Not so long ago I remember sending my brother a very long wishlist of clothes that I wanted purchased from Gap on a trip to the US. Mainly kids’ stuff. And I remember being insanely jealous hearing of friends’ shopping hauls at Zara and Top Shop during European trips.
The attraction at the time was partly a case of lusting after that which I could not get my hands on. Partly about knowing exactly what was missing from the Australian fashion retail scene.
With Zara opening in Sydney and Melbourne earlier this year; Gap arriving last year and Top Shop due to open next month in Melbourne, I wondered to myself (as I’m wont to do … about the big things in life!) does this accessibility take away from the allure of the purchase?
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Comments 13
I spent years in the UK and went into Zara and Top Shop and very rarely would I buy anything in them. Their sizing is small and I am broad, and I could never see what all the fuss was about.
Author
Good perspective, Imogen. I’ve only been seduced by some of the accessories so far. And it’s ages since I bought from Top Shop – like half a life time ago!
Crowded messy stores are a nightmare! It would be like buying your clothes at Spotlight or Bunnings. I haven’t seen any photos yet that makes me want to venture in there – boring colours & styles. Very ordinary. Maybe I’m missing something but there are nicer places to part with your hard earned cash.
Author
I do like to shop in a space that is inviting … somewhere where you’d like to hang out even if you weren’t buying. Too much to ask?
I actually still prefer shopping at the overseas stores. Melbourne is close to it but not quiet the same. Zara in Hong Kong, Paris, Bareclona, and NY have this fabulous buzz, the choice in clothing is more extensive and cheaper than here. I understand shipping costs etc are added to our imports but thats what makes it better to purchase O/S – more bang for your buck.
Author
Oh, I love that buzz! And yes, you have to wonder why we end up with higher costs …
Gap, TopShop I can take or leave but Zara? I love Zara. In Perth you have to go up to Singapore for a Zara fix!
Author
And whilst in Singapore, order cocktails poolside? 😉
Totally know what you are talking about! BUT I have been to Zara Australia 3 times now and I have to say that the more I go, the more I love it!! Although living in Brisbane, the allure is technically still there because the accessibility is not…..
Author
Yes, you got me on a technicality there, Caitlin!
Oh no!! wasn’t trying to catch YOU out! Was just meaning that the allure is still there for me 🙂 Bring on Zara in Brisbane! xx
Author
All good, hun… was just having a laugh about the lengths we’ll go to for a shopping thrill!
Oh the thrill of the chase is the most fun bit of shopping!! Trying to work out what excuse I can use to get Dean to take me to Sydney next just to hit Zara for high summer!! Fashion tragic much?!