As any fiend for vintage fashion knows, there are several factors that go into creating a top-notch pre-loved boutique. You’ve got to know your clients, have an eye for quality and strike the perfect balance between a too-sparse layout and overflowing shelves. Elaine Yeow and her team opened Mio Tesoro nine years ago, and have proven that they understand their South Yarra clientele – down to the last Chanel clutch.
Yeow’s love of luxury fashion began during her time working for Louis Vuitton, and her shop reflects this reverence for European designers. Mio Tesoro means ‘my treasure’ in Italian, and if you seek out this boutique, chances are you’re after a designer handbag. Here, it’s not uncommon to get your hands on quilted Chanel purses and Gucci canvas totes. You’ll need more than loose change to shop here, but you’ll certainly pay a lot less than if it were new. The collection features classic pieces as well as rare bags, jewellery and accessories.