Visionary Dennis Paphitis founded this minimalist eco-minded beauty company long before plant-derived skin-care lines were the rage. Shoppers will want to stock up on the gentle but effective cleansers, day creams and aromatic body balms, all presented in lovely apothecary-style brown jars and bottles with scientific-looking labels.

Christine Barro is on every self-respecting stylist’s speed dial. That’s because she has a great eye for the avant-garde and champions lesser-known designers (she was the first retailer in the country to stock cult bag-maker Anya Hindmarch) and burgeoning Australian talents. Christine is all about accessories, so come here to find that special piece of jewelry or quirky handbag from such designers as Jamin Puech.

Claude Maus makes sexy, slightly androgynous men’s and women’s wear that has earned the label a devoted following. Their butter-soft T-shirts are ideal for layering, and stretch denim and mod-ish leather jackets are all perfectly suited to fashion-forward Melburnians.

Melbourne’s GPO (located in the former General Post Office) plays home to both Australian fashion talent and international labels as well as a selection of eateries.

This wonderful indoor produce market is the place to pick up gourmet items, such as hard-to-find Asian pantry staples. The fabulous niche growers, like the vendor who deals only in wild mushrooms, and the curry specialists who create their own simmer sauces, pastes and relishes are worth seeking out. Closed Mondays, Wednesdays and public holidays.

The focus at this hip shopping district is the street-level Albert Coates Lane, home to several must-see designers. Shops include Aesop, Billabong and UGGS.

The fabulous (and hard-to-find-overseas) Australian label goes from strength to strength: shoppers can find a day dress with a touch of punk rock, a gorgeous, body-hugging knit or a showstopping cocktail gown. This is where all the cool girls still shop. The label has other locations throughout Australia.