Maybe it's because I'm a June baby. Or maybe it's because I'm from a tropical country of 7,107 islands. For whatever reason, I'm in my element during summer. Throw a summer dress and sandals on me, and I'm in a very happy place.

Since March I've been slowly building up my summer wardrobe, shopping for those hot days in the city and getaways out east on the island. And what I've been noticing for the past couple of years is the increasing prevalence in my shopping bag of labels from the land down under. What is up Australia? I reckon something must be in the water because the fashion talent coming from this continent is hot and rising.

I have on an amazingly tailored menswear-inspired shirt-dress with a bustier for a feminine touch and a tie front for extra measure. It makes no sense, yet it all works because Melbourne brand Nicholas is known for sexy, clean lines, tailoring and unique details. When they say the devil is in the details, Nicholas must be on a first name basis with him. This is one brand that is quickly becoming an easy favorite of mine. But take a look at the other Aussies that have found their way into my shopping bag:

Australia, ain't no denying, I'm keen on you.