Suree Things

Outfit post...flashy!

2012-01-30T17:16:00.001-08:00

Had a manic day last Tuesday, was helping Joanne Hynes with a piece for Xposé then headed to the fabulous viewing of Dais II out in the Minerva Suite in the RDS. It's nice to walk into a room filled with so many people that you not only respect but actually really want to talk to. That was one of those nights. Well done to Sonya Lennon and Christian Ammann on another aesthetic wonder and to Christine Lucignano and Zara Cox for their unparalleled talent, vision and drive...I don't know how they do it!
Waxed jeans from Zara, Denim shirt River Island, Neckpiece Joanne Hynes, Vintage fur jacket gifted by Nay.

Me aul flower

2012-01-14T14:58:00.000-08:00

How stunning is this shoot? Shot for Dazed&Confused magazine. LOVE!

I love Paris full stop.

2012-01-11T06:39:00.000-08:00

I spent the weekend in Paris with my ladies. We had a list of recommendations from friends and family that didn't disappoint. We stayed in Arvor St.Georges in Pigalle again(the same place I stayed with Conor a couple of years ago) and I'm happy to say that it was as nice this time as the last and it's so central!

We just stayed local the first night starting in Hotel Amour and then moving on to wherever the wind took us...in other words I don't remember! Saturday was spent in the markets near Clignancourt. Rue de Rosiers is home to the most amazing interior shops I have ever seen! Marché Dauphine housed beautiful vintage shops filled with vintage Chanel and Hermes, spent a small fortune but got some stunning one off pieces...for the trousseau, ye know?!

We dined at Anahi that night, an Argentinian restaurant run by two Spanish ladies in a converted butcher shop...hip? oui!full of beautiful people? oui, oui! I could have eaten a vat of the guacamole! Sunday was very relaxed, we had no choice as all the shops were closed. The girls headed to the Marais in the morning. I slept! I caught up with them at the Champs Elysees and we headed to Rue Montmartre for some french onion soup in a cosy bistrot! With half the group heading home it was just me and the birthday girl for wining and dining on Sunday night. We headed to Saint Germain to another restaurant recommendation, unfortunately Caffe Toscana was closed (apparently they serve THE best Tirimisu...SOB!I will be going back if just for that!) So we went to Les Deux Magots for a couple of glasses of Sancerre and the most delicious bowl of pasta! Monday was spent on Rue Saint Honore, with a quick flit into Collette (the only shop with a sale!!) and a quick flit into every The Kooples store we passed! We headed back to Mokuba on rue montmartre (ribbon heaven!) and stumbled upon a very cool vintage shop, there are different levels of vintage in Paris. This was a new vintage, as in from the 60's as the ones in Marche Dauphine were filled with clothing and accessories from the late 19th century! I managed to find something in both...some would call it a gift...

Here's our trip in pics!

Helen Steele's clothing collection SS12

2012-01-05T08:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year loyal reader, Naomi. So there is a reason I haven't been blogging, I changed the format of my blog and couldn't access it (yes I'm that stoopid!) Anyway I'M BA-ACK.

Now this has me very excited! Helen Steele's print-tastic clothing collection will be stocked in Costume boutique for SS12. 

I first came across Helen Steele's artwork about 10 years ago and instantly loved it, then I came across a picture of Helen Steele and instantly loved her look. When I decided to do a shoot in an artist's studio a couple of years later I instantly thought of Helen. So up we trekked to Silver Hill duck farm in Emyvale. Helen's studio is a converted duck hatchery (yes I know, how cool is that?) and Helen, and her kiddies, have the run of the place to be as creative and messy as they want. I remember when I was a child I drew a flower on my playroom wall and was grounded for a week!!!

 You should see this place it's like Willy Wonka's Paint factory! Anyway I really enjoyed meeting Helen on the day, she fed us the most delicious lunch and gave us hampers of duck to bring home. She also regalled us with hilarious tales of how a communist Chinese delegate fell in love with one of her very abstract paintings of lady parts and couldn't figure out why he liked it so much! Ok so you've guessed it by now, I have a girl crush on her!

