A Beloved Perth Icon Shuts Its Doors: Highs & Lows Claremont Store Closes After 18 Years
In a move that has left many heartbroken, Perth’s cherished retailer, Highs & Lows, has unexpectedly closed its Claremont store, marking the end of an era for the western suburb. The announcement, shared on their Instagram page in late December, came as a shock to their 97,000 followers and loyal customers who had made the Bay View Terrace location a cultural hub for nearly two decades. But here's where it gets emotional: this wasn’t just a store—it was a community cornerstone, a place where sneakerheads, streetwear enthusiasts, and locals gathered to celebrate style and culture. And this is the part most people miss: the Claremont store wasn’t just a storefront; it was the birthplace of Highs & Lows’ identity, where collaborations with global brands like Asics and Lacoste turned them into a cult favorite for WA’s fashion-forward crowd.
In their heartfelt statement, the brand reflected on the store’s legacy: “This space has become more than just a storefront: it was a destination for the community and a home for the culture we’ve built together.” They reminisced about the long lines for exclusive footwear releases, the memorable events, and the countless customers who became part of their story. “We cherish the memories of every event and every person who walked through the doors over nearly two decades,” they added, thanking the Claremont community for 18 years of unwavering support.
The closure has sparked an outpouring of nostalgia and sadness. One local called it “the end of an era,” while another shared, “I LOVED going there—thanks for the memories.” A third customer credited the store as the place where their “sneaker obsession began as a youngster.” These sentiments highlight the profound impact Highs & Lows had on its community, going beyond retail to shape personal passions and local culture.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the Claremont store’s closure is a loss, Highs & Lows remains a trailblazer in Australia’s retail landscape. Describing themselves as a “countercultural reaction to the retail offerings in Australia,” the brand has built a reputation for its unique blend of streetwear, footwear, and home decor. Their King St CBD store will stay open, but the question lingers: Can the brand’s essence truly thrive without its Claremont roots? And what does this closure say about the evolving retail landscape in Perth?
The timing of the closure is particularly striking, coming just months after Highs & Lows celebrated 20 years in business. As the brand looks to the future, fans are left wondering what’s next. Will they expand further, or will they double down on their existing locations? PerthNow has reached out to Highs & Lows for comment, but in the meantime, the community is left to reflect on the legacy of a store that was so much more than a place to shop.
Thought-provoking question for you: As retail continues to evolve, what does it take for a store to become a cultural landmark? And can that magic ever truly be replicated elsewhere? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this bittersweet moment for Perth’s fashion scene.
