Regional Shopping Guide: Stores to support in rural areas
NEW STORES AND ONLINE BUSINESSES ARE POPPING UP AROUND THE COUNTRY, PROVING RURAL AREAS ARE RESILIENT, RESOURCEFUL AND CREATIVE.
In launching her own label, Loomes, Angie’s vision was to create a sort of counterculture to fast fashion.
TASMANIA Nicole Viney Jewellery
Some might say that jeweller Nicole Viney manifested her dream store into reality. She describes a strong vision of moving her studio at home into a shopfront in the beachside destination of Ulverstone. “I visualised how it was going to look and how it was going to feel opening my store each morning, and then I progressively took steps to make that happen.” We’re certain plenty of hard work and talent went into the mix, too, but sure enough, Nicole Viney Jewellery became a permanent fixture in the town after an overwhelming response to her Christmas pop-up in 2018. The shop has an earthy, natural feel and a seasonally changing window display that’s loved by locals and tourists. Nicole’s unique designs draw on Tasmania’s shells and native flora for inspiration. Current collections include earrings, rings and necklaces adorned with freshwater pearls and other gemstones, available in sterling silver, yellow gold and rose gold. Along with creating these intricate treasures, Nicole runs a bespoke design and remodelling service at the studio. “Clients travel from all over Tasmania to have jewellery designed and redesigned,” she says. “There’s nothing more rewarding than bringing a dated heirloom piece back to life in a style that reflects my client, that they can cherish wearing every day.” Online consultations are also available via the website’s booking system. 59 Reiby Street, Ulverstone, 0417 624 418, nicolevineyjewellery.com.au
WESTERN AUSTRALIA Tide & Co
If you’ve been to the town of Esperance, on the southern edge of WA, you’ll know it’s an extra-special slice of paradise. White sands are met by turquoise waves and wildflowers grow along the rugged coastline, many native to the area. Longtime local Bronte Vincent is the impressive creator of monthly magazine Esperance Tide. “The magazine is free and guides you through all the town has to offer, with features on businesses, things to do, community initiatives, events and more,” Bronte says. Tide & Co, her sunny 1920s shopfront located one street back from the esplanade, began as a vision to sell Esperance Tide merchandise, as well as photographs by Bronte’s sister, Lucy. “As the store grew, we started to sell beachwares such as travel rugs, umbrellas, towels, sunscreen and more, as well as stocking a range of preloved goods in our backroom, called The Garage,” Bronte says. Original T-shirts, jumpers, hats and more boast Esperance-inspired artwork by Jack Miers and have a loyal following. Bronte has a knack for sourcing on-trend summer essentials in earthy tones. We especially love the Winki Zinc sticks, and umbrellas by Business & Pleasure Co. Shop instore (on your way to the beautiful beaches), or online. 54 Dempster Street, Esperance, tideandco.com.au
ONLINE Loomes
Creative director Angela Forster Loomes operates her eponymous fashion label from her private studio in South Golden Beach, just north of Brunswick Heads. The lush area surrounding Byron Bay is known for its bohemian spirit, eliciting visions of floaty dresses and paisley prints. In contrast, Angie’s aesthetic is minimal and refined, though she does take inspiration from the movement in her approach to clothes – buying less (but better), repairing and repurposing. In launching her own label, Angie’s vision was to create a sort of counterculture to fast fashion. “I wanted to conceptualise a truly sustainable clothing brand from a textile, manufacturing and packaging perspective, but also to incorporate a philosophy for having less,” she explains. Angie describes Loomes’ ideology as: “Opposite to the mentality of wanting a new outfit in every photo on your Instagram feed … or never wanting to be seen wearing the same thing. We believe it’s cool to wear the same thing constantly!” Referencing the concept of R. M. Williams boots being resoled, or a pair of Levi’s being patched, she adds, “Our grandparents had this attitude – we just lost our way when fast fashion took over.” Refreshingly, Angie not only walks this talk – she lives and breathes her craft. Loomes’ classic designs are wardrobe essentials with a modern, luxurious feel, often in neutral tones, made from organic fibres and high-quality silks that have been botanically dyed. “I also have some 100 per cent handmade styles – handspun, then handwoven on a loom, then hand-sewn. I love that concept; it’s the slowest fashion,” Angie says. The signature Loomes slip dress can be worn day-to-night between the bedroom, beach or a black-tie event, and the silk bralettes, with no-clip closure at the back and two shell buttons at the front, are immaculately designed. >
