Who? Melbourne-based designer Alannah Hill's unique take on feminine clothes has made her one of Australia's rising designers. Hill is a former circus girl and her boudoir-inspired aesthetic features an eclectic variety of dreamy lace tops and sequin-flecked miniskirts. These dainty creations are embraced by feminine shoppers who enjoy indulging in their girlie side by wearing floral mini-dresses and demure lace tops. How did it happen? Born and raised in Tasmania, Hill was the youngest daughter in a family of five children. She left home for Melbourne as a teenager, holding down a number of jobs including working at Ashton's Circus, nightclub dancing, waitressing and part-time acting. In 1996, she launched her debut collection. What do the clothes look like? Don't expect trouser suits and pristine shirts in any of Alannah Hill's seven Australian boutiques. She has described herself as a 'pathetic romantic' and her creations are a cross between Betsy Johnson's theatrical attitude and Anna Sui's romantic, hippy-chick spirit. Her signature collection features flirty silk skirts and softly crocheted camisoles in sumptuous hues of burgundy, lilac and powder pink. Sparkles, embroideries and boudoir lacing are also staples. What does the designer have to say? 'I landed in Melbourne from Tasmania at 17 with six suitcases and A$30-$50 [HK$171-$285], most of which went on the taxi into the city,' says Hill. 'I didn't know one single person, and not one single person knew me. I was quite hyperactive and did anything anybody asked of me. I was fearless, brave but frightened.' Where are the clothes available? Alannah Hill is available at Seibu in Hong Kong and Alannah Hill boutiques in Melbourne and Sydney.