 Helen's collaboration with Joanne Hynes seen on Nicola Roberts

 Helen Steele's SS12 collection being stocked in Costume

 www.helensteele.com

After the shoot, which unfortunately didn't turn out as I'd hoped at all, I kept an ear out for what she was upto as I knew she'd have something to do with the fashion world at some point. After collaborating with Harvery Nichols on their SS10 show, by painting the set and previewing a short on her work before the show, she then designed bracelets for the store. Then she cropped up again the following year, this time collaborating with design super star Joanne Hynes. Their collaboration for AW11 was brilliant, merging Joanne's design aesthetic with Helen's prints, they were the Peter Pilotto of Irish fashion. Current style heavyweight Nicola Roberts was a big fan, being seen sporting a couple of their looks!

So when I spotted that Costume would be stocking her W.A.R.T (wearable art) I got very excited!! She is one talented and stylish lady so I've no doubt her line will be a HUGE success! WATCH.THIS.SPACE

Sneak peak at my next editorial for U mag.

2011-12-11T12:33:00.001-08:00

Aoife K channeling Audrey Tatou/Hepburn. Shot by Johnny Savage. Out Tuesday week!

Christmas looks covered in this months U mag

2011-12-07T10:29:00.001-08:00

My Christmas party wear shoot in this week's U magazine. Shot by Johnny Savage.

Hair: Aimee Murphy, Make Up: Lara Ford.

'Snow Queen' editorial in this month's Irish Tatler

2011-12-07T09:24:00.001-08:00

Delighted with my new shoot in Irish Tatler, had a fantastic day shooting it. Barry McCall did an extraordinary job (as per usual) Model was the very beautiful and hilarious Chloé, hair: David Cashman make up: Paula Callan set design: Katy Delaney. My assistants: Jasmine Tedman and Ciara Hughes. Let me know what you think about it!

Stunning Kelly in my upcoming shoot for U mag

2011-12-05T16:10:00.001-08:00

My fave picks from the River Island Press day in London Nov 2012

2011-12-05T15:01:00.001-08:00

There were too many gorgeous pieces in the collection, It is my favourite River Island collection yet. Here's a sneak peak!

Top picks from Penneys Spring/Summer 2012 Press Day

2011-12-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

Topshop Spring/Summer 2012

2011-12-05T13:03:00.001-08:00

Watch this space for more details on my new business venture.

2011-11-17T13:51:00.001-08:00

Little Miss Moss

2011-11-13T15:18:00.001-08:00

This is the unbelievably beautiful THIRTEEN year old half-sister of Kate, what a stunner! Although I'm not sure I agree with her being so young...but what a face!!

Sorel snow boots!

2011-11-09T08:55:00.000-08:00

On location in my new sorel boots!

I went along to Fitzpatricks shoes on Grafton street the week before last for the launch of Sorel's A/W11 collection with something for everyone, male and female. Sorel boots have a serious celeb following with everyone from Elle to Jessica Simpson owning a pair. They are a must have for the winter and would make the best Christmas present, so cosy and warm and perfect for the crazy weather. I wore them on my shoot last week and by the end of the day everyone wanted a pair, my feet were bone dry and toasty...love it! Thank you Sorel for my new boots, I will wear them well.

It's been a while!

2011-11-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

 I've been a busy little bee, making plans and doing a little bit of shooting here and there! I need to take a moment to share with you some pics of our location last week.

I had this idea that I wanted to do something with a forest setting but with lots of interiors. So got the wonderful Katy Delaney on board to give me a hand on the props side of things, I liaised with Barry Mc Call (photographer) about location. I knew I needed a dramatic backdrop as I wanted to go down the whole McQueen route with the looks/model/hair and make up. I did a bit of research and then Barry blew me away with this little gem. Ladies and gentlemen, I introduce Ballintubbert Gardens, Stradbally, Co.Laois. 

