Liverpool’s Little India is one of Sydney’s best fashion streets

You’ve heard of Pitt St, The Galeries and the QVB — but fashionistas looking for a cultural twist are now heading further west to this hidden gem of a high street.

Known for its colourful boutiques mixed in with south-Asian eateries, George St, Liverpool has emerged as one of Sydney’s most popular fashion destinations.

The booming high street in the city’s southwest is a go-to destination for fashionistas looking for a cultural fix.

Indian-Australian actor Zinnia Starr is familiar with the area from her pageant days and puts George St’s popularity down to its ability to turn fashion into a cultural experience.

“A few years ago I won a local beauty pageant, and it was a stepping stone into the film industry. After winning, I had to travel to Malaysia for an international round and I had to put together some outfits really quickly,” the Hotel Mumbai star said.

Indian-Australian actor Zinnia Starr says fashion helps people celebrate their culture authentically. Picture: Jonathan Ng

“It’s little India”, says actor Zinnia Starr of George St. Picture: Jonathan Ng

“I ran to Liverpool and picked up several saris and lehengas and got them all tailored there. And I knew I could get it all there in one place.

“It’s a little India – your one stop shops for accessories and Indian snacks and after you can go watch a Hindi movie.”

Ms Starr said the rise of Indian fashion in Sydney allowed people to celebrate their culture and religion authentically.

“You need to be able to have access to resources that allow you to celebrate and engage with your culture. As a result, our television screens are getting infiltrated with Indian culture … it’s brought into the limelight more,” she said.

Ms Sharma said Indian fashion was becoming increasingly popular in Sydney. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Former fashion and costume designer Payal Sharma opened her store Lado Fashion on George Street four years ago and has seen a significant growth in the popularity of the area.

“Shops are increasing in Liverpool and I think it’s known for being a little India when it comes to clothes,” she said.

“We have people even coming from Melbourne and Brisbane when it comes to Indian clothes. There is a big community here.”

Originally published as Liverpool’s Little India is one of Sydney’s best fashion streets