Dilettante

Cult fashion boutique Dilettante predominantly stocks unconventional international designers. Owner Diana Paolucci first travelled to Paris and got in front of some major names. What she brought home paved the way for brands otherwise unknown and impossible to get in Oz.

Dilettante has exclusivity for the many brands within WA and nationally, but was the first to introduce Rosa Maria, Nehera and Issey Miyake Me to Australia. Others include Acne Studios, Ann Demeulemeester, Comme des Garçons and Rick Owens.

The first store opened in 2006, on Wellington Street in the CBD. It’s since closed down and Claremont (originally a pop-up) is the sole outlet. Drawing inspiration from overseas, Diana worked with Jen Lowe of Ohlo Studio (also behind Chicho Gelato) to design a sharp space that represents Dilettante’s philosophy, brands and clientele.

Dilettante has a local influence too. The space hosts art exhibitions and also mentors one fashion student each year. The online store features “style profiles” – short articles about Dilettante’s most faithful and interesting clients.