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.

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.

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.

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.

I absolutely adore Lorna Jane. I have purchased quite a few items over the years and they have…read morelasted through countless workouts for several years and are still the most comfortable clothing I own. I was devastated when all the brick and mortar stores in the states closed down. I can still purchase their products online but there is something to be said about trying different fits before purchase, especially when you're under 5 ft tall (59 inches) and do not have an "off the rack" body shape. I was super excited to find this store in Newcastle, in fact I nearly broke my neck when I walked past. The sales rep, I wish I'd caught her name, was so helpful and accommodating. She was able to look at me and tell me which sizes I would need and she was spot on. I ended up purchasing 4 pairs of pants and 4 sport bras and I was shocked at how much more affordable it was to purchase them here than in the U.S.

One of my favourite malls. Not just cause its local but cause of design. Large open spaces I like!…read moreI could hang out here all day with friends if I had the time. Great variety of shops, cafes, fresh foods, an Apple store (of course), great food court -where u can get the best duck laksa, and a relaxing out door area to hang, eat or just let the kids play in the water features or ship playground. Hard to find parking on a rainy day cause everyone wants to be here.

The best place to shop at, multiple clothing and shoe stores with new and trendy items, a…read moremulticultural food court, options for entertainment, and options for just general grocery shopping. Most stores are pricier than others however they definitely have cheaper options. Definitely a go to for basic girly needs, i.e sephora and mecca maxima, charlestown is one of the only places in newcastle that has these stores.

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.

What brings me to Myers mostly? That would be sales. I am a bit of a fan of a good sale... to be…read moreable to get something at a great price. I think their prices seem quite normal for the products they sell. And they do have some classy stuff. But take an extra 50-75% off and I am gonna walk in those doors! Maybe even buy something that I don't actually need or want. lol It's laid out in a very standard Myer type way. Easy to get around and find what you need. Most times there seems to be something for the kids to do just outside their doors.. especially during the school holidays so parents can take advantage of while they shop. I do find staff here to be more like cats... they don't mind to be petted on the odd occasion but will keep to themselves and just offer a glance.