The businesses of Bayside have a beautiful way of turning lifelong obsessions into one-of-a-kind destinations, and @yahav_paris99 is unlike anything else you’ll find in the neighbourhood. What began with an 11-year-old discovering Vogue on a paper round has evolved over 25 years into a truly bonafide fashion space — part designer resale salon, part library, part Parisian couture dream — where high-end fashion finally becomes accessible to everyone.
Tell me a bit about your passion
I am a lifetime fashion obsessee – all aspects of fashion interest me. As a designer, as a lover of iconic labels, fashion photography, fashion models , mark up artists, hair designers.
What started your fashion obsession?
I fell in love with fashion officially 25 years ago. When I was 11, I was doing a paper round and through the universes machinations, one pick up was at a newsagency. That’s when I discovered Vogue which quickly tumbled into this obsession with fashion.
When was ‘Paris 99’ born?
I studied fashion design at RMIT then interned for a major Belgian fashion label for a year. When I came back from that experience began the seeds of Paris 99. Officially opening in 2010.
What was the first fashion item you purchased?
The first thing I ever bought was Comme des Garçons at 15 – a dress on sale. Just to have it. To look at it. To enjoy. It was one of the first things I sold that led me to want to explore my idea further.
What is the concept of your space?
I always enjoyed the thought of inviting friends over for tea and cake and / or cheese and wine. To conjure the feeling of a Parisian Couture house visit – with hours of dress up fun. But with all items at a significantly reduced price- up to 70-90% off original retail price. It is all about making high end designer fashion accessible.
Is there a local gem you would like to shout out?
Maria Leoni from @marleo_etaliae
Let’s support local! If you love businesses like @yahav_paris99 give them a follow, drop by, and spread the word!