When asked about their cult-like status, Angie humbly responds, “I guess there was a hole in the market. I could never find anything like that, so I made them for myself.” We love the Basquiat ribbed singlet, created using upcycled cotton from men’s tanks, and eagerly await a new swimwear collection made from twice-recycled Italian fabric offcuts patched into two bikini styles and a one-piece option. Follow along on social media for information on Angie’s popular mending nights, as well as her quest to create her own black botanical dye. loomes.co
NEW SOUTH WALES The Marsden St General
The creators of Boorowa’s beloved Pantry on Pudman have worked their magic once again, this time around the corner on the town’s charming main street. Isabel Gorham and Toyha Williams Johnson have converted the former butcher’s shop into a smart providore and cafe. The Marsden St General stocks a fine selection of gourmet goods that were previously tricky to find in the rural area. Cheeses, charcuterie, artisan pastas and take-home meals are on offer, along with a small range of beautiful homewares and lifestyle books. It’s also just the spot to pick up small-batch sweet treats or jars of preserves on your way to your country hosts. The sophisticated space has been artfully fitted out with a sensitive approach. “As it’s an iconic local building, we tried to keep the original aesthetic, paying homage to its original and loved owners, while making it modern, fresh and clean,” Toyha says. Exposed brick, textured tiles and a moody palette provide layers of subtle interest, while a mix of provincial and contemporary furniture ensures the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Customers can sit inside or out to enjoy coffee and house-baked treats (think Portuguese tarts, hummingbird cake and spiced carrot cupcakes), or peruse the shelves for items like local Walsh’s Country Kitchen jams and chutneys, Snowy Mountains Trout, Pialligo Estate Smokehouse meats and Bramble & Hedge nougats.
A light lunch is also available, made with produce available in store. Toyha assures us a range of hampers is coming soon to the website, so if you’re not nearby you can order and sample these delights from home or send them direct to your favourite people.
25 Marsden Street, Boorowa, themarsdenstgeneral.com.au
VICTORIA Greystones Antiques
The beautiful Victorian High Country has plenty of retail gems among its various towns, making it a great year-round destination to explore
– even if hitting the slopes or hiking in the hills is not your thing. Myrtleford is one of these lovely locales, and a stand-out store in the village is Greystones Antiques. Owner Stephanie Tribe has developed a keen sense for sourcing preloved pieces. As the daughter of avid antiques collectors, she’s been buying and selling since she was a teenager. She brings a refreshing approach to the business, perhaps necessary in the changing landscape. Stephanie tells us, “When I opened, I was well aware of the fact that many antiques stores had recently closed down. I tried to do something different. Rather than be a purist, only stocking a certain type of furniture and decorative art, I decided to mix it up.” Stephanie is conscious that not everyone is looking for a rare showpiece or heirloom treasure, so she buys to suit every budget, prioritising history and character. The store has an eclectic feel but it’s also fresh, spacious and clean, which means browsing is a pleasure. Retro tunes can be heard throughout and it’s a delight to see shoppers enjoying the music. As Stephanie says of her diverse clientele, “They often comment as they leave that they had such a nice time, which is exactly what I hope for.” Whether a Georgian hall table takes your fancy, a 1960s coffee table catches your eye, or a modern piece of hand-blown glassware floats your boat, the experience of discovering it here is sure to bring joy. Don’t miss the racks of vintage designer clothing, couture dresses and luxury accessories (also available online), plus an expanding range of menswear, including classic cufflinks and watches which make wonderful gifts. 82-84 Myrtle Street, Myrtleford, greystones.com.au