Paddington Markets: Chic, unique and quirky
Adored by Sydney’s stylish army of fashion fanatics are Paddington’s community markets, held every Saturday on at the eastern end of Oxford Street, the city’s epicentre of chic.
Paddington Markets is renowned as the place where many of Australia’s most lauded designers got their start. Colette Dinnigan, Nicole Zimmerman and Lisa Ho have all had their creations paraded on the catwalks of New York, Paris and Milan, and all of them began their careers pedalling homemade clothes in the grounds of the Paddington Uniting Church.
Buzzing with trendsetters who come to see and be seen, the markets are the natural habitat of Sydney’s glamour girls and pretty boys. Still, dig a little deeper and you’ll find there’s a little something for everyone here. With over 250 stalls, the markets are a bona fide treasure trove of clothing, jewellery, arts, crafts, homewares, and gourmet delights. If you’re looking for quirky furniture, funky knick-knacks, one-of-a-kind gifts or bargain designer label goodies, chances are you’ll find them here.
True to their original spirit, the markets continue to give a leg-up to emerging young artists and designers. A section of the courtyard is entirely devoted to local up-and-comers, and it’s here that you’ll find unique handmade items by bright sparks who may well become the next big thing.
It’s easy to while away a good couple of hours here, chatting to friendly vendors and browsing from stall to stall. Should you find yourself working up an appetite, there are plenty of stalls hawking multicultural meals and snacks, as well as an indoor café in the church hall. You’ll also find a delectable array of stands selling artisan chocolates, cakes, organic foods and fresh produce.
Posted by Fiona Davies
