Buyer's Remorse BE GONE!

So we've talked about a lot lately about still having the freedom to shop even in the midst of this recession but we are realistic at the same time. We know that even with all the smart shopping, organizing, reevaluating and penny pinching, when you go out on a spree sometimes a few hours later the guilt sets in. Buyer's Remorse! We've all bee there; 'Do I really need this?' 'Did it really look good on me?' 'Do I have anything to wear this with?'

All the previous exercises we've gone through have now assured that the answers to all those questions are yes. If that doesn't help and the baddy thoughts are still there here is a new way to start to look at your purchases;

Let's say you buy a nice warm coat that costs you €275. Now, judging by the cool Irish weather let's say you wear that coat 3 mornings a week to work starting from the second week in October through the end of March. That is 72 uses right there. That is around €3.80 for each use. Don't you think you're OK with spending that to keep you warm and cozy each morning on your way out the door? I buy fashion mags that cost more than that!! This gorge wool-blend coat from Juicy Coture could be yours! A winter coat is easy to excuse, what about a purchase that seems a little more extravagant? Again, even a 90€ bottle of perfume usually has about 500 spritzes in it. A spritz a day until the bottle runs out ends up costing you €1.26 a week! Come on ladies, you can afford that!

Too cool to reuse? Hardly. Even Hollywood's more stylish (or shopping crazed) ladies re wear their fav items! Below see Paris Hilton, sister Niki and even fashion icon Rhianna re-wearing some pieces!

Be A Better Shopper Part V: Shopping Smarts

So you've cleaned out the closet, you've evaluated your wants and needs - now it is time to ask yourself some tough questions and then really go out and spend the dough - buyers remorse not included. It is now December and the Holiday season is very much upon us. We need fresh updated winter basics for our day to day looks as well as exquisite extras and eye catching statement pieces to truly make our Christmas Merry! So what is it that you are coveting for this season of parties and dinners? There must be one pieces or item that you know you will literally use almost every day to get you through all the festivities - which means it needs to look good, fit and last. We all know, that Holy Trinity of clothing doesn't come cheap so this might be a pricey purchase so I am going to teach you a new guilt free way of approaching shopping! Below is a list of Holidays '09 essentials that will help pull together and polish off any outfit and will always be worth the splurge!

• A Tailored Blazer- A Classic black blazer that fits and compliments your shape is a solution to almost any outfit problem. Whether it's being worn to the office, over a top and jeans or atop a super feminine dress it helps to polish the entire look and chase away any bit of winter chill.

This Smythe Les Vestes blazer with it's cropped sleeves and tuxedo-like satin embellishments works wonderfully for this season as it is dressy enough for any Holiday Do, and encompasses the very in 'boyfriend-style' trend of this winter. Available now at Harvey Nichols for right around €625.

• Cocktail Dress- Yea I know, duh. But in reality, many ladies think they can coast through the Christmas season with a smattering of glittery tops, crisp jeans and the occasional pair of black leggings or pants. Those will get you through a few nights out and your girlfriend's miniature faux tree-trimming party in her flat but what about your office party? Christmas dinner at Gran's? Cocktails with the BF's parents? You gotta kick it up a notch! No matter what body type you may be there is an LBD out there that will make you feel glamorous.

This black lace overlay dress from DV8 is amazing for €45! Just glam enough - it can be dressed up or down with accessories depending upon the occasion, is subtly sexual buy showing just the right amount of skin! With the scoop back you can throw a cropped jacket over it for the office party and take it off when you hit the club after!

• Showstopping Heels! - Even the more conservative of ladies can get behind this! You may keep the rest of you all buttoned up - whether at work or out on the lash - but you let your inner sex kitten out when it comes to your shoes! Whether they are strappy, embellished, brightly coloured or just sky-high, eye catching pumps are a great investment piece - especially during party season!

