Nestled among the uber-trendy shops and restaurants of the Meatpacking District lies Elizabeth Charles, an oasis of cutting-edge fashion from the other side of the world. Charles created her namesake boutique in 2002, as a platform to showcase emerging designers from her native Australia as well as New Zealand. The only store in the U.S. dedicated entirely to this corner of the globe’s exceptional design talent, the boutique is truly a labor of love.

After years working in the investment banking industry, Charles decided to switch gears and follow her true passions: fashion and shopping. In creating the store, Charles wanted to establish a unique, stress-free environment akin to being in your best friend’s living room. And unlike many of its neighboring minimalist boutiques, the shop’s atmosphere is just that inviting. Housed in the ground floor of an old brownstone, the store’s 1,000- square-foot interior is as eclectic and elegant as the clothes it sells. Ornate gold mirrors hang from the walls, while antique chairs and couches encourage comfort and ease while browsing the offerings. But the highlight of the space has to be the serene outdoor courtyard (weather-permitting, of course), a welcome place for that rare moment of urban calm.

The lines Charles carries follow her own style modus operandi: sophisticated, chic, distinguishing. Often the labels, such as Karen Walker (beautiful earth-toned dresses and incredible jeans from New Zealand), Little Joe (sweet camisoles and slip dresses), Zambesi (dreamy wearable dresses, skirts, and tops), and Akira Isogawa (feminine silhouetted dresses with bold patterns and embellishments) are otherwise impossible to find in the Northern Hemisphere. Probably the most popular designer she features has been Toni Maticevski who’s quickly become a cult favorite in New York with his elegant dresses and gowns. In utilizing her prior business experience to help these Aussie and Kiwi designers reach the U.S. market, Charles has a created a perfect niche for herself. And furthermore, she has conceived a truly special place for New Yorkers to discover the innovative, untapped genius from Down Under.