A private house with a serious star past (Daniel Day Lewis, Sebastian Shaw and John Hurt to name drop!) It's now owned by a very young and handsome couple and they have invested a colossal amount in the gardens of the estate. They launched themselves as a wedding venue last summer, had I known this earlier I'd be booked in! Myself and the lovely model Chloe Hayward had the privilege of staying over the night before. We were spoilt rotten by Andrew the gardener, who told us all the scandalous tales, took us on a midnight tour of the grounds and cooked up a storm on the day of the shoot.  

The stunning lake out the front of the house

A few of me bits.

The only bird I'm ok with...

 My boudoir for the night

 Barry, Paul and Steve looking fresh at 7am.

 The beautiful Katy with the beautiful Kitty.

THE BIG TOP!!

 Watch out for the shoot in the December issue of Irish Tatler Magazine.

Newbridge Silverware campaign 2010

2011-10-22T04:46:00.000-07:00

Finally got my hands on these images from the Newbridge Campaign last year. Love this look! Hair: Stephen Kelly. Make Up Kate Synnott Styling: Me Dress: Phi from Covet!!!!

New boots!

2011-10-22T04:04:00.000-07:00

I'd like to be a Louis Vuitton girl this summer!

2011-10-12T13:25:00.000-07:00

Making McQueen Proud!

2011-10-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore what Sarah Burton has been doing at McQueen since his death. She has really shown what a close relationship they had and how inspired she was by him. This collection is fresh and original yet is still very much McQueen...you know what they say 'behind every great man...'

Amy Huberman in Style magazine

2011-10-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

I did a shoot with Amy Huberman for Style magazine a couple of weeks ago. I was so delighted to get the call and I finally got to work with Andreas Pettersson. I really enjoyed working with Amy again, she's so bubbley and good humoured.

Unfortunately they only used one image. Here are some of the others...

SUNDAY FUNDAY!

2011-10-02T13:42:00.001-07:00

Peter Mark campaign

2011-09-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

Styled a shoot for Peter Mark's 50th anniversary a couple of weeks ago, spotted one of the shots in a mag. I'm really happy with the way it turned out...looking forward to seeing the rest of the shots over the coming months! Happy Birthday Peter Mark.

My fave shot of Cecelia

2011-09-27T13:14:00.000-07:00

Love the movement of this shot from the shoot I styled for this months Tatler. Cecelia looked stunning in this 40's inspired Carven dress from Brown Thomas.

Charlotte Taylor Spring/Summer2012 video

2011-09-27T13:05:00.000-07:00

Since meeting Charlotte at London Fashion Week a couple of seasons ago I've been a huge fan of her designs. Check out this clever little video for her new collection.

http://vimeo.com/29086938

Cecelia Ahern cover shoot

2011-09-26T02:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the shots or Cecelia from the October issue of Tatler. Shot by Barry McCall. Hair Dylan Bradshaw, make up Paula Callan. Doesn't she look beautiful?!

Love this print...

2011-09-25T14:43:00.001-07:00

My new loves!

2011-09-25T14:42:00.000-07:00

Finally got my Isabels!! The beautiful girls in Costume made me an offer I couldn't refuse and now they're MINE! ALL MINE!!! I LOVE them so thank you girls...

Giles SS12

2011-09-20T06:31:00.000-07:00

The designers at LFW really seem to have stepped up their game! Effects of the recession perhaps?

 Well now isn't this pretty...

Burberry Prorsum SS12

2011-09-20T05:55:00.000-07:00

Christopher Bailey, the man who can do no wrong.
His whole collection is beautiful, aspirational, wearable, just magical!

Yes... to all of this

2011-09-20T05:46:00.000-07:00

Temperley SS12

Pete Pilotto SS12

2011-09-20T01:21:00.000-07:00

more floral embellishment...they must have gotten my memo!

I like this a lot! The fashion rockstars are back with their strongest collection yet. I've always loved their work and this season is no exception. Bravo handsome men!

Christopher Kane SS12

2011-09-20T01:14:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful light and airy collection, the perfect summer wear. I do love a floral embellishment!

