More than 250,000 holiday makers each year can’t be wrong: Noosa is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.
Often dubbed Australia’s Saint Tropez, Noosa is praised for its beautiful beaches and pleasant climate all year round. Supposedly, the restrained development with a green approach is also responsible for a fair share of the town’s popularity. Instead of high-rise buildings, native forests shape the boundaries of the former sleepy fishing village.
Hastings Street is the traditional heart of Noosa retail. The street is lined with boutiques and restaurants, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. One of the stores situated on Hastings Street is womenswear retailer Belissima Boutique, stocking brands such as Nolita, Twin Set, Sita Murt, Lisa Brown and 120 Percent Linen.
A Belissima spokesperson says to date the season has been “very successful”. “The weather was and still is absolutely gorgeous. The beaches are packed and everybody is in a good mood.” The spokesperson says dresses are one of the store’s bestselling items.
“Our customers go for nice natural materials like silk in bright colours with bold patterns.” With those dresses retailing for $400 to $500, price is not much of an issue for most of Belissima Boutique’s customers.
The women, men and children frequenting Amnesia Clothing on Noosa Drive are, in contrast, a bit more price concerned. According to a store representative, Viola knitwear, retailing for around $20, is among its current bestsellers. Nevertheless Amnesia Clothing, selling brands such as Filo and Diamoda as well as Viola, is equally happy with current sales.
Noosa Junction and the shopping complex Noosa Civic, which accommodates rag traders such as Cotton On, Crossroads, Jeanswest, Noni-B, Rockmans and Youth Culture, make sure that all the needs of locals and residents are well catered for.
With demanding, well-heeled holiday makers, many of them from overseas, Noosa fashion retailers most certainly have to provide constant and ever-changing attractions equalling the offer of much bigger cities. It seems they do so successfully and are being rewarded with good sales.
Location: 130km north of Brisbane
Population: approx. 10,000
Brands: Filo, Diamoda, Viola, Nolita, Twin Set, Sita Murt, Lisa Brown and 120 Percent Linen.