Enter women’s boutique Kuwaii (on Glenlyon Road in Brunswick or Cathedral Arcade in the CBd) and be greeted by a floral fantasia, replete with hanging tea lights, birdcages adorned with bows, and pastel-hued garments hung with car. The apple of owner and designer Kristy Barber’s eye, Kuwaii offers its customers well-cut feminine designs in interesting shapes that will last the distance in any girl’s wardrobe.

While Kuwaii is not an eco-label as such, it does promote ethical design techniques, with garments made locally, using sustainable, quality fabrics including silks, cottons and linens. The label has expanded to include a cute, sleekly designed range of shoes made from stock leather remnants.

In addition to the clothes and shoes, the store also offers a carefully sourced selection of vintage and locally-designed jewellery.