Nobody does stand out heels like Mr. Manolo Blahnik and lucky us Irish girls, we can snap them up at Brown Thomas! (Price upon request) Don't these red satin bow numbers just scream Happy Christmas?!?! Statement Necklace- storing a truly fab glitzy necklace in your purse can take a casual-chic office look right to cocktails and dancing. With so much black getting worn in the winter months, it is nice to be able to out on the glitz with one really bold chunk piece. Where last winter it was the cocktail ring, this year everyone will be wearing the bib necklace. Though the name sounds silly, it really articulates what the babies -seen all over the winter catwalks - are!

This black satin and crystal bib from Vera Wang is to die for! I Love the rosettes and think it is just the right combo of over the top/understated glamour! If you aren't looking to go all out these actually make a really easy DIY project with the right materials and a little bit of creativity!

Mixing one or possibly two of these pieces with your current wardrobe staples and holiday pieces can really make the difference in your Holiday look and attitude! Not sure what it is that is worth it to you? When you are out in the shops in the coming days and weeks ask yourself a couple of questions before you head up to the cashier with your goods;

• Does this fit the way it really should or does it only fit the bod I pretend to have in my head? If the answer here is yes that's great but, don't run to check out just yet. Fitting is key but isn't the only reason you should make a clothing purchase, especially on expensive items.
• Am I using ever muscle in my body to stop myself from putting this on right now and running out the door? Another yes? That is great. I think we all know it is very rare to find a piece of clothing we absolutely aaaddddooooore that fits well too!
• Will I want to wear this next month? How about for the next season? What about come this time next year? A truly versatile piece that can you transition from winter to early spring that is stylish yet you have a hunch just classic enough to still be hott next year is the Holy Grail of clothing.

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Pay the girl and get outa there before some other smart shopper snatches it from yours hands and is out the door! Happy Shopping Kiddies!! xxox

Spotted Out - Mid November Part Deux

Residence, St. Stephen's Green, was awash of Celags and Fabu types Wednesday evening! A-Listers abound to toast the opening of Total Management Ireland. Tara O'Connor, resident PR goddess was surrounded by friends and clients alike to support and celebrate her new business venture.

One gorge attendee told me that the evening was all about 80s for many of the glam ladies in attendance, rocking new spins on some of the decades most prized fashion trends: "sculpted shoulder pad jackets [were] the must have item. Rosanna Davison wore hers emblazoned with sequins, whilst Xpose presenter Lisa Cannon opted for a sleek black style, and model Laura Toogood wore hers in striking purple"

Claudine Palmer was full on WAG-alicious donning a Roberto Cavalli dress and embellished stilettos but her best accessory? Mum Joan!

Hayley Rock was demure pairing her classy dress with Chanel pearls, totally hott single lady Leigh Arnold chose this season's sex on a stick slashed leggings while Andrea Roche, who happened to being doing double celebratory duty, arrived with husband PJ Mansfield looking fabulous, relaxed and beautiful!

Not enough mega-watt glam you say? Also partying it up on the night, Assets models Diana Donnelly and Suzanne McCabe, Katie-Jane Goldin, Virginia Macari, and Chloe Arnold, arm in arm with hottie boyfriend and music star, Justin Manville. Jealous yet? We know we are...xxox!

Spotted Out - Mid November 09

As you can probably tell, I've been really slacking the past week! I'm really sorry folks and I promise the rest of my Recession Era Shopping Posts are coming shortly but for now, wet your style whistle with some Society news courtesy of of one of my many gLaM spies! xxox "The Annual Race Against Breast Cancer Day recently took place at Leopardstown Pavillion. Ireland's glitterati were out in force to help raise money for Breast Cancer Ireland. The guest list was scattered with many high profile guests. Rosanna Davison arrived looking radiant in a black and red coat which she wore over a stunning dress. Rosanna was accompanied by Wesley Quirke and her parents. Chris de Burgh even gave a highly appreciated impromptu live performance at the event. Rosanna was joined at her table by model best friend Laura Toogood, who made her first public appearance since darkening her hair. A number of well known personalities were in attendance including TV stars, Brendan Courtney, Sinead Desmond and Aisling O’Loughlin. Assets models Sarah McGovern and Aoife Cogan turned heads in their striking outfits. Mary Kennedy acted as MC for the afternoon. Tina Koumarianos of Image magazine wore a striking hat and former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds had the pleasure of celebrating his birthday on the day. The event, which is now in its fourth year of running, raised over €290,000 for Breast Cancer Ireland"

Be a Better Shopper III:Know Your Limitations - The Essentials

So now you've got all this empty space in your wardrobe and drawers but, can you shop again? I mean we are in a recessions people!! It is all over the news! Shouldn't I be hoarding any and all cash I have in a shoe box under my bed?

