German designer Ricarda Loecker is fascinated by contrasts. As a designer, she made a career out of stepping over the lines between masculinity and femininity; mainstream and avant-garde; and light and dark.

These same paradoxes define her fashion boutiques. The flagship Subiaco store (the original was and still is in Albany) displays androgynous pieces alongside understated denim, A-line dresses, hand-carved wooden curios, industrial metallic ornaments and striking printed pieces.

Refreshingly, Ricarda makes a point of giving Australian and New Zealand designers as much exposure as more celebrated international labels. Bassike, Jac+ Jack, Nom*D and Zambesi are afforded as much space as global trendsetters Maison Martin Margiela, Mary Katrantzou, Peter Pilotto and Alexander Wang.

Savvy shoppers sick of mass-produced wayfarers and aviators will appreciate cutting-edge eyewear from Thierry Lasry. Innovative plastics from Kartell and metal pieces by Tom Dixon offer objects of interest to liven up any living space.

Despite Ricarda’s high-fashion appeal, its good old-fashioned customer service is the sort other retailers should strive for. Ricarda Subiaco’s staff demonstrates in-depth knowledge across its range and a genuine desire to help. This is one of Perth’s best fashion boutiques.