Karl Lagerfeld has never been to India but never one to pass an opportunity the recent Chanel presentation entitled ”Paris-Bombay” held in Paris at the dome in the Grand Palais had all the hallmarks of the excess of the Raj. An amazing opulent set was the backdrop for clothes that even though they had all the hallmarks of the finest of traditional Indian craft finishing were all hand finished in Paris. It all has the look of the privilaged continuing to party while everyhting around crumbles. I’m not sure whether this was tongue in cheek or serious but whatever it was the clothes do the talking here and are beautifully crafted for a modern woman whether Indian or from anywhere else for that matter.
The colour of 2012 as decreed by the Pantone Institute is…(drum roll…) Tangerine Tango. If you don’t wear it yourself you will at least see it everywhere since the colour institute informs the industry a year ahead and the high street are all ready to take to the rails. It could be worse and if you don’t want to wear it head to toe (heaven forbid) accessories could make a welcome splash of this colour that screams energy and passion. Two things we could all do with more of in these uncertain times.
On a day when budgets target the disabled and lone parents and the poor get poorer the only thing I can say is that I do hope those people on large pensions and half decent salaries that have been only marginally affected are spending all their disposable income in Ireland and not on shopping trips to New York or London. Those cities are terrific but right at home there are some fantastic shopping parties (as I like to call them) happening all over the country. Boutiques are hosting events where you can sip champagne, eat nibbles and shop at discounted prices. Look out for them because they are all happening and in a boutique near you very soon. One event that I thought looked interesting is taking place this Thursday//Friday evening and that’s in Oasis in Dublin and Cork
The Oasis My Personal Stylist launch event is being held in Oasis St. Stephen’s Green Dublin on Thursday evening December 8th from 6pm – 9pm, and the Oasis Cork launch which is happening in Oasis Patrick Street Cork on Friday December 9th from 6pm – 9pm. I am assured that all my followers are included in this invitation.
The launch includes exclusive 20% discount off during the party, in store DJ, prizes and pampering treatments on offer in store, as well as Celebrity Stylits Lisa Fitzpatrick offering free style consultations on the evening. Watch out for activity in Oasis Dundrum Town Centre and Oasis Belfast across the weekend as they are offering lucky dips to customers to win vouchers and discounts.
Makeup artist to the stars Mary Greenwell, who has worked with everyone from Diana Princess of Wales and Gwyneth Paltrow to many of the world’s top models has teamed up with Jo Fairley, beauty writer (the Beauty Bible) and founder of Green & Blacks and produced a series of video master classes. The first of video just arrived and I just had to share it with you as it’s brilliant. I am constantly trying to improve my choice of foundation and more importantly how I apply it. Check out the new website and bookmark it now www.high50.com.
Designers are constantly striving to retain their core aesthetic and building on their strengths. Not easy when they have to inject newness every season. Sian Jacobs is one Irish designer that I have been following for sometime. Sian brought out her first collection in 2008, primarily working in cashmere she has perfected the art of sublime taste both in the shapes, subtle design features and use of colour. Her latest collection has some serious contenders for my Christmas lust list. Her Lagoon cashmere long tunic/dress is my current favorite In a new departure her Grey Shearling Jacket oozes gorgeousness and the new scarves have serious present appeal. Maven is one of the boutiques in Dublin that always carries a full collection, Brown thomas and Emporium Kalu are also on the list.
Flying these days is an expensive business. Free flights are nothing of the sort as the taxes and charges amount to a small fortune and with Ryan air staff incentivized to find that your cabin bag doesn’t fit into those tiny receptacles what’s a person to do? Well here’s one solution for anyone who wants to beat the system. Not a fashion statement as such and I certainly had a chuckle at this. Prepare to see this being worn in airports near you sometime very soon….
I don’t know how long it takes for something to become an institution but with Dundrum On Ice in place for the second year it certainly feels like it’s fast becoming one. Dundrum Shopping centre already has that Christmassy feeling. The lights are all twinkling and there’s a certain good feeling in the air. Now I’m no skater, having had a run in with roller blades as a child and no balance whatsoever but watching people of all ages at the rink yesterday was pretty wonderful. Adults €14 euro per session and children €13. At off peak times these are reduced by €2 each. Family tickets are good value with 3 costing €30 in off peak times , otherwise €40. Families of 4 are €45 and €35 at off peak times. There are also great value group sessions. Booking can be done online at DundrumOnIce or by calling 01- 5143663 , otherwise you can get them at the rink.
Yesterday it was casual and warm, today it’s the turn of the smart serious Winter coat. An essential in every woman’s wardrobe but not necessarily a purchase to be made annually. If you invest in a classic coat then it will last and look good for a lot more than one season. These are my favorites from what’s available. I like a really good quality wool for warmth and looks, although the Vivienne Westwood one is a serious contender. The shape needs to suit and cover you so that all you need is a pair of boots, hat and gloves to step out in both warmth and style for any occasion.
I have a seriously difficult relationship with Winter which is unfortunate to say the least. I suffer from all sorts of ailments none of which improve in the cold, on the contrary my life can be an utter misery when the temperature drops. This has me looking like a granny circa 1950 on my way to bed. My hot water bottle is one of my best friends and bedsocks and thermal pyjamas make for unglamorous night attire. Going outdoors is another matter entirely although I do admit to silk long-sleeved vests and Falke Soft Merino wool tights. I notice on my travels that in Northern Europe and Canada the Down jacket is a staple. I’m not talking about those cheap polyester filled look- a- likes but those that have at least a 600 tog rating which my newest North Face coat has. The odd feather that I find creeping out of the said same coat is proof that real birds were involved.
So for the young and warm-blooded the perennial Parka will do just fine, I’m a Puffa person myself!
I couldn’t help buying my first Christmas decoration yesterday. For the princely sum of €2 I bought a reindeer antler head for Riley. I know Nicky, pure madness,but I’m certainly going to laugh and smile my way through this one, (albeit through gritted teeth at times!)
The Music Therapy Service at the National rehabilitation Hospital in Dunlaoire is very close to my heart and this year the International Charity Bazaar has listed them as one of the beneficiaries of this great event. If you are interested in goods and food from around the world then this is the place to buy some of your gifts. All the embassies in Ireland take part so what you get is a cornucopia and eclectic glimpses of the different countries and all parked in a Dublin Hotel for one day. (my reindeer headband doesn’t seem quite so odd now)