Well yes and no! Yes you can shop! No - do not hide your money in your flat that is a seriously bad idea for numerous reasons!

Back to the shopping! During your previous great wardrobe purge, you may have parted with more than just pieces too trendy and what not. You may have gotten rid of some items that you love and can't live without but had gotten into raggy shape. These are the first things you need to shop for.

So, stay organized!

Start out by making a list. There are staples that you need in your collection, they make life, and getting dressed in the morning, easier and more fabulous!

When we've talked to some of Ireland's fashion and style elite we've asked them what their essentials for all are. Fionnuala Bourke suggested good bras and undergarments, noting the importance of how they make your body look and the rest of your clothing fit. She also said to always have on hand some "sexy high heels,a pair of jeans that you feel amazing in, and...you're good to go!" Darren Kennedy suggested it is wise to to invest in a "good coat, shoes, grooming".

So, time to make the list. Get out a pad and make three columns with the following headers;

Need, Want, Love!

The Need Column are the staples. Really try to limit to to multipurpose essentials and versatile pieces that will make you work and social life glamorous and easy. Our suggestions?

• wel tailored black pants
• the perfect pencil skirt
• a crisp white shirt
• pumps that go from day to night
• the perfect LBD
• interview ready suit(if your line of work calls for it)

Wardrobe Essentials by EmeraldApple featuring Yves Saint Laurent shoes

We also agree with Fionnuala and Darren, good jeans are a must have. Find a pair that fit you well and make your ass look great and buy it tow or three different washes and/or styles. These will save your life over and over again.

A really good, warm, high quality yet fashionable and well fitting coat is a big must. We all know the weather here, you can't get away with not having a coat. Spend the money and get one that you like, looks good, does it's job and you can wear to the club, to the office and the shop.

All these pieces may seem a bit bland but think of it as your blank canvas, or the white walls of your flat. It is the items you put on your Want and Love lists that will add colour and style to your outfits - these pieces are your fashion foundation waiting to be built on!

Winter Hue....

Come the winter months most of us see the colours of our wardrobe transition slowly from bright neons or pale pastels to deeper, richer tones and holiday-esq colours but, your clothing isn't the only way to update your look and feel more in season. Take a cue from the lovely Laura Toogood and darken your tresses as well!Richard Keaveney is the colourist who transformed Miss Toogood from blond to brunette. Richard is part of the the wonderful Keaveney family, who founders of Peter Mark, and is one of the top colourist. Just when we though Laura's eyes couldn't be any more GORGE, this new colour totally makes those baby blues pop! Jeal of Laura's new look, than check out the Peter Mark link above and find a salon near you!

Be a Better Shopper; Make - Up bag edit!

Yesterday we expelled the importance of trimming the fat on your wardrobe, really knowing what you already own and why it works for you. But, clothing isn't the only area in which we over indulge and over buy. How many times have you bought a pair of killer heels that literally kill your feet and therefore never wear? Maybe you've just never been able to find the right outfit to go with them? Or perhaps that really cute purse covered in fringe that in reality you cannot even fit your mobile phone into?

Fashion clutter builds up everywhere and it is really important to have every area spic and span so you know exactly what you've got in your style arsenal. But, no other place can over-run with the unused like our make up bags can! Dump every piece you have on to an empty flat surface so you can really see what is there, rather than just poke around in the bag. Anything that you've had since secondary school. in fact anything you've had for the past year and have barely used - dump! We've talked in the past about the importance of cleaning your brushes and tools, but bacteria builds up in the make up itself and if it is sitting around not being used, why keep it? Think about it though, when are you really going to reuse that heavily-glittered purple cream-eyeshadow you bought for a fancy dress?

