Aussie rules: from Perth to Paris, why Down Under label Ellery is hot in both hemispheres

Having just returned from two glorious weeks spent guzzling shiraz and gazing in wonder at unspoilt Australian coastline (the latter more than the former), I finally have first-hand confirmation of what I already suspected: the land Down Under is one in possession of unrivalled beauty as well as cute koalas.

I can also tell you a thing or two about Aussie fashion: notably that it is limited, with a large proportion of style-savvy Aussies looking to European and US exports to address their wardrobe needs.

Of course there are exceptions: Zimmerman’s Sydney-based resort turned ready-to-wear label is a fitting antidote to the rails of uninspiring and overpriced chinos and basic tops that is the Australian high street.

And then there’s Ellery, the hottest thing to come out of the southern hemisphere since my friend Kate (of course, I appreciate you’ll have to take my word for that).

The brainchild of Perth-born Kym Ellery, who swapped a successful career as a stylist to launch her own brand, Ellery has earned itself cult status among a breed of contemporary fashion fans both in London and on home soil - as well as the seal of approval from Paris Fashion Week, which made Ellery one of three Australian designers in history to get an official slot on its schedule.

The label, known for its dedication to volume - be that on puddling trousers, beautifully crafted evening gowns or loose-fitting tops that fall off the shoulder - is also a hit with a host of self-styled celebrities including Solange Knowles, who has worn Ellery’s designs to a host of high-profile occasions.

For Ellery, who unveiled her latest collection in Paris last month, the label’s USP is all about creating “modern classics” for a woman who is “effortlessly elegant”, “playful” and “intelligent”. And therein lies its charm.