Are Australians still beach mad? How is the face of the average Aussie changing? In our 2014 / 2015 cultural snapshot of Australia, we demystify cultural myths, shed light on the country’s economic outlook, and explore the emerging and established trends across eleven sectors.

In just five years, Shoes of Prey customers have personalised over 10 million pairs of shoes, from ballet flats to gladiator heels, and annual revenue is nearing $10 million AUD. But what makes designing your own pair of snakeskin peep-toe wedges so appealing to Australian women?

Supportive online beauty communities like How to be a Redhead are changing how young women see themselves and the products they buy. With over 100,000 followers and major brands queuing up for the 'Redhead Friendly' rating, could this be the most successful beauty tribe of all?

Online beauty start-up Julep is an internet phenomenon, targeting women of all ages who are genuinely passionate about beauty products and want their opinions and expertise to count. But what’s attracting so many women to sign up?

Digitisation is helping brands and their customers communicate, forming narratives and relationships. Whether it's Netflix taking its viewers to prom, or Anchorman's Ron Burgundy reading the regional news, brands are manifesting in the real world, disguised as human beings.

Australian women’s fashion retailer Sass & Bide launched its Spring 2014 campaign with the world’s first interactive, shoppable ‘3D’ advert, FREETOWN. But as digital and luxury continue to merge, will it dilute or magnify exclusivity?

Since 2011, Dolls Kill’s candy-coloured rebellious clothing has proved a hit with the Tumblr set, with sales reaching $7.5 million in 2013. But how has this brand managed to sell ‘bad acid trip’-inspired miniskirts by the bucket-load without any traditional marketing?

One in ten women can’t go a day without using an exfoliating product. Frank is a coffee body scrub born in Australia, with natural credentials and a ‘cheeky personality’ that encourages its fans to post semi-naked selfies. But can it become a hit with Gen Y women worldwide?