You might pick up on trends here too. Do you have 14 different variations of mocha coloured smoke eyeshadow because none of them ever seem to be the right shade? IT might be time to turn to a professional. Sitting down at a cosmetics counter for a one time make up consultation will in time save you hundreds in misguided purchases. Once again now, after shifting the unusable, you will have a more clear picture of what you like, use and need. This is going to be a big help. Not only will you figure out what truly works on your face and shave minutes off your beauty regiment each day, you can evaluate which products are worth a splurge. If you know that YSL's liquid under eye concealer is really the only one you like but any pink lip gloss will suit you can more accurately budget you cosmetics cash and always have what you need on hand!

Need some help figuring out what you need and what you can leave? Here are the piece every chick should have some form of in her make up bag;

• Good Cover-Up/Concealer -in reality, most women do NOT need to wear a layer of foundation and certainly no one needs to wear it every day. A skin balancing moisturiser (tinted if you like) will help to even out the tone of your skin. Then take a concealer to hide any dark patches or red spots as well as a dot or two under the eye to highlight and around the curves of the nose to soften. Much less work, and your skin will thank you.
• Loose Powder - super sheer and perhaps with a small amount of highlighting shimmer, blend over your T-Zone as well as brown and cheek bones for luminous easy coverage.
• Bronzer/Blush Duo- Without going to rosy or too tanned, brush up your cheek bones and over your forehead and lightly across your chin to lift your entire complexion and create a healthy glow.
• Light/Nude Lip Gloss - avoid anything to sparkly, too shocking a shade and too sparkly and this gloss can take you from day to night, interview to first date. Chose a shade just enough to enhance and slightly exaggerate the fullness and colour of your own lips.
• Thickening/Darkening Mascara-a lot of girls make the mistake of buying different kinds of mascara for different times of use but, lets be fair, good mascara is pricey! Invest in a really good mascara that both thickens, lengthens and darkens that lashes and comes with a wand that will really define them. Rather than have a light shade for day, a darker thicker type for hitting the town and a defined one for work, just modify your application. Pile it on top and bottom for nights out, apply a one thin defining layer to both for work and maybe just a quick swipe to top layers for every day use. Even a little bit makes the face seem more awake!
• Smudge Proof Brown Pencil- By opting for a dark brown this pencil can do double time as liner and brow perfecter.

These aren't the only items you should have or keep, just suggestions of staples to hang out to and mix with other FAV pieces and tools. Now, give that make up bag a shake or a wipe and pile all your keepers back in!

Feeling kinda wasteful tossing all this seemingly good stuff in the trash during a critical financial period? Then don't! OK, the old make up has to go, that would be icky, but the clothing, especially piece in good condition don't have to be rubbished. Maybe you have a few pieces that don't fit your style or body type but you have a girlfriend that they would? Organise a swap. Encourage your BFFs to sort through their own things, meet in a group and see if anyone has castoffs you feel are worth nabbing. One woman's trash is another girly's treasure! Mix up some cocktails and put some Sex & the City DVDs on in the background and make it a party!

No friends that share the same size? There are thousands of woman in need of clothing for work and day to day use all over this country. Check out Enable Ireland to find out how your old frocks can be put to truly good use!

Be a Better Shopper; Get Reacquainted With What You've Got!

The Celtic Tiger is no more and we are in a recession folks, there is no way around it! Everyday we are seeing articles in the paper about the end of glitzy charity balls, the farewell to A-List Launches with over stuffed gift bags and the near shuttering of many Fab establishments.

Both home and abroad times are tough and things are changing but, the end of the free-spend era doesn't have to mean the end to glamour - it means the beginning of a new way of thinking!When you are operating on a budget you need to be a much smarter spender. Everyone knows when you are trying to ace an exam the first step is to get yourself organized and passing through this recession with flying (and trendy!) colours is just the same! With a few tips and tricks all of us can stay fab and get back to shopping so keep reading!

We've already preached the merits of shopping locally with a global approach, meaning find the latest trends and strong investment pieces in local shops rather than scouring the Internet or running to a cheap high-street chain - more to come on that front as well - but now it is time to start thinking a lot more locally - your wardrobe!