Divine Delevigne

2011-09-20T01:07:00.000-07:00

 Oh to look so beautiful and effortless!

Monday!

2011-09-19T07:26:00.000-07:00


Running around town day.

Cardigan Topshop, snakeskin jeans(?!) Gap, diamond my luvah luvah, hightops Kurt Geiger, boring black top Zara.

Jenny Packham SS12

2011-09-15T23:45:00.000-07:00

Love every single bit of the collection

Trend shoot for Tatler's September Issue

2011-09-15T23:28:00.001-07:00

Did this Tavi inspired AW11 trend shoot back in August, just got the shots...whadd'ya think?

Shot by: Barry McCall Hair: David Cashman Make Up: Zoe Clark Nails: Pamela Laird

The FALL fair!

2011-09-15T23:23:00.000-07:00

Still not OK with this...
Top Kimchie and Blue, Shorts BDG, Sandals Urban Outfitters, Sunnies Chanel, Bag Awear, Watch Casio from American Apparel.

Outfit post...EEK!

2011-09-15T23:17:00.000-07:00

I'm not OK with this...
Jacket Zara, blouse Urban Outfitters, Jeans Topshop, Sunnies Chanel

Back from my travels...

2011-09-15T22:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been so quiet on the blogging of late but have been away in Canada for a couple of weeks and really needed to switch off from work...not that that happened of course! Have become quite obsessed with the BHLDN website (pronounced beholden) of late, it's given me a lot of inspiration. It's brought to us by the same people behind Anthropologie, so expect lots of vintage inspired wedding frocks, decor and jewellery it's well worth taking a look... And there's a cute little 'Lanvin-esque' vid at the beginning. I definitely want to be a BHLDN bride!
http://www.bhldn.com/index.cfm

Forever 21 Art Installation Press Day

2011-08-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Went along to the Forever 21 Press Day a couple of weeks ago and was thrilled to be greeted by the ever gorgeous Fiona Mullen (previously of Circus!) who is now an account manager for the brand. They had models wearing outfits from their new collection standing as interactive exhibition pieces, really cool idea. Collection looks great so well done to the guys at Thinkhouse for the original concept! Here are some snaps...

Xposé

2011-08-28T07:20:00.000-07:00

Watch my piece on stealing Amanda Byram's Tatler shoot style here...
http://www.tv3.ie/xpose.php?video=39417&locID=1.65.68

U mag debswear shoot

2011-08-28T06:53:00.000-07:00

Got to do this fab debswear editorial with Johnny McMillan recently. I always love working with Johnny, he's so easy to get on with and makes the shoots a lot of fun. Got to use the stunning Gracie and Heather from 1st Option. The hair was done by the super fabulous David Cashman and make up by the wonderful Julianna Grogan. Here are some of my fave shots from the day.

I want this skirt in my life.

2011-08-20T16:13:00.001-07:00

L'wren Scott

Penneys AW11

2011-08-02T06:34:00.000-07:00

I went along to the Penneys AW11 press day a few weeks ago. It was held in the beautiful 15 Stephen's Green (dream wedding location!) and was filled with the coolest vintage inspired looks in a myriad of colours from brights to jewel tones. Mix and match prints and patterns, gorgeous geek chic looks and sexier colour blocking looks. 70's are the main focus with some Marc Jacobs inspired looks and Louis Vuitton influences popping up here and there. I absolutely adored the campaign, stunning model, fantastic looks putting Penneys up there with the best on the high street.
Here are some of my faves...

Divine Boutique

2011-07-27T10:01:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I am a huge fan of Divine Boutique, ever since my first encounter with it's very beautiful and uber stylish owner Mary Greene. I first met Mary when I was assisting Catherine Condell and Sinead Keenan with the Off The Rails Live fashion shows. We were all hugely impressed when Mary arrived with all her looks labeled into themes and accessorised perfectly. She was a God send and it was obvious that this girl knew what she was doing!

