Fashion from Sydney: Prints charming

Rodelle Payne, owner of Sisters Boutique in the Mount, is just back from Sydney to report on new trends spotted at the Mercedes Benz Australian Fashion Week earlier this month.

Arrriving at the overseas terminal we were blown away by the hordes of gorgeous, exceptionally dressed fashionistas we saw against the backdrop of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House - Sydney is one sexy city.

As you would expect , the week hosted some big Australasian names such as Camilla and Marc, Zimmermann Kirrily Johnston and Ksubi but, as we found out, there were other up and coming labels to be discovered.

First show was Kirrily Johnston in the most super-styley restaurant in Neilds Ave, Ruschutters Bay.

All the cool cats of Sydney were out for this stunning, if slightly strange, show where the models wore nun-like head-pieces, oversize cross necklaces and floral dresses.

Despite the more unusual combinations, the colours were stunning, with nudes mixed with hot pink florals. A stand-out was the black and shimmer gold bodice.

Manning Cartell was next on the list off-site in the hallowed hall of an old church in trendy Darlinghurst. Waiting in a queue for over an hour is never fun but we met two buyers from cult website Shopbop who gave us hot tips and NYC lingo lessons.

The show music was fun and upbeat; the 90s-inspired hair, makeup and jewellery (navel rings included), lots of white, tailoring and neon pops heading for summer looks fresh and directional - we want!

Ginger and Smart: Commanding the ballroom on the top floor of the iconic David Jones in Pitt St was the much anticipated Ginger and Smart show.

I loved the digital prints and the gorgeous shapes and couldn't resist putting orders in for the summer range.

Sharp tailoring in bold colour blocking, great silhouettes and stunning metallic silver sack dresses.