Shopping Then and Now

There’s something special about reminiscing the way we used to shop — from the rustle of paper bags to the ding of a cash register. As I think about how shopping has evolved, I can’t help but reflect on the contrasts between “then” and “now” — and how both experiences hold a unique charm in their own way.

Some days, I miss the slower pace and personal touch of traditional shopping. Other times, I marvel at the ease of ordering something with just a tap. Both have their magic — but which one is your favorite?

Then: The Joy of the Hunt

Shopping used to be more than just ticking off a list — it was an event. You’d plan a day out, often with friends or family, and make a whole outing of it. There was a rhythm to it: walking through stores, feeling fabrics, flipping through racks, and the excitement of discovering something unexpected. Every moment felt personal and memorable.

Local businesses were the heart of the experience. Each suburb had its own mix of boutiques, craft stores, and specialty shops, each offering something a little different — something with character. Whether it was handmade jewellery, a family-run clothing store, or a grocer who remembered your name, no two streets ever felt the same. The charm of these shops wasn’t just in their products, but in their quality and uniqueness.

And the best part? The social side. You’d bump into friends on the street, catching up with a quick hello and making plans on the spot — maybe grabbing lunch or heading to the next store together. Sometimes, you’d meet new people, whether it was chatting with a friendly vendor or getting a tip on a hidden gem of a shop. These spontaneous moments made the experience feel so much richer.

Trying things on, asking for opinions right there, and even grabbing a coffee in between — shopping had its own rhythm. You saved up for something special, waited for sales, and enjoyed the connection with storekeepers who knew your style better than you did. Even if you didn’t buy anything, you went home with stories, moments, and sometimes even new friendships. And that made the experience feel complete.

Now: Tap, Click, Delivered

Fast forward to today, and shopping has become faster, easier, and more convenient. You can browse for hours in your pajamas, search for anything you need, and have it delivered to your door — sometimes in just a few hours. It’s all about efficiency, and the variety is endless.

With just a tap or click, you can access stores from all around the world. Mobile apps suggest the perfect item, personalized to your preferences, and you don’t even have to leave your couch. Want to compare prices? There are websites that will do it for you in seconds. It’s a far cry from the days of wandering aimlessly through aisles, and it’s incredibly convenient for busy schedules.

Even if you do decide to physically shop, today's experience has evolved. Giant shopping malls offer a one-stop location where you can find everything — from fashion to electronics, beauty to home goods. You can easily bounce between stores and get everything you need in one place. And for those who still prefer a hybrid approach, services like “click and collect” let you shop online and pick up your items in person, saving time while still offering that physical shopping experience.

The social side has shifted, too. While online shopping doesn’t have the same face-to-face interactions, it’s filled with virtual experiences: reviews from other customers, influencer recommendations, and live chat support. Instead of bumping into friends on the street, you might find yourself chatting with a customer service rep from halfway around the world — but the connection still counts.

With the rise of same-day delivery and returns made easy, there’s no reason to think twice. Shopping is now about choice and convenience. We can get whatever we want in an instant — but, sometimes, that immediacy comes with its own pressures. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the endless options and the temptation to “add to cart” again and again.

Somewhere in Between

While both old and new ways of shopping have their own charm, I think the sweet spot lies somewhere in between. There’s something comforting about being able to shop online at any hour, discover brands across the world, and have items show up at your door — especially when life gets busy. But every now and then, I find myself craving that slower, more personal experience — stepping into a store, talking to a real person, and enjoying the moment rather than rushing through it.

Most new businesses today live entirely online — and for good reason. It’s efficient, global, and easy to manage. But there are still a few special places that choose to blend the best of both worlds. Stores that offer the classic in-store experience — where you can touch, feel, and try your products — while also having an online presence for checking details, comparing prices, or shopping from the comfort of home.

One of them is Griha Threads and Treasure, situated in the heart of Kogarah. We believe in giving our customers the joy of both worlds. Whether you're visiting us in-store for that tactile, personal experience, browsing our curated collection online, or choosing click-and-collect for ultimate convenience — we're here to make shopping feel warm, easy, and intentional.

So as the world keeps shifting and shopping continues to evolve, maybe the magic is in mixing both worlds — and making room for joy in the process.