A few years on and Divine is still going strong. Although Mary has had to drop some of her favourite labels (see by Chloe and Andersen&Lauth amongst others)favouring more exclusive and less expensive labels. She really knows what her customer wants (even if you walk in not wanting anything, Mary's outfit will change your mind!) and has such a passion and talent for what she does. You are guaranteed to find something unusual and beautiful, and similarly priced to Ted Baker or Reiss.

So if you're sick of worrying about turning up to an event wearing the same thing as someone else then look a little further then the high-street and check out Divine in Maynooth and Malahide!
Here are a couple of my favourite pieces from fab new label 'He Loved An Angel' being stocked for AW11 for more info log on to their facebook page here http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Divine-Boutique/285755941836

Joseph A/W11 press day

2011-07-26T04:11:00.000-07:00

Joseph has always been one of my favourite luxury labels. They make the best coats and trousers...FACT! The quality of their clothes is second to none. I love how this season they've jumped on the whole masculine/feminine trend. Nothing cooler then a girl in some cool menswear inspired pieces.

They did go through a bit of a design dip over recent seasons but thankfully they're back on form and have designed, in my opinion, one of the best AW11 collections. I could wear EVERYTHING, from the navy velvet suit with retro leather elbow patches to THAT shearling coat with leather sleeves...I'm a sucker for a leather sleeve! The cashmere jogging bottoms, the leather jacket with knit lining...I WANT IT ALL! Here's a few pics of what I'm ranting about...

The shearling coat! This is a 'behind the scenes' pic of my trend editorial for the Sept.issue of Irish Tatler!

Look at that jacket!!!!!!

New labels I'm loving for Arnotts AW11

2011-07-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

Andersen&Lauth is a fab ecclectic Icelandic label that used to be stocked in Divine boutique. It's quirky and pretty and very Scandinavian. I've always loved their campaigns and styling. It will be stocked in Arnotts for AW11

Dress €360

Hoss Intropia

I've always loved Hoss it's a real boutique label and has celebrity following in the form of the stunning model Helena Christensen. It's fantastic that Arnotts are going to be stocking it for AW as it has mass appeal. Here are some of my fave pieces for the season.

Coat €725

Dress €350Blouse €255€330 dress

Trina Turk

Pretty feminine vintage inspired pieces from this American Designer.

Dress €330

Dress €300

Mark and James

Fab new diffusion line from one of my favourite designers Badgley Mischka.

Skirt €280

Dress €300 Dress €210

Odd little exhibition at the Kevin Kavanagh gallery

2011-07-25T16:28:00.000-07:00

No idea what it's about but it's very cute!

 Work by artist: Vanessa Donoso López

Yummers

2011-07-21T15:04:00.000-07:00

Prada resort 2012

Wedding on the brain...

2011-07-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

Can I look like this on my wedding day please?

Irish Tatler cover shoot

2011-07-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

Got to work with the stunning actress Katie McGrath. She was so lovely and friendly and full of Hollywood goss! She's starring alongside Madonna in the upcoming film about Wallis Simpson's relationship with King Edward VIII (exciting stuff). She is currently starring in the fantasy adventure TV programme Merlin.
Here are the pics...

It's been a while....

2011-07-19T06:33:00.000-07:00

Hello, time for my (now monthly) blog update! Finally got the shots from the swimwer shoot I styled for the July issue of Irish Tatler and I just LOVE them. The whole idea was to make it look like a hot and steamy cabana in Havana. I love how some of the shots look like stills for a technicolour movie. Paul Canning did amazing work with the post production. We got Charlotte Carter Allen over to model (face of Newbridge and in Kanye's 'Flashing Lights' vid!) She is one hilariously bonkers bird and only agrees to do shoots if we get her pies for lunch.

