I have used Cirila's to get my alterations done to my clothing since I moved to Newcastle 2 years…read moreago. I have always got my clothing back the following day and I have always been impressed how you can not tell they have been altered. Its always fun looking through the recycled clothing when I drop off alterations to see what they have got in. I picked up a groovy fur coat which I still love.

Abicus is a beautifully curated clothing and record store for men and women…read more The store is always gorgeous, just a pleasure to browse. The staff are very helpful, but they're also notoriously cool. Don't be afraid to ask for their help or opinion, but don't expect them to bend over backwards to offer it. The clothing is very trendy and there are a lot of high end Australian labels. They also sell Polaroid cameras and film.

A really pretty little shop that offers a variety of different branded dresses. A cute environment…read moreto relax, browse the racks and hopefully find that gorgeous thing that will make you feel a million dollars. They also have a cute range of accessories to go with that perfect outfit. Have any problems and just chat to the owner who is super nice and will help you out.

This carefully curated bits and bobs store is a must-stop on my travels to Newcastle. Perched at…read morethe top end of one my favourite Newcastle precincts, Darby Street, Betty Mim is a balanced combination of homewares, women's clothing, stationery (think the kind you'd find on Etsy or at a seasonal Finders Keepers) and other knick-knacks. I've picked up many a piece of great quality jewelry at prices that make you stop, take a second look and wonder how they could be that cheap ($10 for a pair of earrings). If you're looking for a gift for someone else, a gift for yourself or a gift to adorn your home - Betty Mim has your back.

Just say yes to High Tea With Mrs Woo every time. Why? Because if this dainty store on Darby St is…read moreany representation of someone named Mrs Woo (who I personally imagine to be like Lee Lee Chin's sister) then she's one cool cat you want to spend time with. Mrs Woo is actually the creation of three siblings who have opened this wonderful emporium of clothing, Mast Brothers chocolates, ceramics and complimentary knick knacks. It was one of the first places I made a beeline for on my first visit to Newcastle four years ago and it remains one of the first spots I stop at for a gander shortly after grabbing a coffee at Glee Roasters. The range isn't excessive and you won't spend hours trawling racks. But that's what I adore about it. They've done the curating for you and all that's left is beautiful things worthy of your attention. It's worth following their Instagram to get an idea of just what they're about.

I really like this store. Love the range of stock that they have. Especially like the Donna Hay…read moresection.

Thank you to all of the wonderful ladies that made my unscheduled visit a breeze. I wasn't planning…read moreto find a dress (mainly there to get an idea of prices); but after several try ons I came away with my dress and at a very reasonable price. $200 off if bought that day helped seal the deal. I'm not the girlie, shopping fanatic type and wearing a dress is almost unheard of for me but I really did enjoy myself. Who knew a white dress could come in so many styles and fabrics?! You didn't push me. You gave gentle suggestions, honest but courteous criticism and took on board the opinions of the 3 special women that tagged along with me. I never picked anything off the racks with all of the dresses that were coming at me. I doubt many women would do that but it fit in perfectly with my general dislike of shopping and desire to make the decision as uncomplicated as possible.

HOLY FLAPPING DUCK FEET!!!! They sell the BEST Baklava packs…read moreand saves me a trip to Granvile in Sydney! Apart from that, they have a fantastic range of products which can often save your life and a trip into town. Nice and clean and great staff. Cheers, Emma