A Guide to Dunedin Fashion and One of a Kind Pieces

Chapman is a premium concept store created by Dunedin locals Amy and Tim Chapman. A perusal through the racks will uncover brands such as Juliette Hogan, Twenty Seven Names, Yu Mei, and Zoe and Morgan, alongside locally made jewellery and lush knitwear that will make all your friends want to give you a snuggly hug. Whether you have a special event or simply want some retail therapy, their helpful staff will give you a personalised service and take you through their unique pieces with care. From casual wear to chic cocktail dresses, Chapman’s got you covered.

This lower Stuart Street boutique brings together the best of old and new. Stocking a wide range of vintage and retro items, as well as new designer pieces, Finders Keepers celebrates the odd and unique. A rummage through the shop will reveal carefully selected handmade statement jewellery (most of which is made by owner Taylor), mod sunglasses, cute hair clips, crochet bikinis and outfits that conjure up Strawberry Shortcake vibes, with other influences ranging from anime to punk. Pop in for a personalised service and pick up something special to lift your look.

When you want to look after your wallet and the environment, head in for a browse at some of Dunedin’s stores that showcase pre-loved label clothing and accessories. Collectibles Revamped offers an extensive range of exclusive finds for fashion lovers on a budget, while a short stroll down Princes Street will take you to Inside Out, another cute consignment store where you can fossick for hidden gems such as Karen Walker silk shirts and Yu Mei leather goods. With plenty of snazzy finds, there’s something in there for everyone. 

Pavement is a one-stop shop for all things skate and streetwear in Dunedin. Locally owned and operated, here skate culture meets fashion with diverse and inclusive clothing and footwear to suit both young and old. Limited edition boards and Dunedin-made linen essentials designed by Evie (including iconic balloon pants and pinafores) make for a unique collection of items that will add to both your street cred and your style while suiting any season. Pavement is all about local, with the shop supporting skate teams and events. Head on in and pick up something fresh. 

One of Dunedin’s most beautiful and beloved boutiques, Belle Bird is committed to sourcing fashion-forward clothing, footwear, jewellery, and other accessories from Aotearoa and abroad. Kiwi designer brands on offer include Kate Sylvester, Meadowlark, Deadly Ponies, Idaé and Mina, as well as Karen Walker Eyewear and Fragrance. Owner Shelley Tiplady’s own labels – Danger Birds and South of Eden – bring a range of exclusive, Dunedin-made garments, produced in small quantities and made to last for seasons to come. Always with an array of exciting accessories and racks of high-quality clothing, Belle Bird Boutique is a must-visit on the Dunedin fashion scene.

A hub for all things local and beautiful, GUILD is run by the not-for-profit society Dunedin Designed Inc., bringing locally made fashion, art, and jewellery to the people. Staffed by designers, including two full-time fashion designers, it was made to celebrate the creative work of Dunedinites producing contemporary designs. Amongst the collections you can find tailored and unique garments, cute ceramics, handmade hypoallergenic earrings, enticing eau de parfums and artworks for adorning your walls. Distinctively Dunedin, GUILD is a must-visit for one-of-a-kind designs.

Plume is the flagship store for NOM*d, the iconic brand and epitome of the Dunedin aesthetic. The brainchild of Margarita and Chris Robertson, NOM*d delivers fashion with a heavy dose of wit and a side of darkness. Evoking neo-noir vibes, their sleek and sombre garments with traditional tailoring are worthy of the catwalk, yet suitable for everyday wear. Pop into Plume on Dunedin’s George Street to explore their clever pieces alongside other edgy and beautiful New Zealand and international fashion labels. While you’re there, treat yourself to a try-on of a statement maxi dress or an OG Gothic Dunedin tee – it’s a Dunedin rite of passage.