Speak of Belinda Fairbanks and printed silk dresses spring to mind. It was six years ago that Fairbanks established her label and her name. However, this season she showcases her new label "Children of the Sun" and shares her love for an Australian summer.

When did you realize that design and fashion is the industry for you?

I actually just fell into it with Belinda Fairbanks [initial label] but its really only now that I am doing surf that I feel completely comfortable with the industry.

There appears to be a consensus in society that fashion is difficult industry to break into. Did someone open a door for you, or did you make your own luck?

When I began designing it was a different story, there weren't as many young designers starting out so the industry on a whole was more willing to look at new things as opposed to today's I think that there are so many fresh young designers out there that the competition is fierce.

Has it been a long road from when you started to where you stand today?

It has been a very enjoyable road of ups and downs and since I was never trained I have learnt so much along the way, not only in design but also business. The most challenging part for me was the whole business side of things. It's such a necessity to be on top of it and unfortunately if you are a creative person it' not normally something that comes naturally.

If you could change something about the way your Fashion journey has traveled so far, what would it be?

I would have more money and more time to spend with my kids!

What inspired you to turn your love for the beach and the Australian lifestyle into a label/new collection?

The surf industry is something that I have always been attracted to. I think I always knew I would go down this road [because] it just seemed so natural to combine my love of design and my love of the beach.

What is your favourite piece of the "Children of the Sun" Winter Collection?

I would have to say the Flannel shirt dress .It's so sexy!

And finally fashion is...

Someone that is 100% comfortable with themselves and how they look.

For further information and stockists 

www.belindafairbanks.com.au