Midwest Trader

Inside the dimly lit Midwest Trader, it would feel just as natural to crack open a beer and play a round of darts as to browse through the racks of leather jackets and plaid shirts.

Unfortunately there is no in-store bar, instead Adelaide’s largest and longest-running collection of American heritage and American vintage fashion.

The style is a mix of rockabilly, hardcore and punk rock. New stock is imported from old school American brands and vintage pieces sourced from LA’s Rose Bowl Flea Market.

Rather than knockoffs that try to capture a particular style, Midwest Trader stocks the real deal. There’s just one rule: if Midwest doesn’t love it, Midwest doesn’t sell it.

Owner Kate Tomkins opened the store way back in 1993, when Adelaide was awash with chain stores and predictable fashion. As well as amassing an enviable wardrobe and a 20-year personal collection of Pendleton blankets, she spends her time working with US suppliers to source quality fashion and unique vintage pieces for the store.