookstores dot the charming Darling Street in Balmain. Known for its cafe culture, this is the place to stop by for a breather. Then drop by at Witchery, Punch Gallery and Hunt Leather (East Balmain).
NEWTOWN’S KING STREET
With as many pubs as shops in the area, this place is overflowing with energy as youngsters in jeans and coloured hair throng the area. This is the place to end your hunt for custom-made bags, rare books and buttons at boutiques like Dangerfield. dangerfield.com.au