As the days get shorter and the air gets colder now is the perfect time to put away your summery glad rags and pull out your more substantial winter frocks. BUT- don't be too hasty in getting this chore done. Take a good long look at your collection. If the wardrobe in your bedroom looks like a version of either above or below, now is the time to streamline. Set aside a hangover-free Sunday and really sift through what is there.

Take a few minutes to come up with all the necessary categories and subcategories your clothing should fit in to; Dresses -Summer Dress/ Winter Dresses. Pants - Work/Casual/Jeans etc. and create piles consisting of every scrap you own -nothing gets left behind.

Now comes the hard part - discard.

Are there pieces in you 'Summer' piles that went the whole season without being worn? Maybe 'Winter' bits that never got an airing last year and are unlikely to get one this? Let go! Pieces you love to death and therefore wear constantly so subsequently they are a bit tattered? Purchases that looked great in the shop on the hanger but never quite translated as well on to your bod? Buh bye! Maybe pieces that were just too trendy and alas will get use no longer? All of these go on the toss pile - we will get back to that!

Now it is time to organize what we are keeping and get an understanding of why. Sort through the kept clothes and come up with at least one reason why you are keeping or what you like about each piece. Chances are you are going to start to see patterns. It maybe a certain label or brand, certain shape or cut, or perhaps just even a colour palette that you feel suits you best. If you were to go through the reject pile you'll probably find patterns too but we don't want to waste an entire Sunday on this exercise...

Finding a theme in the keepers is two fold. For one, it will help you create even more subsections of organization now that it is time to put all your clothes back in their places. Check out this color-coordinated super efficient press below, isn't it gorge?!?

After that, knowing what you have and why you have it will now help you to be that smarter spender. No longer will you stroll willy-nilly though Brown Thomas picking up pieces for no real reason other than they seem to be 'in' and you 'want' them. Now you know what works for you, you know what you will be happy to put on , make you look and feel fab and fill you with confidence.

Congratulations, you are the proud owner of a gorgeously neat, tidy, self empowering, totally glam wardrobe! Tune in later in the week because with all this new found room in your cupboards and the knowledge of what makes you look like a stone cold fox, it is time to go SHOPPING!!

Ask A Model; With Chloe Arnold

NAME: Chloe Arnold

HAIR COLOUR: dark brown

EYE COLOR: brown

HEIGHT: 5'9"

BIRTH DATE:12th December

FAVORITE SCENT/PERFUME: The One by D&G

FAVORITE PLACE IN THE WORLD: Paris and New York

PEOPLE SAY YOU LOOK LIKE: not sure really, not Irish any way....

HOMETOWN: Dublin

LIFELONG DREAM: To continue to be happy and healthy. Live life to the full and never compromise!

BEST BEAUTY SECRET: Drink plenty of water.

BEST CONFIDENCE-BOOSTING TIP: learn to like yourself,if you don't, how can anyone else like you?

WORDS TO LIVE BY:" However I may appear to be, the power and strength of the universe rests in me". Some people will try to bring you down but know that its only their insecurities and unhappiness driving their negativity.

ROLE MODEL/IDOL: I suppose my beautiful mummy, she is just wonderful!

MOST EMBARRASSING MODEL MOMENT: My stiletto coming off on the runway for a very big designers show.... won’t say who but they know who they are!!!!

I LOVE MODELING BECAUSE: Modeling is something that just happened for me, I didn't set out to be a model. I was scouted when I was 15 and it just went from there. I have always loved fashion and knew that something in it was always going to be a career possibility for me, so what better way than modeling to get contacts and get a feel for the industry! Modeling has given me the opportunity to make great friends, wear beautiful creations, meet such interesting and talented people, to see the world and of course not work conventional hours!

How do you stay in shape? (Aoife, 17, Mayo) I not very disciplined about exercising religiously, I hate the gym. I find it really boring and monotonous. I do love walking; I try to walk 3 times a week. I especially enjoy going for hill walks in the countryside. I do that most weekends. I also practice yoga every week. I find it really beneficial for calming my mind down and strengthening my core area.

