The House of Merivale was an iconic establishment in Australia. In 1955, Merivale Hemmes began by making hats and later expanded into other aspects of women's fashion with her business partner and husband, John.

The first House of Merivale shop opened its doors in Sydney in 1959 and grew to occupy a six-level Victorian building on Pitt Street by 1970, complete with a Thai tea café.

Throughout the '60s and '70s, it was the go-to destination for the latest fashion trends, featuring designs by Prue Acton, Norma Tullo, and Merivale's own creations.

Source: Memory Lane - Growing up in Australia/Facebook

Did you ever shop at the House of Merivale? Share your favourite buy from the store here!

 

[RieTreesSilver]

My sister (all size 8 of her) actually bought her wedding dress off the rack there, very elegant strapless and simple in design. I didn't but i used to love browsing when in Sydney often meeting my sister there for a drink on Friday nights as she worked in Oxford st.

 

[NotNats]

Was always wandering through there on my lunch break - I use to work at NEWMARK Furs in Pitt Street.

 

[vickielle]

My friends and I spent a lot of time in the House of Merivale. It wasn't until I started working that I could afford things. I eventually bought my 'going away' outfit from there. Was no other store like it in Sydney.

 

[52-KID]

I did love that store, but sadly I could never afford to shop there on my 16 year old wages. Sure did love to browse though.