Image Credits: VAN BRUSSEL
“Adelaide Arcade has so much character and history. Walking through it reminds me of discovering independent boutiques tucked away in European laneways. There’s a slower pace, beautiful heritage architecture and a sense of discovery that perfectly complements the VAN BRUSSEL experience.”
Just months after making its debut on Adelaide’s fashion scene, local label VAN BRUSSEL is entering its next chapter, opening the doors to a new flagship home inside the iconic Adelaide Arcade.
Following a successful launch in Ebenezer Place in 2025, the Australian-made fashion brand – created by SA-born Rachel VAN BRUSSEL – is bringing its signature blend of European-inspired design, contemporary Australian style and slow-fashion philosophy into a permanent retail space from August 13th.
Stepping into a beautifully restored heritage storefront tucked within the historic arcade, the new space feels like a natural extension of the brand itself. With Carrara marble floors, glass-panelled ceilings and extra-wide promenades, Adelaide Arcade’s timeless grandeur creates the perfect backdrop for VAN BRUSSEL’s tailored, utilitarian urban-wear pieces that balance functionality with a refined European sophistication.
When asked about what it means to be located in such an iconic part of Adelaide, Rachel explained that it aligns closely with the brand’s identity.
“Adelaide Arcade has so much character and history.”
“It represents the same longevity of output – the building itself has that same sense of permanence and timelessness that I want the brand to have.”
“All the pieces that I put out are built with longevity, no obsolescence.”
But the move also reflects VAN BRUSSEL’s beginnings as a proudly South Australian brand, which remains integral to its identity.
“There are so many iconic businesses and brands in Adelaide, and it makes sense to be sitting alongside that kind of place within my business.”
“All of the businesses in Adelaide Arcade are South Australian businesses, so because I pride myself so strongly on the fact that everything is designed and made in South Australia, it’s just a really nice connection and kind of brand fit.”
As we chatted with Rachel, it became clear that she truly is a designer at heart. As she detailed her vision for the design of her new brick-and-mortar location, it was clear that whether she’s designing a clothing collection or a shop fit-out, the creative process is what truly makes her mind tick.
“Our clothing is built around thoughtful design, functionality and timelessness, and the store follows that same philosophy,” Rachel noted.
“It’s minimal yet warm, refined without feeling precious, and every detail has been carefully considered.”
Since opening in Ebenezer Place, VAN BRUSSEL has received an overwhelmingly positive response from Adelaide shoppers – something Rachel says has reinforced the importance of genuine connection between a brand and its community.
“The biggest thing I’ve learned is how much people value genuine connection. Moving into a permanent home allows us to build on that and create an even more meaningful experience for our community.”
Staying true to this community mindset, in an exclusive to Glam Adelaide, Rachel shared that the new location will feature a curated selection of other South Australian brands within the space – further enhancing the store as a premium retail experience showcasing local excellence.
“They won’t be other apparel brands, but they’ll be other South Australian-made and designed pieces,” she teased.
“I think that will be a really nice addition and continue that South Australian-made and designed emphasis.”
“It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time because I see VAN BRUSSEL as much more than clothing – it’s a way of living,” Rachel said.
And we believe that this so-called ‘VAN BRUSSEL way of life’ Rachel describes, is perhaps best understood through the garments themselves. Designed to move beyond fleeting trends, each piece is built around quality, versatility, proudly crafted in Australia through small-scale production and made from natural fibres, including local denim and deadstock wool suiting. Refined yet utilitarian, structured yet playful, VAN BRUSSEL proves these seemingly opposing forces can exist together – creating a wardrobe that is thoughtful, enduring and designed for a life well lived.
And Rachel hopes the new space will continue to embody this collision of creativity and timeless craftsmanship.
“I’d love it to be a place that inspires people,” tells Rachel.
“Adelaide has such a vibrant creative scene, and I hope the store celebrates local design and craftsmanship, supports fellow makers and encourages people to invest in Australian fashion.”
With its new Adelaide Arcade flagship now opening, Rachel says this is only the beginning for VAN BRUSSEL, with interstate growth, international opportunities, new product categories and expanded wholesale plans already in motion. But for now, she’s got her eyes focused on establishing Adelaide Arcade as their flagship home.
VAN BRUSSEL moves to Adelaide Arcade
Where: Shop 3G, Gay’s Arcade (adjoining Adelaide Arcade), 26 Twin Street, Adelaide, SA 5000
When: Opening August 13th
For more information, click here.
