Shopping in Melbourne with Accessories Queen Lucy Folk

Goldsmith Lucy Folk made her name with a range of wearable food-themed pieces (think pretzels, pizza, popcorn and tacos). Her latest collection, Naturalist, was inspired by a move to Sydney’s Bondi Beach but Melbourne will always have the jewellery designer’s heart – and wallet. Here, she shares her favourite shops in the city to splurge.

The Best Places to Shop in Melbourne, According to Lucy Folk

Image: Emily Abay / The MECCA Memo

Best for a designer spree…

Cose Ipanema

“Cose Ipanema is a family-run Melbourne fashion institution and one of the oldest multi-label stores in the city. Thanks to its staff, I’ve been introduced to some incredible brands such as John Rocha, Simone Rocha and Dries Van Noten. I bought one of my favourite Dries Van Noten pieces there in 2011 - a vest made of layers of silk - I still treasure it.”

113 Collins Street, Melbourne

Best for streetwear…

P.A.M

“P.A.M is a cult Australian streetwear brand that I’ve been wearing for years. I live in their long sleeve t-shirts. Their graphics especially are always so cool.”

252 Swanston Street, Melbourne

Best for vintage…

Madame Virtue & Co

“The boys behind Madame Virtue & Co, JC and Dean, both have a keen eye and they scour the world for the best vintage. You can find Chanel suits as well as newer pieces from brands like Balenciaga. The store is small but it really packs a punch with the calibre of vintage.”

5 Crossley Street, Melbourne

Best for shoes…

Miss Louise

“Once I step inside Miss Louise, I know I’m walking out with a pair of new shoes. They aren’t afraid of colour or embellishment here – and I’m a sucker for both. The brands you’ll find are the top of the pops: think Chloe, Balenciaga, Valentino, Proenza Schouler, Giuseppe Zanotti and many more.”

205 Collins Street, Melbourne

Best for accessories…

Christine

“Christine is an underground treasure trove where you can always uncover gems. [Owner] Christine Barro has impeccable taste. Expect amazing pieces from Sonia Rykiel, Maison Michel, Celine, Martin Grant, Swatch, Phillip Treacy and Robert Clergerie.”

181 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Best for beauty…

Mecca Cosmetica

“I only shop at Mecca Cosmetica for skincare – it’s my one-stop shop. I can’t live without the Deep Sleep Spray by This Works or Byredo’s Gypsy Water.”

Various Locations

Best for homewares…

Cult

“Visit Cult for designer furniture and lighting. I recently purchased two Gubi bedside lamps from Cult – I love them. The staff is super-informed and even on a budget, you can find beautiful furniture to invest in.”

680 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne

Best for a souvenir…

Pieces of Eight

“Curated by a dear friend of mine Melanie Katsalidis, this contemporary jewellery gallery houses some of Melbourne’s finest and works with interesting artists from all over the world. For a special keepsake, I would pop into Pieces of Eight and buy something by a local artist.”

28 Russell Place, Melbourne