We met some of the creative minds bringing colour, craft and character to the beloved South Melbourne Market’s aisles.TOON, REMEDY

Hi Toon. Tell us about your stall. Mark and I run two labels under one roof. Remedy creates clothing from recycled materials with a focus on timeless, functional design, while PALATE makes leather goods from offcuts and upcycled materials. Together, we’re all about giving existing materials a second life through considered design.

What’s the story behind Remedy – how did it all begin? It started with the belief that every material still holds value. We wanted to work with what already exists rather than create more, and that idea slowly grew into a design practice centred on reuse and longevity.

What’s something people might not realise about making sustainable clothing? It’s far more time-intensive than people think. Materials often go through multiple processes before we even begin making something, and everything is produced in small batches with lots of care. What’s the best part of market life? Meeting a mix of locals and travellers, and watching people connect with the story behind the work. That’s always the most rewarding bit.SUKI, SUKI MCMASTER

Hi Suki! Tell us about your stall. We’re a colourful illustration and gift stall at South Melbourne Market, and this year we’re celebrating a decade here, which still feels a little surreal. You’ll find art prints, tea towels, mugs, cushions, kids’ dinnerware and tote bags, all featuring my original illustrations. It’s a little world of colour and joy tucked into the market.

Your work is so joyful and colourful – where does that energy come from? Honestly, I just love bright, happy, unapologetic colours. I don’t follow a set palette – I’m drawn to whatever makes me feel something warm and alive. If my work makes someone smile the moment they spot it, I’ve done my job.

What’s one item you’ve made that you’re especially attached to? Everything in the Daisy collection. Daisy the dog was our beloved brand ambassador and truly family. After we lost her, we created Daisy’s Gentle Paws Fund in her honour, with 50 per cent of profits going to the Australian Animal Protection Society. She still brings joy to people, which I love.TRAN, GIFTFULLY

Hi Tran! Tell us about your stall. Giftfully was founded with the vision of creating personalised gifts that blend style and sentiment. I’m one of South Melbourne Market’s newest designers, making colourful gifts and quirky conversation pieces inspired by nature, travel and everyday beauty.

How did you first get into making jewellery? During the COVID pandemic, I started creating wooden earrings and accessories as a creative outlet. What began as curiosity slowly grew from a side hustle into something permanent.

What do you love about working with laser-cutting? I love combining the structure of technology with the softness of handmade art. Each piece begins digitally, then I laser cut the wood or acrylic shapes before hand-painting, colouring and assembling them with bright hues and sparkles.

What’s your stall like on a busy market day? There’s lots of re-stocking, refreshing the layout and chatting with customers. In between sales, I’m often on my laptop drafting new designs.
SERENAY & CAN, AKANA

Hi Serenay and Can. Tell us about your stall. Serenay: We’re a handcrafted shoe brand, with every pair hand-stitched. At our stall, people can choose custom colours to create combinations that feel personal to them. Our range includes barefoot styles, conventional shapes and sandals, all with comfort and simplicity in mind.

What inspired you to start a shoe brand together? Can: We’ve always been drawn to the shoemaking heritage from my hometown in Türkiye, where handcrafted leather shoes have been made for centuries. Naturally tanned leather and minimalist designs really stood out to us because they mould to your feet over time and feel personal.

What makes a really good pair of shoes? Serenay: For us, it comes back to fit and quality materials. A good pair of shoes should support how your whole body moves throughout the day – not just your feet. When the fit is right, comfort, posture and even how you carry yourself follows. Where do you hope someone wearing your shoes is heading? Serenay: Into everyday life feeling comfortable and connected to how they move – whether that’s walking through the city, working or travelling.

RAJA, LUNA & SOUL

Hi Raja! Tell us about your stall. Luna & Soul is an Australian mindful and sustainable clothing brand based at South Melbourne Market. At its heart, it’s a little pocket of calm in the middle of a busy market, where people can reconnect with themselves.

What sparked the idea for Luna & Soul? It started with a question I couldn’t stop asking: why is yoga wear made from plastic? I wanted to create clothing made from natural fibres that actually align with the values behind the practice. What does “ethical activewear” mean? It goes far beyond the end product. It’s about materials, how something is made, who is involved, and treating people fairly. It’s about being mindful.

What’s been the most rewarding part of building the brand so far? More than anything, it’s the human connections and seeing someone leave feeling lighter or happier. What does movement look like in your own life? Movement is medicine to me. It shifts your energy, clears your head and keeps you feeling good.

This article was produced in partnership with South Melbourne Market, a one-of-a-kind shopping destination for creatives, designers and small-batch makers. Take a peek at all the makers on the South Melbourne Market website.