In my career as a journalist, I’ve travelled to regional communities across Australia.
I always think it’s important to support the local economy – especially when they have wonderful boutiques! Best of all, you are guaranteed not to look like everyone else.
Here are five of my favourite purchases from around regional South Australia, and one honourable mention from my home-state of Queensland.
Clutch | The Picture Framers, Port Pirie, SA
The lovely Jenny at The Picture Framers and I spent a bit of time wondering if this clutch is actually a pencil case, but it was just too cute to pass up! I’ll be wearing it with dark denim or a striped dress and red flats and having a, err, whale of a time!?
Magnets | Bindlestick The Store | Jamestown, SA
Ok, so these aren’t clothes, but I like to think of these magnets as accessories for my home! Bindlestick is my go-to for gourmet goodies, and it makes sense for the outside of my fridge to be as delicious as the inside, right?
Necklace | Atore | Melrose, SA
This cute shop is a great example of style in a small town. It is hosted in a room at the pub and opens on weekends to cater to locals and travellers passing through. Ever since my lovely friend Mrs W introduced me to Atore I pop in when I’m in Melrose to stock up on gifts (ok, mainly for myself). This fun Dear Mabel handmade necklace adds a pop of colour to so many outfits.
Ring | That Pony Shop | Charleston, SA
This beautiful shop in the Adelaide Hills fills me with delight. So many pretty things: clothes, jewellery, homewares, shoes. A great place for some ‘luxurious shopping’, if you know what I mean – it’s not budget but the range and quality are impeccable.
Top | Lalt Collective, Clare, SA
If an article of clothing is white and has broderie anglaise, I’m going to buy it. I just can’t help it, so when I found this top at Lalt last week I was sold. Or rather, the top was. It’s cool and floaty, perfect for a South Australian summer.
Earings | Potato Studio, Laidley, Qld
How adorable are these teepee earrings! I don’t think I’ve ever walked out of this gorgeous shop empty-handed so if you’re in the Lockyer Valley, do yourself a favour and check it out for jewellery, homewares and gifts.
What treasures have you found outside the city?
Love, Mrs M xx
There is a great shop in Balhannah in the Adelaide Hills called Living By Design. Some things are a bit pricey so you might need to take out a second mortgage on the house but totally worth it! http://livingbydesign.net.au/
That whale clutch is amazing.
Thanks for sharing, I can’t wait to have a look at them. I found a place in Northam WA called Arctic Glass that makes some cool jewellery make from nature.
I’m looking them up now! X