“When I shop I forget who I am, I forget what my life is like.” So writes Rebecca Willis in her new book, Life, Death and Getting Dressed (see an extract on page 46 of October’s issue).
The Greek Stoic philosopher Epictetus, (who died in 55AD), said, “Know first who you are; then adorn yourself accordingly.” We are constantly told to define ourselves, our style, and stick to it.
But milliner Stephen Jones, fashion icon and Creative Director of Hats at Dior, special guest at a recent GLOSS dinner in association with EY at The Merrion, persuaded us to think about something most of us rarely wear – a hat.
“You get so much attitude from putting on a hat,” he said, as he placed a vintage hat from Christian Dior’s 1947 New Look collection on the head of MC Ciara Doherty. “A hat turns up the volume. It makes a woman feel very different, very special; it takes her out of the ordinary. Women aren’t used to wearing hats now but they should think again. The right hat at the right time is a very powerful thing.”
In his Dior suit, with gold brooch, and jaunty beret, Jones was style, charm and wit personified. A major exhibition, “Stephen Jones at the Palais Galliera” will open in Paris this month and run until March 2025. Highlighting his collaborations over 40 years with the most legendary names in fashion, most notably Dior, this exhibition is a must-visit for those who appreciate extraordinary craftsmanship and creativity.
THIS MONTH WE’RE …
TAKING IN: The “Green is a Myriad” exhibition by Paul Hughes at RHA Gallery, Ely Place, Dublin 2 from October 3. Proceeds from the sale of this verdantly vibrant series of paintings go to support the work of Unicef. www.rhagallery.ie
ENJOYING: Eat Spain Drink Spain events around the country, until October 19. A highlight? Spanish food expert Blanca Valencia pairing wines with her favourite Spanish paintings at the National Gallery. www.foodswinesfromspain.com
WATCHING: Enda Walsh and Anna Mullarkey’s Safe House on the Peacock stage at the Abbey until November 9. Described as a song cycle, gig, and memory play, it stars Kate Gilmore as a young, displaced woman living alone. www.abbeytheatre.ie
BOOKING: Hamilton, the story of America’s founding father, set to a toe-tapping score which blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, and R&B. Join the chic Circle Club and have dinner before the show. Until November 16 www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie
WE’RE LOVING …
Express yourself in a big floppy hat, a felted wool fedora or a natty beret. Consult Stephen Jones’ book, Dior Hats (Rizzoli) for inspiration.
BREAKFAST SNACKS
Move over avocado on toast and overnight oats. With all the accessorising we are doing this month (Toteme bag and MoMuse jewellery above), we only have time for espresso and a cookie!
SUNDAY ROASTS
All to ourselves! As autumn closes in, book a cosy table at The Old Spot in Dublin 4 or Hunters Hotel in Co Wicklow. For more ideas, see 5 Cosy Restaurants To Visit This October