It's hard to believe it's a hat.

When we were researching Australia in advance of our travels we learned a lot about this island nation.  It has big urban centers, a wide range of arts and culture, grand landscapes, unique and strange animals, amazing coral reefs and we read its people are friendly, outdoorsy, and optimistic. 

Somehow I totally missed the fact that Sydney is also an up and coming style center.  I was amazed to find Oxford Street in Paddington lined with designer shops offering original 

creations and custom clothing.  Evidently this trend is not confined to Sydney as we also saw designer shops in Brisbane including one hat shop that created fashions suitable for British royalty.