Pickings and Parry

The trend of heritage, turn-of-the-century workwear in Melbourne isn’t uncommon, and certainly not new. But it’s important to distinguish between the trend and those who look at it a little like preservation, keeping the lights on for a vanishing industry.

Pickings and Parry is firmly in the latter camp. Owners Chris and Carlan Pickings see their store as a way of encouraging a more sensible buying culture and a way of bringing a touch of tradition to Melbourne. What you buy here, you can expect to still be wearing or using in ten years' time.

In the deftly renovated store there are early 20th century fittings, brass conduit and light switches that Pickings agonised over. In the back is a two-seat barbershop that will trim that moustache, beard or mop into an era-defining style.

You’ll discover hard-to-find workwear pieces from Hold Fast, fastidiously constructed jackets and trousers from Collective Noun, German brand Pikes Denim and authentic army t-shirts and under garments from Merz Schwanen. There are beautiful knives from Laguiole En Aubrac, stationery from Midori, Japan, and you’re sure to linger over the vintage motorcycle in the window.