Anyway here are the shots.
Photographer: Barry McCall
Stylist: Me
Hair: David Cashman
Make Up: Tom McInerney

Swimwear editorial for U magazine

2011-06-21T07:09:00.000-07:00

Shot this cute swimwear story with Johnny McMillan a couple of weeks ago. The theme was FUN! My prep included a couple of trips to Moore street to stock up on 2 euro toys, man they have everything a kid could want and more (great deals on soap). Thalia was our model and she leaped and laughed her way through the day. It was a lot of fun and we didn't even have a black sack full of sweets this time. See the video shot on the day by Mark Duggan and edited beautifully by the multi talented Mr. McMillan on Johnny's blog http://one25th.com/?p=1000

Marks and Spencer A/W11 Press Preview in London

2011-06-20T09:23:00.000-07:00

So I got another little treat last month when the girls in WHPR invited me along to the Marks and Spencer London Press Preview.
My favourite pieces included most of their outerwear and a fab Prada inspired paillette dress. It's great to see leather sleeves making it to the high street for Autumn/Winter (about time!!). Some amazing bags and shoes coming soon too, all the outfits were styled beautifully and it was great to get a sneak peak at the new Per Una Speziale range.
Marks have decided to merchandise their collections in trends rather then splitting them into brands like Per Una/Autograph etc. The buyers think this will be easier for their customer to shop the trends. It works for all other high street stores so it's great to see Marks so fashion forward!
The collection is influenced heavily by the 40's, 60's and 70's. The five key trends that M&S are focusing on are Luxe Craft (layering!) Historical Romance (frilly collars and leather!) Masculine/Feminine (tailoring) Retro Glamour (from 40's to 70's) and 60's pop (that Prada inspired dress!)
Here are some of my top picks...

Washed Up exhibition Selfridges

2011-06-20T04:49:00.000-07:00

I was over in London last month for the M&S A/W 11 press day (more on that in a moment!), the show space happened to be next door to Selfridges so myself and Catherine skipped in to check out the unbelievably beautiful 'Washed Up' exhibition in Selfridges, curated by Judith Clark. The exhibition is part of a campaign to create awareness about over-fishing and poor fishing practices. Partnering with over 20 environmental and conservation groups, the main goal was to celebrate the beauty of the ocean, help the general public understand the threats to the ocean and make positive choices about the right fish to buy and eat. It also showcased just how much the ocean inspires fashion and trends. Placed in glass tanks, ocean inspired, high profile designer pieces by the likes of Alexander McQueen and John Rocha were on display. Here are some of my fave pieces...

Coral seized from illegal smugglers at British customs

Alexander McQueen's Jellyfish dress

John Rocha's white reef dress

Iris Van Herpen, Radiation Invasion dress

Gareth Pugh's fishscale dress (as worn by Beyonce in Girls Vid)
The exhibition space (and Catherine)

The Octopus dress Mariel Manuel

Gaga's lobster hat, designed by another Irishman Philip Treacy

Hussein Chalayan's LED dress

Origami Top, Sandra Backlund

Prada A/W11 Campaign

2011-06-20T04:43:00.000-07:00

Received these images this morning. How do Prada always get it so right!! The textures, the colours, the girls, the make up...LOVE!

Zadig&Voltaire

2011-05-16T06:50:00.000-07:00

Zadig is a label synonymous with cool chic parisienne street wear. It hit our shores a few seasons back when the clever girls in Costume fell in love with the relaxed look and feel of the brand. And so Brown Thomas weren't far behind and two months ago began stocking the uber cool brand.
It has quite a cult following these days with off duty models and stylists often being snapped wearing their leather jackets or cashmere knits. The brand is all about mixing and matching luxurious textures but in an unassuming grungey way. This girl has money but she doesn't care if you know or not!
I got to meet with the brand manager Carole Fenon last Friday and she gave me the lowdown on the brand's aesthetic and how to be a Zadig girl. Team suede distressed cowboy boots with leather trousers and a cashmere poncho topped off with some statement heavy duty jewellery and you'll be Zadigazzled!
They've also just upped their cool a notch by getting the ridiculously stylish model Erin Wasson as the face for their SS11 campaign. She epitomises the Zadig girl, relaxed, unpolished slightly androgynous and unashamedly sexy.
Check out their boutique on level two in Brown Thomas where they not only stock all the SS clothing, but also divine leather bags, watches, jewellery and one of their fab fragrances.

Brown Thomas celebrates IMMA's 20th anniversary!

