'I like the things in Melbourne that are not immediately obvious – the range of galleries, the quality of the restaurants and bars, the support for people who try something new.'

Fashion is a passion in Melbourne. Established labels and emerging fashionistas compete for the same market. Gaining a foothold as a young designer is not easy, and when you have no formal training it is even harder.

And yet if the clothes are good enough, it can be done. Talent, hard work and a fresh eye have transformed Lisa Gorman from nurse to fashion icon in the space of a decade. Her Gorman label is sold in numerous quality outlets. She has six of her own stores in Melbourne plus two interstate and one online. She exports to Japan, Singapore, Indonesia and the USA.

Melbourne loves Gorman – and the feeling is mutual.

“I like the tone of Melbourne and the way Melburnians respect people doing their own thing,” Lisa says. “You have just as good a chance of doing something in Melbourne if you are creative than if you have a lot of money behind you. If you are a restaurant, bar or retailer it is about being good, not just being new, and people are loyal if the quality is there. I have lived abroad and worked interstate a lot, but I know this is where I want to be.”

FAVOURITE DAY TRIP: Lorne. I loved it as a kid, and it is still such a magic place, with beautiful gum trees meeting the ocean, and the Great Ocean Road.

FAVOURITE FOOD EXPERIENCE: Gills Diner is very homely. They serve quality meals in a relaxed atmosphere. There is a perfect wine list, and the food is almost provincial. I love it. (360 Little Collins St, Melbourne, 03 9670 7214)

FAVOURITE NATURE-BASED EXPERIENCE: Dights Falls is simple, humble and relaxing. You can watch the water going over the rocks and feel like you’ve stepped completely out of the city. (Trenerry Cr, Clifton Hill)