So you've heard Sliema is the place to be if you want to hit the shops whilst in Malta (and it's true!) but while recognisable high street and global brands are the bomb, if you're looking for something a little different which you won't find anywhere else, check out these great options.
Antica Santoria, Tower Road
Holiday wear with a Mediterranean twist! Antica Santoria is relatively new to Sliema’s bustling shopping district, but has made a big impact with their printed kaftans, fruity printed linen shirts and oversized beaded dangly earrings! It’s also very fairly priced so you can pick up something special for your holiday wardrobe that will remind you of suncream and cocktails long after your visit.
Atelier Arya, Triq Il-Kbira
Newly opened Atelier Arya next to Sliema’s Parish Church has already made a big impression amongst classy locals looking to get that Parisienne aesthetic! Owner and stylist Parys (what a great name!) will make you feel at ease and help you acquire that certain French je ne sais qois! The concept boutique stocks a hand picked selection of sustainable vintage shirts in muted hues, white flouncy blouses and raffia totes, and you’re sure to leave feeling oh so continental.
Sunset Records, Triq San Piju V
Bit of a vinyl head? Then you must visit Sunset Records just off Manoel Dimech street, which used to be Sliema’s main shopping street, doncha' know! Stocking new releases as well as oldies, Sunset Records will draw you in with its tangerine patterned Maltese tiles and you’re bound to leave with a funky printed t-shirt after having a good old music chat with owner Brian.
Fly The Fly, Triq Manwel Dimech
Looking for vintage? Fly the Fly stocks well-preserved pieces and also some vintage inspired numbers for men and women. Owner Maria is a vintage fashion guru and customer service pro and will show you the ropes if you need any assistance! The shop is also highly Instagrammable, and close to Sunset Records, so you can pop in to both for your hipster fix.
Souvenirs That Don't Suck, Triq Manwel Dimech
If you’re looking for a gift to take back home or just looking for something design-savvy for yourself outside the tourist shop offerings, Souvenirs That Don’t Suck is a must visit! It’s a bit off the beaten track, further up on Manoel Dimech Street, but it’s worth the trek for its slogan t-shirts depicting quirky “Malta-isms”, and the in-house designers Te Fit-Tazza stock a range of graphic illustrations available to buy as prints. Perfect for arty interiors types!
L’allee, Tower Road
After you’ve made the rounds round the high street favourites, don’t pass up on popping in to L’allee - a trinket box of a shop for bigger budgets with a keen sense for luxury. Owner Pippa Toledo designs accessories including beautiful handbags and a jewellery range of gold thread cuffs, bejewelled statement necklaces and chunky earrings. You’ll also find unique lotions, scents and candles in store for that bohemian luxe lifestyle.