2011-05-16T06:19:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I'm a big fan of the marriage between fashion and art, so when i received the news that Brown Thomas are currently celebrating the creative talents of leading members in both fields I had to blog about it. 'Art Of Fashion' is a unique collaboration which honours artists Louis Le Brocquy, Sean Scully, William Crozier, Philip Taafee, Perry Ogden and Alan Phelan, to name but a few. The windows will be housing art installations from now until the end of May. Good on ye BT's!!!

Editorial for June Issue of Irish Tatler

2011-05-16T05:05:00.000-07:00

Here are some behind the scenes shots from my recent editorial for Irish Tatler. Mike Bunn was the photographer, he picked some magical locations in Sligo and Leitrim. We wanted the model to look like a woodland creature or mayfly that just comes alive for one day. It was an amazing experience to work with the legend that is Mike Bunn, his wonderful story telling and love of art is truely inspiring.

Holidays!

2011-05-16T04:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry about my lack of posts recently but work has been very quiet so I went on me holiers! Spent a week in Madrid drinking Sangria and eating my weight in Tapas. Fave spots were the Prado museum and the lake in Retiro Park ;)

Prado Museum

Retiro Park

I fell in love with these two paintings by Spanish artists Antonio Fabres y Costa and José Tipiri y Baro.

If Carlsberg did press days...

2011-04-14T13:04:00.000-07:00

I just had the most exciting day all thanks to Emma Bolger and all the guys in the River Island press office. A car picked me up at 6.30 this morn to take me and the lovely Naoimh Wilkins (Prudence mag.) to the airport, there we met up with the rest of our party...Corina from Stellar and Emma from the Dublin press office. We then boarded our flight to foggy London town.

On our arrival we were greeted by our driver who took us to River Island HQ. There we met up with the very gorgeous Mez who gave us a tour of the fantastic building filled with an unbelievable amount of talented and very cool designers. It was so fab to get a 'behind the scenes' look into such a huge part of the fashion industry.

We then hopped in another car that whisked us into the press event off Oxford street. It was like stepping into a vintage store, so many fantastic vintage inspired pieces with such an emphasis on authentic details. Gorgeous maxi dresses, high waisted flares and print are key pieces of the trend. Outerwear is plaid or aviator style. RI is also introducing a lot of long line coats which I absolutely love! Fur is there, cable knit, wool trousers...they must be preparing for a cold winter ahead! One thing about River Island that I just cannot resist is their footwear. Every season they get it so right. In my opinion they have the best footwear on the highstreet. We sipped campari cocktails before heading off for a delicious steak lunch @ Dean Street Townhouse before we made a trolley dash around the Oxford Street River Island to speed buy some treats!

What a way to spend a Thursday, I could definitely get used to that life! Oh and their campaign and look book is their best yet.

Here are some pics...

One of the RI press team looking very cool in head to toe print

LOVE this metallic skirt!

Corina and some print pantsLove the rib collar shearling.

and this check crombie coat!

Amazing accessories!!!

AND THE SHOES....

Fab statement necklace

LUNCH TIME...

Kalu in store fashion show.

2011-04-13T12:15:00.000-07:00

I've always been a huge fan of Emporium Kalu, Naas. It is just the most beautiful boutique and Kate and Louise have such amazing taste. They carry so many fantastic labels and beautiful clothing.
I had the pleasure of getting to see their Spring/Summer Capsule Collection Fashion Show this morning. The girls have always been so good to me when I'm pulling clothing for shoots and send me stunning pieces so I was more then happy to have an excuse to see their new stock, and I was not disappointed. They have stayed true to themselves and stuck to their original vision of supplying their customers with fantastic designs and labels to 'transform the wearer in both body and mind'. Today they were focusing on four labels, Giles (Deacon), Vivienne Westwood, Missoni M and Maria Grachvogel. Here are some of my fave looks.

Workwear editorial for Irish Tatler OUT TODAY!

2011-04-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

Photographer: Liam Murphy
Styled by: Me

Accessories editorial Tatler May issue OUT TODAY!