How do I get my makeup to stay all day long without smearing? (Gemma, 15, Enniscorthy)

I'm not a massive makeup wearer when I'm not working to be quite honest, however when working on shoots etc the makeup artists tell me that a good primer is really effective for long lasting coverage. Laura Mercier do a great one that you put on before your base.

Which products do you use to keep your face clear? (Rachel, 14, Tullamore)

I don't have a particular product that I use, I'm always rushing or trying new products all the time. I would recommend drinking plenty of water-about 6-8 glasses a day minimum. Also eating lots of fresh fruit and veg is a must to flush out any toxins that may be giving you spots etc.

Models' skin always looks so soft and clear. My skin is rough, and lotion just doesn't seem to help. How do I get my skin to have such a healthy glow? (Sinéaid, 17, Listowel)

Well, what you see in magazines is never a true reflection of the models skin in reality. Lots of the time Ad campaigns and editorials are airbrushed giving the illusion of flawlessness, lighting and a great makeup team also are imperative for the overall look. However having said that models entire career is based on their appearance- they must be a blank canvas for the "artist" to work on. Looking after your skin is imperative and a must in this business. I would recommend exfloliating 3 times a week, if you don't have a good exfoliator or don't want to the spend money, use a wet warm face cloth and gently scrub it over your face. It should get rid of any gunk from daily debris. Then use an alcohol free toner to close your pores and finish with a light moisturiser.

MORE TIPS TRICKS AND INSPIRATIONAL WORDS TO COME FROM THE LOVELY CHLOE ARNOLD! And Please stay tuned, Chlo0e has her own website CoCoStyle.ie that will be up and running within the next few weeks!

Eyes All Over This City

So, I may be stuck in bed with the Swan Flu (I've re-named it, Swine sounds awful!) but I've got eyes everywhere kiddies! ome of the country's most gorge celagutites and models were out and about this week as I lay coughing up a lung in my apartment! Here's what went on our FaB capital; Monday: The Conrad hotel hosted the annual Marie Curie Fashion Show.

Working the catwalk for this noble cause were: Suzanne McCabe, Laura Toogood, Aisling Pugh, Diana Donnelly, Louise Kavanagh, Georgia Salpa and Nadia Forde. Looks and ensembles from from Marks & Spencer as well as Arnotts delighted those who attended!

Tuesday: Zuku by KSO Launch and Fashion show organised by stylist, Roxanne Parker at the Attic on Henry Street.

Spotted at the fete?Assets model Laura Toogood rocking a long, black, Gothic-style skirt with a white corset by Coast. Fellow Assets model and musician Una Gibney was on hand in a gorgeous navy number by Chloe dress. Author Marisa Mackle donned fitted purple dress with a coordinating and very on trendy purple necklace. Noirin Kelly of Big Brother 'fame' was every inch the recessionista-fashionista in a black and silver sequined dress copped in Dunnes Stores while Xpose's Karen Koster looked stunning in pink dress from the new collection being shown. A bevvy of Assets models strutted down the runway including, Amy Ronning, Aoife Cogan, Sarah Morrissey and Yomiko.

Jealousy is coursing through my veins! Sounds like another gLaM week in Dublin! xxox kiddies!

A Day at the Racing with Laura Toogood !

Even though I am having a supreme time here in NYC, I am totally out of the loop with most things Irish and Fab. This would present a Major problem if it wasn't for some wonderful, not to mention super glam gals whom I can live vicariously through! Today the smart, talented and lovely Miss Laura Toogood is having us along for a day at the races! Enjoy xoxo!

Laura Toogood and Gillian Fitzpatrick

Photo by Leon Farrell

Goffs Millions Race Day On Sunday I attended the Goffs Millions Race Day and I was lucky enough to be a guest in the Brown Thomas marquee. I left Dublin at noon with some friends in a taxi destined for the Curragh. The day is a highlight in the Irish racing calendar as it plays host to Europe’s richest two year old races. The prize for the Most Stylish Lady is also lucrative, with Brown Thomas offering €20,000 to the winner.

