Where? Marais is at the top of a quiet staircase in the Royal Arcade, on Little Collins Street, Melbourne, Australia. It is a shopper's paradise, with everything from high-end fashion to edgy streetwear.
Why? Opened in late 2003, the store was inspired by its namesake, an artistic district of Paris known for its eclectic boutiques. Fittingly, Melburnians consider Marais the store to go to for avante-garde European fashion.
Fashion finds: the selection includes a diverse range of local and international designers known for their distinctive looks. The names change from season to season and current offerings come courtesy of Blaak, British-label Preen, Martin Margiela and Raf Simons, for men. Womenswear includes local designer Josh Goot, Veronique Branquinho and Bruno Pieters. Complete your new look with soft leather bags from Jas M.B., Grecian-inspired jewellery by Lara Bohinc and Pierre Hardy shoes.
The vibe: housed in a Victorian-era building, the store has a European feel, with French panelling and dark wood floors. Cool pieces are displayed like works of art in stained-wood vintage cabinets, transforming the store into a modern art gallery. The website calls it a fusion of 'old world mystery and modern style'.
The crowd: fashionistas who shun mainstream fashion and those who crave clothing that is daring and different. Stylists have been known to stop by for inspiration.