On the crossroads of Crown and Oxford Streets is a store that marries the unofficial uniform of Surry Hills and Darlinghurst: striped cotton tees, lived-in denim and hard-wearing leather boots. And like a good pair of jeans, the Neuw Denim store has become a dependable friend; it’s the place to go if you need to replenish your wardrobe staples – from a fresh pair of ‘mom’ jeans to a cosy beanie for winter – and it’s highly likely you’ll find what you were looking for.
As the name suggests, this shop sells denim – and lots of it. There are retro styles and skinny, high-rise fits; stonewashed jackets and deep navy boot cut jeans. You’ll mostly find stock from Rollas and Neuw Denim, and if you’re not familiar with the range the staff are friendly and knowledgeable without being pushy. They practically live in the jeans themselves, so they can provide honest advice on sizing and fabrics. Plus, as the store is far from the hustle of CBD shopping, you can move at a more leisurely pace when it comes to selecting the right style.
But denim isn’t all that they sell here. It's been open for around three years, so the store has built up a curated collection of items from a range of their favourites brands. Slip into lacy fabrics from New Zealand label Lonely Lingerie, pick up a pair of colourful socks from LA brand Richer Poorer, or walk out with new clogs from Aussie designed, Scandinavia-made shoe brand Funkis.
The store also sells a few choice gift items. Head to the back for a cherry-picked selection of vinyl from the Clash to Nirvana. There are soy wax candles from Glebe-based company Pigeon & Weasel, leather wallets and shoulder bags from Status Anxiety and sunnies from Pared Eyewear. Plus, gents can have a field day with grooming products by Uppercut and Triumph & Disaster.
Our tip is to take a closer look at the counter, where you’ll come across unusual, minimalistic jewellery from designer Holly Ryan; she creates stacking rings in silver with a certain edge. Plus, there’s a limited range of items from New York-based jewellery maker Miki Tanaka, like a dirty silver skull necklace that’ll put a statement on that indomitable striped tee and ripped denim combo.