We arrived at the Curragh to a friendly greeting from Kennedy PR, who were organising the hospitality on behalf of Brown Thomas. A champagne reception followed by a buffet lunch was offered prior to the first race. Several familiar faces attended the event including Ronan and Yvonne Keating, the former standing out from the crowd in black, square-framed vintage sunglasses. Amanda Byram wore a stunning couture dress with striking shoulder pads and joined publisher Michael O’Doherty on judging duty along with Stacey O’Donnell of Brown Thomas. Alan Hughes attended as did fellow TV3 presenter, Lisa Cannon who was on reporting duty for Xpose. Lisa dressed for the occasion donning a glamorous beige and brown headpiece to match her dress.

Photo by Leon Farrell

After lunch, we positioned ourselves by the windows at the front of the marquee and watched as a steady flow of ladies arrived, many strutting past the parade ring in an attempt to catch the eye of the judges. There were several stunning outfits on display with some contenders opting for a high impact factor by choosing attention-grabbing ensembles, and others attempting to achieve a more subtle effect through various eye-catching styles. Purple was the colour of the day, with the regal shade boldly on show, often teamed with cream or yellow, and on some occasions worn without any interference. Tall fascinators also proved popular and the coordinated brolly protocol was followed regularly. Many of those vying for the honours of Most Stylish Lady clearly spent considerable time synchronising their outfits in impeccable detail and inspiration had been taken from various fashion decades. The top thirty ladies were invited to join us in the Brown Thomas marquee. Peacock inspired attire had obviously proved successful with the judges as two of the shortlisted ladies opted for this theme. Contenders who had taken inspiration from specific fashion eras were also dutifully rewarded with a place on the shortlist; one eye-catching outfit was a red reflection on fashion in the 1920’s. It was Elaine Bennett’s simple, but striking black and cream dress, with matching black accessories that triumphed in the fashion stakes and secured the generous prize fund.

Winner! Elaine Bennett and admirer

Photo by Leon Farrell

The race day was thoroughly enjoyable from both a fashion and equestrian perspective and for those who have never attended I would recommend it as a fun day out that can be enjoyed with a partner, family or friends. Many ladies spent a large sum of money on their outfits, but those who are on a budget are certainly not excluded from the fashion fun. An accompanying friend purchased one new item for the day; a stylish hat, costing less that five euro from a local charity shop. My personal choice was a Guess dress that I purchased over a year ago and which hasn’t had an outing for as long. It had black and white detail so I teamed it with a black cardigan adding a belt to create definition. It is crucial to keep the weather in mind when dressing for the racing and considering it is nearly October I wanted to make sure I was warm enough to spend some time outside, so I wore black tights with Kurt Geiger closed-toe heels.

Often people consider the hardest part of putting an outfit together for racing, is choosing what to wear on your head. There is a misconception that hats and fascinators are expensive; they might well be pricey to buy, but hiring them for the occasion proves an affordable option. I sourced a suitable black and white hat from Foxrock Fillies, which is a hat hire shop ironically located in Blackrock. I picked up my chosen hat three days prior to the race meet and was given six days ‘borrowing time’. Foxrock Fillies have a vast array of hats in all shapes, colours and sizes, and also offer some stunning fascinators and accessories, so it is definitely worth popping in for a browse. With my equestrian background I appreciate the action on the day so I had a small flutter and backed four horses in the early races, but sadly my luck was not in. For those who think they don’t have enough knowledge to become involved in the betting, a summary of the form is offered on the race card, so after a quick read, it is worth chancing an educated guess. The parade ring offers race goers an opportunity to admire the runners and for those who want to get close to the action it is easy to stand near the rails. If you have never been racing before it is definitely worth considering attending some of the major meets. Further information, including details regarding various Ladies Days, is available on www.goracing.ie. Special thanks to the friends I attended with for a fabulous day, and to Brown Thomas for their wonderful hospitality. For more covereage of the Fab Happenings check out The Independent!

