From chic birthdays and Irish brands with exciting new launches to the most stylish of afternoon teas, here’s what’s on our radar now …
The Homegrown Collection To Note
Photography: Ivor Prickett.
In addition to her roster of notable clients, Dublin designer Cleo Prickett has just launched her new collection titled Collection.S E V E N. “This collection draws on my very eclectic inspirations — the Celtic torc, Gothic architectural shapes, and ideas that have been swimming round my head for years,” the tailoring specialist says. This is Prickett’s first collection since relocating her studio to the Liberties two and a half years ago and it’s extensive. There are 35 pieces including a four-piece men’s capsule.
Coming to the fore is suiting, which Prickett is known for, but there’s also a feminine strain delivered via an Irish linen pin-striped dress (one of two varieties of Irish linen used) which takes inspiration from the curve of a Celtic Irish torc. We can see this being worn with aplomb by Prickett’s edgier clients. As well as a chartreuse wool crêpe Onyx top which livens up GOTS-certified organic jeans. Shop the collection at Cleo Prickett Studio, 10 Meath Street, Dublin 8 and at www.cleoprickett.com.
The New Sunglasses Brand Already Worn By The Fashion Crowd
One to watch is sunglasses brand Semester, the brainchild of PR guru Hannah Saunders who blends a personal obsession with eyewear with her near two-decades of experience in luxury branding. Designed in Ireland and made in Italy, the collection boasts sophistication and glamour, founded in contemporary-classic shapes that you’ll always turn to, from classic cat-eyes to distinctive aviators. The name Semester, which is derived from the Swedish word for ‘vacation’, is also indicative of a state of mind. It’s this Scandinavian mindset that inspired Saunders when creating her inaugural collection. We’ve already spotted the toffee brown Upper East Siders on stylish dressers, while the tortoiseshell iteration have a quirky kind of edge. Shop it at www.semesterstyle.com.
The Luxe Afternoon Tea
The just-launched (and exquisite) Montblanc Afternoon Tea is the perfect excuse for a bougie visit to The Westbury. Curated especially to reflect the craftsmanship of Montblanc, the afternoon tea features five custom desserts which nod to Montblanc’s writing instruments – and the silver screen icons, gothic writers and rock stars that inspired them. Perhaps a luxurious few hours spent at The Westbury might inspire your own story-telling, too. Did we mention we’re also coveting the brand’s leather goods? Pop into the South Anne Street store to peruse the decadent leather bags which have a crisp, back-to-school feeling. Montblanc Afternoon Tea at The Westbury costs €79 per person, or €103 to include a glass of Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve NV; www.doylecollection.com.
The Fashionable Day Out
Fashion historian Ruth Griffin brings her popular Grafton Street Fashion History Tours back for summer’s end. Having studied Ireland’s fashion history for 15 years, Griffin is a wealth of knowledge – and passion – on this topic. “Dublin has a fashion history and most of it has been forgotten,” she says. “From department stores to couture ateliers and court dress makers to hatters and tailors, this city was once shaped by the rhythms of style and trade, and some of its traces are still hiding in its streets if you know where to look.” Book a place on the next tour on August 15, at 11.30am or 3pm, for your chance to gain a fascinating insight into Dublin’s best-loved shopping district – as well as the unsung history of Ireland’s makers and creators. Visit www.ruthgriffin.com to book.
The Birthday Worth Celebrating (With Chic Accessories)
Beloved Cork fashion boutique Samui celebrates 25 years in business this year. To mark the occasion, an exclusive, limited-edition scarf design has been created in collaboration with Faliero Sarti. The Italian cashmere scarf, which features an illustrated, hand-drawn map of Cork and highlights the people and places that make the county so special, is not only a wearable work of art but, as owner and director Clodagh Cronin says “a love letter” to Samui’s hometown. It’s brought to life with the fine craftsmanship of Faliero Sarti, the scarf specialists worn by Sofia Coppola. The Samui x Faliero Sarti scarf, €480, is available exclusively from Samui, Cork and at www.samuicork.com.
We may earn a commission if you buy through affiliate links on our site.
READ MORE: 8 Fashion Events To Add To Your Summer Diary
