The Garden Room at The Merrion, Dublin was the elegant setting for a special event and champagne supper hosted by THE GLOSS and A&L Goodbody on Wednesday, April 19.

After a cocktail reception, Sheena Doggett, Partner, A&L Goodbody welcomed guests, reflecting on the professional advice she would offer her 30-year-old self, and explaining: “As women in leadership, we have a unique and important responsibility not just to lead by example, but to drive long-term positive and sustainable change. It is within our grasp, but is up to each of us – let’s make it happen.” 

Sheena also introduced Julie O’Neill, Chair PTSB, Anne Sheehan, Microsoft Ireland, and Nicola McClafferty, CEO Molten Ventures, who joined in a special panel discussion hosted by Paula Reid, Partner, A&L Goodbody. Their subject: “Women Leaders – The Next Generation” focused on the resilience and strength needed for success and how the experiences of current female leaders can help promote up-and-coming leaders.

Pictured at The Gloss A&L Goodbody Women in Leadership event are Sheena Doggett, A&L Goodbody, Anne Sheehan, Microsoft, Paula Reid, A&L Goodbody, Julie O’Neill, PermanentTSB, Nicola McClafferty, Molten Ventures.

After supper, prepared by executive chef Ed Cooney and his team, guests were treated to a special presentation by Justine Picardie, the former editor of Harper’s Bazaar and author of Miss Dior. Having heard from women leaders on how the past can positively frame the future, Justine told the story of the quietly influential French Resistance fighter Catherine Dior, sister of designer Christian, tracing the impact of one of the 20th century’s most courageous women.

Special guest speaker Justine Picardie.

The evening concluded with a special Dior Salon show showcasing special pieces from the current SS23 collections at Brown Thomas. Dior’s creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri has always explored the different facets of feminine power and been inspired by strong women. For summer 2023, she took Catherine Dior and Catherine de Medici as her muses – reinventing signature silhouettes such as the Bar jacket and adding corsetry details, graphic shapes, strong colours and dainty accessories from pearls to cameos.

Raising a toast to the inimitable Miss Dior and a wonderfully inspiring evening, guests left with goodie bags including the iconic perfume, Miss Dior, and Justine’s book.

Click into the gallery below to see the guests who attended the event.

Click into the gallery below to see all the details of this event.

Photographer: Emily Quinn.