Tales From My Wardrobe, a new style series that explores the wardrobes of THE GLOSS community, is a love letter to the pieces we reach for again and again, the hard-earned investment purchases that make us smile with each wear and the items that supercede mere ‘clothing’ to carry memories and foster emotional connection.

In this edition, we speak to Jo Linehan, a sustainability journalist and consultant who is passionate about the little changes that make a more considered and conscious life. She shares the ethical brands that she loves, the high street suit she’s turned into a forever piece and the special purchase that takes her back to a former life working in fashion …  

What is your favourite piece in your wardrobe right now?

My Ethical Silk Company dressing gown (pictured, above). Designed in Ireland and made using Fairtrade silk in Jaipur, India, every piece is so luxurious, and best of all, responsibly made. Wearing this while doing my night-time skincare routine is when I am at my most boujie …

Name the most sentimental item in your wardrobe. Why is it so special to you?

Definitely this Topshop purple suit. I bought it in spring 2018 for a big project I was working on in Copenhagen. The colour, the flared trousers, the white buttons – it’s such a fun, fabulous set! And I can never resist a good suit. The project and trip to Denmark were an incredible experience with some of the most creative people I have ever worked with. It opened my mind in so many ways, and I fell head over heels with Copenhagen – it’s such a vibrant, cool city with its very own attitude. This suit brings me right back to the energy of that short but very sweet weekend.

What’s the most recent item you bought?

A Virgo necklace by Irish/London jewellery brand Realta. I’m fascinated with moon cycles, star signs, and Tarot, and am an A-typical Virgo, so I knew I had to make this piece mine. I’ve become obsessed with jewellery in the last few months and am having so much fun building a small collection.

Best bargain in your wardrobe?

A baby blue denim men’s shirt by Ralph Lauren. I picked it up in a small charity shop on Dorset Street for €5 about eleven years ago, and it’s one of those beautifully crafted pieces. It’s made with proper old-school American cotton and boasts a quality that is so difficult to find these days. I wear it with jeans, over dresses; it’s versatile and timeless.

Which of your wardrobe pieces has been your largest investment? 

Probably my Chanel sunglasses. I’ve been tempted by more trend-driven sunglasses styles in the past, but when I went to invest, I felt these would stand the test of time, and they have. I also love that Chanel offers a repair service, so if they take a battering (as sunglasses tend to), they’ll restore them to health. I believe that even investment pieces should be enjoyed – I wear these all of the time.

The piece that paid for itself in cost-per-wear…

My vegan leather H&M shirt – I think most of my Instagram feed features this piece! I just love how it feels, and no matter how done up or dressed down I am, it makes me feel ready for the day.

Favourite place to find hidden gems?

I’m loving Reverie, an Irish vintage site that sells the most amazing designer pieces. The brands blazers, bags, and lingerie are all so covetable.

The least ‘fashion’ thing you own, that you wear all the time?

My Brooks Brothers runners. They are clunky and uncool but the absolute best thing to run in. I love to run and walk, so I leave fashion at home and embrace comfort to the fullest when I do.

Tell us what you never leave the house without.

My Loulerie initial necklace (I’ve had it for years and I feel naked without it), my Mother Reusables coffee cup, and Bare Minerals lip balm in my Marc Jacobs tote.

What’s the dream fashion piece you are lusting after?

Celine earrings. I have loved the label since Phibo Philo was at the helm and still adore the minimal lines and androgynous silhouettes. I’m also after a Ganni white sweatshirt that I know I’ll never be able to keep clean – but a girl can dream.

Most hardworking accessory?

My bags. I’m a sucker for a miniature handbag, which my friends always mock me for. I have a few now, mostly from Mango, that are so fun. This one (pictured) with the wicker handle is deceptively spacious yet lightweight.

Which of your pieces has the best story?

This third-eye Kenzo sweater (pictured, above) was very much the It piece of its time. About seven or eight years ago, I had just established myself as a Junior Editor at a fashion magazine and had decided I would save my measly paycheck for a special item. I ended up on a press trip to London that year and had a few hours to spare after my meetings, so I took the tube to the Kenzo store on Bruton Street. I tried on a few styles and settled on this one. It was such a joy-filled moment – I was giddy heading home on the plane that evening with my Kenzo bag under my arm. I still wear and love it, and it takes me back to my fashion-life days.

For useful hacks on how to make everyday life more sustainable follow Jo on Instagram, Twitter, and her website. Got a wardrobe worth sharing? Send us your tales and  imagery to digital@thegloss.ie.