Lovely Links;

http://www.brownthomas.com/ http://www.kennedypr.ie/ http://www.hathire.ie/ http://www.goffs.com/ http://www.goracing.ie/ www.curragh.ie http://www.kurtgeiger.com/ http://www.guess.com/ www.tv3.ie/xpose

Spotlight on Fionnuala Bourke Part Deux

We're back with Fionnuala Bouke and part two of our chit chat with the dynamic, multi layered and talented fashion designer poised to take Ireland by storm. Many may recognize Fionnuala from her Project Catwalk days, or the name from dressing many Irish models and 208 Miss Universe Ireland 2008 Lynn Kelly.

Today we will hear about Fionnuala's personal style, wardrobe staples and the CeLaGs she'd most like to see wrapped in her creations!

What current Celebrity do you think has great style?

Well this is a typical answer of the moment but I would have to say Cheryl Cole. What a transformation from a few years ago! She is now a Nations Sweetheart! Her style is spot on trend for the moment but, for me personally she can be a bit hit and miss. I wouldn't love everything she wears and I understand she spends a lot of money on her look, but I think her personality radiates through..Lets face it, she could rock a black bag!

Who would you most love to see in your creations?

Well, I'd love to see Cheryl Cole in my clothes! That might happen one day, I'll have to get on that! Other then that, I'm a big fan of flying the Irish Flag. I've worked with Sharon Conden and Ruth O'Neill, and I hope to work with them again in the future. Who knows, maybe Laura Whitmore? Blaithnaid ni Choifigh? Shana Keane? The Xpose Girls? I'll just keep going until I dress all the women of Ireland!

How would you define your personal style?

My own style is quite casual cool. I live in jeans and t-shirts and my gold chain necklace, that's a staple! I'm normally very busy running from my day job as a visual merchandiser in a major high street retailer to my studio(which is not as fancy as it sounds - It's my brothers spare room in his house!) so it is a must that I'm wearing something comfy, converse runners, and I live in my boyfriend blazer.

What essentials should every woman own?

I definitely believe in a good bra. A good bra could change your whole shape! And good underwear, Trinny and Susannah were so right there. I think a staple pair of black sexy high heels,a pair of jeans that you feel amazing in, and confidence, then you're good to go!

You're best styling tip?

Dress to suit your shape and not the current trend! I'm short myself and I'm bigger on the top then on the bottom. I've learnt through trial and error that there is a lot I cannot wear. You have to be able to say to yourself; "No. I cant wear leggings and a short top, that just doesn't flatter my figure." There are a lot of sheep out there....

Well a sheep she is not! Fionnuala is a true Irish original! Check out her latest looks and collections at http://www.fionnualabourke.com/ - we know you will be impressed!

Fall Fashion 09 - Shop Local; Dresses!

The last few weeks of Summer become the perfect opportunity for designers and fashion houses to dress the biggest Hollywood stars in whatever look they are hoping to push for fall. The red carpet doubles as a a Fall Runway and all the 'It' girls don what we mere mortals will spend the Autumn /Winter trying to recreate!

The close of this Summer has seen one very particular trend flooding ever press call, premiere and showbiz fete; The long sleeve Mini Dress with Statement Shoulders!

Kristen Bell -House of LavandeRachel McAdams - Emilio Pucci Molly Sims - 3.1 Philip Lim Michelle Monaghan - Rachel Roy

Camilla Bell - Chloe

Normally, girls (me) see these pictures in the various glossies and immediately hit the world wide web trying to find a dress similar. But is that really necessary? As the recession trudges on, I can't help to think how important it is to shop local and support small and independent Irish business!We have amazing boutiques here throughout Dublin and around the country, all carrying the hottest trends for fall! So, Think Globally but, Shop Locally!

Looking for this dress trend in particular? head to Fran&Jane! With a location in Cork and shops throughout Dublin, Fran&Jane and their line Regine is one of the longest running fashion labels within Ireland, having been founded in 1974 by Fran Nolan. Fran's daughter Laura now heads up the design team and was nice enough to forward me on some new looks that are coming into the shops now and totally capture this big fall trend!

So ladies, it is up to us to bail Ireland out! Let's start our own Economic Stimulus Plan and shop 'til We Drop! Remember; Think Global, Shop Local!

*check out the Regine website or the Fran&Jane fan page on Facebook for locations, store hours and a peak at the collections!