Hola Chica

Find pin-up looks with a slap of LA street style at this Crown Street boutique. By Emma Joyce

This store takes its cues from glam 1950s silhouettes mashed with kitsch ’80s fashion. Owner Katie Guilbert first created the Hola Chica label in the UK, before bringing it and herself to Australia (via Vancouver) in 2011. The 28-year-old designer sells her figure-hugging pencil skirts, wiggle dresses and halternecks on Etsy, and now she’s brought together her own clothing line with her favourite independent streetwear labels in her first bricks-and-mortar shop. “My brand is about 50 per cent of the store,” says Guilbert. “I like everything to be flattering on the curves, and lots of room for bust and butts.” Those styles include retro cuts like capri pants and babydoll tops made with stretch cotton sateen in daring leopard print, tropical florals and blush pinks, mangoes and Hollywood whites. Made in Sydney, dresses will set you back between $150-$200. The store also stocks MSTKN Society, Immaculate and Taylor Says but the standout statement jewellery from LA brand Honey B Gold is the most eye-catching. Priced at $50-$70, it reminds us of ear-candy that Rihanna would sport when she’s feeling particularly badass. “A lot of people comment that you can’t get these big crazy earrings anywhere else.”

Hola Chica 263 Crown St, Darlinghurst 2010. 02 9331 1143. holachicaboutique. com. Tue, Wed & Fri 10.30am-6pm; Thu 10.30am8pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 11am5pm.

“I like lots of room for bust and butts”

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