Mutual Muse

The Verdict

It’s the same thing every time: you open the wardrobe and stare at dozens and dozens of outfits, waiting for something good to manifest, like chocolate in an empty fridge. When did we buy all this crap? And why did we think maroon jeans would stand the test of time? Well lucky for us there’s a place that’s working to break the clothing-misery cycle.

It’s called Mutual Muse and they're up to two outlets now, one in Northcote and the other in Brunswick. The idea is pretty simple: owner Kirsta Hawkins only sources pre-loved clothes from people who’ve outgrown them (physically, spiritually or stylistically). It’s a place for Melbourne’s discarded and unloved wardrobe crushes, working on the old-school principle that one person’s fashion mistake is another person’s cargo-shorts opportunity. But Mutual Muse is a little more ambitious than the everyday op-shop. It specialises in Australian and New Zealand designers, with a few high street and vintage treasures lurking among the racks.

Kirsta is always on the lookout for new stock too. So instead of binning that old top, you can up-cycle it and make some sweet cash. Mutual Muse is like the Lost Dogs Home of clothes—a no-waste business model that means you can indulge your fashion addiction with absolutely zero guilt (NB: actual level of guilt may depend on credit card balance).

No doubt about it: old is the new new.  And if you're after more of Melbourne's best second hand or op shops, check out the best right here. 

Image credit: Bobby + Tide