Mutual Muse Brunswick

Since 2014, Mutual Muse has been selling high-quality second-hand clothes, shoes and accessories across Melbourne’s inner north. Founder Kirsta Hawkins grew up in the US, where she regularly hunted through thrift and consignment stores for clothes. When she moved to Melbourne, she was surprised to find very few of the latter. So she opened up a shop in Thornbury (now closed), before branching out with mini second-hand meccas in Brunswick and Northcote.

Hawkins prides herself on curating an eye-catching range of bright, bold, size- and age-inclusive garments. And it shows. At Mutual Muse’s Brunswick store, garments appear like a sea of colour and go up to size 24 and beyond. On the racks you might find pieces from local labels, such as Kuwaii, Lee Mathews, Alpha60 and Radical Yes, right through to international designers, like Marni, Ganni, Marimekko and Acne. There’s also a dedicated masc section with vintage and contemporary pieces.

The bright and cavernous shop is just as fun as the stock. Designed by Hawkins herself, it’s decked out with pink feature walls, multicoloured velvet curtains, plenty of greenery, rust orange mid-century sofas and artworks from local artists.

Sourcing wise, Mutual Muse keeps things hyperlocal by inviting you to sell your own clothes. You can book an appointment online and bring in your gently loved garments for staff to scan. If it’s a natural fit, you can get 30 per cent cashback or 50 per cent store credit. Indeed, Mutual Muse makes it easy to find new homes for your pre-loved clothes, lessen your fashion footprint and add new colours and patterns to your wardrobe. It’s a win for all.