Becky Harris
Fashion Writer

Over the past year or so, I’ve kept going back to this one draft and set of notes; a potential article which for some reason, just didn’t feel quite ready. It all started with the emergence of Mink Pink on ASOS; the biker chick racer back vests, the vintage inspired little dresses, the playful and vibrant prints; all at highly reasonable prices might I add.

Then there was Rachel Ruddick, bringing together a wonderful mix of both bold and muted colours, tie-dye prints, embellishment and some more classic styles in her range of accessories. The bags are absolutely to-die-for and her jewellery and cuff pieces are traveller-chic heaven, with leather, gems and crocodile teeth included.

Then, two of my friends decided, one after the other that they were going to go and live there, and I just notice these little pop-ups more and more. See, what I’ve realised over this past year is that karma really is working. Australia took my friends, but they’re making up for it big-time with the wonders that keep being thrown over our way. My theory was cemented today when I came across Lisa Blue, a swimwear design Goddess who debuted her first solo show at Miami’s Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim the other week.

If you haven’t got your bikini sorted yet, or just need an excuse to buy another, I highly recommend this designer. The collection was a calm but explosive projection of colours ranging in all areas of the spectrum; darker yet bold aborigine inspired dot patterns in metallic purples and turquoises, transitioned into prettier, pastel coloured renaissance images on one piece costumes and high-waist bikinis with little panels of lace. What’s more is that Lisa Blue really does seem to have a knack for catering to pretty much anyone- the variety of styles mean that curvier girls can still feel confident and don’t have to go for a bikini, opting perhaps instead for a cut-out one piece and silky sarong.

Lisa’s collection embodied everything that is great about Aussie style- the laid back vibe with most models bare foot (some in kick-ass heels), the aborigine patterns, the metallic finish that just resembled the tranquillity of the ocean, the models were even wearing incredible feathery head dresses. And the last final awesome twist to Lisa Cole? She cares about the marine environment, with 25% of net profits being donated to the preservation of dolphins and whales. See? Absolutely awesome.

The Aussies are starting to take over summer style and I for one am not complaining; they combine the perfect elements of traveller, free spirit, colour and style, just so damn easily. And if you don’t believe me, check out actress, Isabel Lucas. She started in Home & Away, but her breakout role in 2009’s Transformers movie has set her to be one of Hollywood’s young and upcoming, and people are loving her looks of hippy headbands, cut-offs, loose tees, maxi’s and hats… just take me to Australia, please.

Check out Lisa Blue’s collections, HERE!