We're super excited to introduce you to The Hiding Tree, Rachel Burke's the latest (and not to mention amaaazing) creative baby! The Hiding Tree’s inaugural spring collection ‘Love Is a State of Mind’ is an exploration of girlhood ambition, nostalgia, and romantic idealism. Drawing inspiration from springtime drives through regional Victoria and the iconic Fleetwood Mac song ‘Rhiannon’, The Hiding Tree captures the beauty of female relationships to nature through the use of ruffles, scalloped collars, organza trims, and tulle detailing. We love the pink dress with the scollaped collar and tulle skirt, it's just absolutely perfect for Spring time!

The delightfully quirky lookbook was shot by the lovely Andrea Jankovic, styled by Georgia Rostanno and of course, directed by Rachel herself. The official website and collection will be launched this month so keep an eye out for more updates on The Hiding Tree's facebook page.

It appears that Brisbane is the place to be in terms of creativity these days. With all of these awesome artists, fresh designers and amazing photographers poppin' up out of nowhere, we're starting to think there's something in the water... and we want some! Yellowcake designer, Rachel Burke took 10 to answer a few questions and tell us about her latest and loveliest collection Paper Dolls Have Sherbert Dreams.

How would you describe Paper Dolls Have Sherbet Dreams?
I would describe the collection as a series of garments fit to dress the average girl-superhero! A blur of ruffles, lightening bolts, spots, and hearts, 'Paper Dolls Have Sherbet Dreams' is a candy-coloured extravaganza from start to finish.

How did it all come about?
When I was 17 I did a musical with a kooky girl who told me that one night she "snorted so much Wizz Fizz sherbet, that after a while everybody started to look like paper dolls". The anecdote had a lasting effect on me - laying dormant in my mind until September last year when I found myself looking through Mel Stringers paper-doll-print-outs.  All pastel, cute, and whimsical, the paper dolls made me think of my musical friend's story, and how strange it would be to wander around in a world completely comprised of Mel's pastel hued, paper characters...and how i wanted to make it happen for real! The next step was sending Mel an email, asking her if she would be interested in working with me to develop a collection based on her art.  Delightfully she said 'yes!' and the ball started rolling from there. I designed the collection whilst on the road in America over the Christmas holidays. Whilst traveling, I took the time to really study Mel's work and allow myself to find little parts of her style in the some of the places I visited - from the pastel houses in San Fran to the overalls girls wore to school in Cuba. Upon arriving home I was filled with inspiration, and set straight to work to bring the designs to life!

What fabrics and materials did you use?
A number of fabrics used in the collection are patterned silks and taffeta's that I sourced whilst holidaying in New York city. Other fabrics in the collection are cotton-based, many of which I hand painted or embroidered to better embody the unique Mel Stringer style.
 
Do you think you'll continue to collaborate with other artists in the future?
Yes indeed! I have enjoyed the process so much that I am totally itching to do it again. I already have some ideas up my sleeve...

How do you feel now that the collection is finally completed and out there for everyone to see?
It's totally exciting! Whilst there are always the initial jitters of what the public response is going to be, I am personally so chuffed with how it has all come together, and thrilled that Mel Stringer is happy with it too!

When and where can we get our mitts on your lovely designs?
These pieces should be heading into Princess Polly stores over the next few weeks! So keep your eyes peeled!