Perth is pretty much the most isolated city in the world… Personally, I think it’s completely underrated. It’s a beautiful place to live, and packed full of super talented people. But, alas, they all eventually leave us BECAUSE NO ONE DOES ANYTHING COOL HERE!
All those talented creatives, gone. Gone to Sydney or Melbourne. Gone to New York. Gone to London. Even if not permanently, it’s something we all pretty much HAVE to do – travel out of this small, summery town in search of something MORE.
I found it this year when I ventured back to my home land, England.
I shopped almost every day, and spent a whopping $6,500 + (insert shudder…), mainly in Topshop and Zara.
So, this morning, I kind of wet myself a little. I heard on the news that Topshop and Zara will both be opening their stores in Perth in 2012. At first I thought perhaps I’d fallen asleep again, and it was all part of some fabulous dream. But no. IT’S REAL!!! THEY’RE COMING!!!
I instantly shared the exciting news with my friends on Facebook, and within 1 hour around 35 people had liked my status, and now, 11 hours later, 49 people have hit that little ‘Like’ button. I considered that perhaps I am just generally well-liked and incredibly popular. I have a feeling, though, that it was actually more a case of an adoration for the news as opposed to the news-bearer (though, who knows…).
So, why is everyone in Australia, and Perth in particular, so obsessed with British fashion?
After chatting with friends, peers and family, and performing a wee bit of research, I think we can put it down to three reasons:
1. Price.
Clothing, shoes and accessories are fairly expensive in comparison to the rest of the world. In fact, most things are far more expensive here at the moment. Customers are wanting more for their buck; more range, more choice, more unique styling options, and a reduced risk of wearing the same outfit as someone else (dread, horror!). And where are they finding it? The UK!
2. Up to date, unique looks.
Everyone has their own style, as well as their own budget. Sometimes we just can’t fulfil both – something usually has to give. However, this is happening less and less with online shopping; ordering insanely good fashions from abroad.
3. Choice.
Plain and simple. Have you been on the ASOS website? The Topshop website? You could literally spend all day browsing through all of the styles they have to offer (how do I know how long it takes? Let’s just say, I regularly conduct a little ‘research’ on online shopping on my days off). Choice is pretty limited in Australia, with variations of repetitive styles appearing in chain store after chain store. Whereas, online there’s a dress for just about every day of the year, allowing for 2-3 outfit changes per day…perfection!
Why is Perth just so darn excited about two of our fave UK stores?
Well, now we get the best of both worlds: we’re open to better choice, to better and more up-to-date fashion, and to better ‘bang-for-buck’ ALL while having the ability to try everything on, the ability to browse with friends over coffee, and the ability to pop in in a haze of desperation before heading out in two hours’ time…
YAY!
To celebrate and share in my excitement, check out my top picks from this week’s ‘New In’ at Topshop.com:
Pyramid Flared Heel Boots
Sleeveless Skater Dress
Marc B Olivia Bag
Tweed Fur Collar Coat
Baroque Bodycon Dress
Stud Bussle Back Leather Dress
Ombre Fringe Bralet & Knickers
Chiffon Mix Maxi Dress
