irish design collections with main character energy …
We wax lyrical about linen for summer – in suiting, shorts, dresses with salubrious embellishment and on-trend cut-outs. But what about accessories? This season Kinsale Leather has adapted its Market Bag in two colour ways, grey and natural organic linen, both with a buttery soft, tan leather upper and strap (pictured above). Roomy but still elegant, consider it a luxe upgrade to the canvas tote you haul everywhere. An ideal companion for the farmer’s market, paired with cream jeans for ultimate coastal grandma energy. €110; www.kinsaleleather.com.
Main image: Begley & Bowie.
With the flowers in full bloom, another designer making their mark is Joanne Hynes, whose latest collection at Dunnes Stores is aptly titled I Beg Your Pardon, Rose Garden. Bold and bright, the collection conjures up the usual devil-may-care attitude we’ve come to expect from Hynes. And, even though it’s a maximalist’s dream, pieces pair equally as well with toned down items like the season’s denim skirting; www.dunnesstsores.com.
With a 1960s sensibility, the new collection (pictured above) from Kenmare brand Begley & Bowie has summer sewn up. It’s a new departure for illustrator, screen-printer and designer Doireann Healy, who has expanded into exquisite pieces in silk and Irish linen, as well as striking screen prints. The result is modish mini dresses and beautiful printed trousers – all made in Ireland. Prices start from €40. www.begleyandbowie.bigcartel.com
As the fashion world slowly embraces the idea of luxestock (that is, reusing luxury deadstock material to create fashion collections rather than leaving it on the scrap heap) Irish designer Aoife Rooney’s brand AOIFE leads the charge. Each collection is circular and designed to be loved and worn forever. The Long Sleeved Relaxed Shirt, €285 (pictured above), made from forest-friendly reclaimed viscose is our kind of indulgence. The rich jewel tones of the collection are a welcome change from saturated summer pastels, €285; www.aoifelifestyle.com.
