Madison blogs - Ones to watch

With a spring in our step, the girls and I make our way a couple of doors down to Francis Leon where we meet Jo Turner and Katy Lysaught, two local designers who launched the Francis Leon label in 2009. The store has only been open a couple of months and the women, who between them have studied fine arts, fashion and graphic design, hold champagne and cupcake afternoons every Saturday. Francis Leon is all about clean lines, sharp graphics, panelled dresses, vest and structured jackets, all with impeccable fit. As Jo and Katy told me, they have a wide customer base and cater for women from 25 to 70 and, as such, all garments feature sleeves and a slightly longer hemline for a refreshing, wearable aesthetic. Best of all, it’s reasonably priced. Definitely a label to keep an eye on.

Still bubbling over from my denim purchase, Blanche, Josline and I head back to the Marriot for a disco nap before getting dressed up for dinner at Aria. The Brisbane outpost of Matt Moran’s award-winning restaurant is located on Eagle Street Pier Precinct which is also home to a number of restaurants. With the Brisbane River and the glittering skyline providing the perfect backdrop, we feast on steaks, seafood and sinfully rich chocolate pudding – the perfect ending to a most perfect (and successful!) day.

To uncover what Brisbane has on offer and take advantage of great Blue Holidays deals to experience it yourself click here.

- Sherine Youssef