Route 66

Route 66 is the original mother road that crosses North America, connecting the East to the West. It winds through beautiful grasslands and wild landscapes, leading to sunshine and – for those daring enough – fame and fortune.

They spent six months on the road through America’s heartland, the Southwest, and the Tex-Mex border, Tina Lowe and Ross Waddington after being inspired by their journey the first time there to bring a slice of Americana back home. What began as a love for vintage treasures soon became the Route 66 we know today.

Born in 1983, Route 66 introduced Australians to authentic vintage American clothing, transforming public perception of secondhand fashion. No longer just “used clothes,” these pieces were cleaned, pressed, and presented as timeless classics. Route 66 became a hub for anti-fashion individualists and lovers of true vintage style — creating a community that celebrated self-expression and authenticity.

The growing demand for rare and bespoke garments inspired the Route 66 team to develop their own line of classic clothing, drawing from vintage designs and traditional craftsmanship. Their ethos has always remained the same: stay true to timeless garments that transcend age, status, and gender.

Following Ross’s passing in 2011, the Melbourne stores and warehouse eventually closed which included most of Route 66 Production but their creative spirit continues to inspire everything Route 66 stands for. Today, Route 66 lives on in Newtown, on Enmore Road, where the team continues to provide high-quality, unique, and reworked pieces that keep the original dream alive.

With Leroi Waddington, their son, coming onboard and taking the business into the next generation while keeping the ethos and original aesthetic alive.

When you’re in the neighbourhood, drop by and say hi or checkout our Instagram & website.