Huskisson is a mini-mecca for boutiques that embody chic coastal style of cool linens, broad hats and accessories that take you from the beach to the cocktail bar. The skilled buyers behind the shops offer their advice for fashionable gifts.
Babylon Boutique: Right in the heart of Husky, Babylon Boutique stocks a range of fashion brands alongside hot gifting ideas, thanks to the expert eye of mother-daughter team, Glenda and Belinda, for the past 10 years. Ask for their free gift wrapping, and tick another task off your list.
No Blow-outs: Archies Slides are the hot footwear this season, with their arch support and comfy soft material, these physio-designed slides are the status symbol of the summer. Babylon has an extensive range of colours and sizes for kids and adults.
Status Anxiety: Speaking of status, Babylon stocks a range of quality accessories including bags, wallets and glasses from Status Anxiety. Choose from premium, minimalist accessories for the men and women in your life who value understated quality.
All About Eve: Just one of the fashion brands at Babylon that hits the sweet spot between casual and elegant, including denim, linen and basics.
Beyond the Beach Lifestyle (next to Tuna Tail poke on Currambene Street) is a breeze to browse, with a thoughtful layout and light, airy coastal style. Owner Matt Smith told us that extended trading hours till 7pm will be in effect between 27 December and 5 January. But before then, Beyond the Beach and its sister shop, Weekends, are brimming with fashion and gift ideas. Matt has highlighted a few for us.
Frankie Gusti: The Artist Series candles, diffusers and soaps not only smell amazing, the packaging is simply stunning! Each fragrance has a unique design with the team at Frankie Gusti collaborating with local artists.
2LouenHide: a range of makeup bags, pouches and travel accessories are perfect for gifting and come in the prettiest pastel shades.
Le Specs: remember the 80s? This iconic eyewear brand is still turning heads, and staff will help you find your perfect fit.
Weekends by Beyond the Beach, on the corner of Owen and Currambene Streets in Husky, has even more great gift ideas.
Bondi Scent Candles: these popular candles come in five amazing fragrances, you’ll find it hard to just pick one. Handmade and poured in Bondi, these luxe candles are inspired by the energy of endless sunny days.
Aire Sunglasses: make the perfect statement this Summer, with a pair of timelessly stylish Aire from $49.99 for all ages and genders.
Grace and James: candles, diffusers, room sprays and fragrance balls from $20.99, this range is ideal for Secret Santa, favourite teacher, hostess gifts and stocking fillers.
Slow Tempo: Liz Anderson has an eye for style that is directly reflected in her three stores on the South Coast, Slow Tempo and White Earth on Owen Street Husky and White Earth Kiama. Anyone stuck for a gift for a special guy, pop in to one of Liz’s shops and you will be sure to find something perfect.
Gifts for guys: Slow Tempo has a range of Country Road bags, beach towels, travel mugs and drink bottles, with their signature pared-back style. Or update your man’s bar with the Clinq glassware and cocktail range.
Fashion Finds: men’s and women’s ranges that move effortlessly from beach to cocktail hour. Plus shoes, sunglasses and accessories.
Jay on the Bay: renowned for their focus on sustainable and stylish bamboo clothing, Jay on the Bay is the perfect shop for the men on your list. Owners Graeme Crawford and Julian Vyner always have a great range of shirts, socks and jocks in store.
Shirts: a fabulous selection of bamboo short-sleeve shirts and shorts, perfect for the warm weather.
Iconic brands: the quality you expect from R.M. Williams, Industrie and surf favourite Okanui, plus a collection of Tom & Teddy swimwear and John Lennon-inspired casual dress shirts for a touch of flair.
For women: bamboo essentials from Lou Lou and Boody, plus linen from Donna Donna and Italian Cartel, plus standout pieces from Orientique, Gordon Smith, Hammock & Vine, Rubyyaya, and more.