Women on style lessons they learned from each other. Tara and Koo share fashionable influences …
Tara wears a black top and skirt by 2nd Skin, from Kalu, Naas, Co Kildare. Koo wears a pink Molly Goddard dress with socks and wellies.
“Koo exudes style; I admire her knack of putting together vibrant outfits which reflect her impeccable taste, her fun-loving personality, and keen eye for accessorising,” says Tara O’Connor, founder of The Designed Table, of her best friend Koo Donnelly whom she has known since they met in Annabel’s nightclub in 2000. Their influence on each other’s fashion choices has been reciprocal and impactful. “We both have an aversion to trends; Koo has a penchant for checks and tartans, I gravitate to prints and florals. What sets Koo apart is her passion for supporting emerging designers, as she loves championing their work. She has also introduced me to Japanese designers. Nowadays I have a preference for clothing that has a loose fit as it feels comfortable and aligns with my personality. Our shared passion is sale shopping, often at Bicester Village, during weekend getaways to London or Soho Farmhouse.”
“There is a sort of drama to Tara’s style, which only she can pull off. Such flair!” says mum-of-three Koo. “As I’m based in the west of Ireland, most days you’ll find me in jeans and shirts with a beanie – and always fun shoes, as that’s where a look begins with me. “Tara and I check in with each other constantly and love to meet up to discuss what to wear for special occasions. We know each other’s styles and provide honest feedback; Erdem is my go-to and I’m lucky to have a friend at Duro Olowu, while Tara’s favourite designer is Dries Van Noten.”