2011-04-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

Photographer: Johnny McMillan
Styled by : Me

Buffalo Summer Press Preview!

2011-04-12T07:50:00.000-07:00

Headed along to the Buffalo press preview this morning, lots of yummy shoes (and food!) to start the day. They've got all your summer footwear needs covered, from 1970's style wedges to colourful kitten heels, It's a one stop shop!

Here's a few of my faves.

These United Nude shoe boots are DIVINE and come is lots of very cool summer shades.
The new additions from shoe genius Kat Maconie are too gorgeous for words. I will be purchasing these bad boys when they hit the store...

I'm going to say something controversial...

2011-04-11T05:57:00.000-07:00

Prada

Marc Jacobs

Marni
Jonathan Saunders

Fendi

Dries

...as much as I'm loving the sunny weather, the Autumn/Winter 2011 collections have been day-dreaming of layering up, just a little!

A lovely sunny Friday look!

2011-04-08T05:54:00.000-07:00

Frida Kahlo

2011-04-07T03:37:00.000-07:00

I went to the opening of the Friday Kahlo exhibition the other night. It was so amazing to see the paintings up close. She is one of the best known faces of Modern Art (not always for the right reasons) but someone who I know nothing about. After seeing the exhibition I definitely want to learn more about her.
One of my favourite fashion shoots for the season was based on Frida. I think it's a wonderful homage to her and marries fashion and art beautifully, all the looks are so current so it really highlights the link between the S/S11 trends and art history.
Although it's an idea that we've seen before I think this is the most impressive take on the Frida theme. Well done Marie Claire Italia!

Love those jeans!

2011-03-15T02:13:00.000-07:00

Madrid in 5 weeks!!!! You will find me here...

2011-03-15T02:03:00.000-07:00

summer nails

2011-03-15T01:36:00.000-07:00

Ruby

2011-03-15T01:30:00.000-07:00

Alexa

2011-03-15T01:27:00.000-07:00

Street Style for U mag.

2011-03-14T03:49:00.001-07:00

Shot by: Johnny McMillan
Styled by: Me
Hair: David Cashman
Make Up: Kate Synnott
Model: Laura Keohane @ Morgan

Fab new Spring/Summer campaign for Karen Millen

2011-03-14T03:43:00.000-07:00

Prada launch new luggage range

2011-03-14T03:37:00.000-07:00

Louis Vuitton Pre-Fall 11

2011-03-14T02:47:00.001-07:00

Some looks I love from the pre-fall collection.

Eudon Choi

2011-03-12T09:33:00.000-08:00

I met this lovely designer last year at London Fashion Week. I was blown away by his collection and his humility. This jacket is just too cool for words! He is definitely 'one to watch'.

Ooo-er! Valentino A/W11

2011-03-09T04:11:00.000-08:00

Ethereal and lady-like, Valentino has found the perfect combo. Luxurious day wear has been brought to a whole new level with the most delicate fabrics and stunning cuts. Sheer lace, leather, fur and snakeskin were shown in the most sophisticated way. Definitely a look to be emulating and with such light and airy looks it might have to be sooner then A/W11.

March Trend editorial for Irish Tatler

2011-03-09T04:05:00.000-08:00

Photographer: Daniel Holfeld
Styled by: Me
Hair: David Cashman
Make Up: Christine Lucignano using Chanel Spring 11
Photographer's assistant: Deirdre Poole
Stylist's assistants: Jessica Bowen and Franzi Hensel
Model: Hanna Paat @ Premier

Phoebe Philo can do no wrong!

2011-03-07T01:51:00.001-08:00

I adore the coats at Celine for A/W 11, oh to be rich! I look forward to seeing what she's up to every season. One of the most exciting and talented designers out there at the moment...in my humble opinion...look at those trousers and that hair, stunning!!!

WANT!

2011-03-07T01:50:00.000-08:00

Stars

2011-02-28T05:28:00.000-08:00

Stars are back for A/W11 and I just threw out my favourite 'Merlin the Wizard' dress...how annoying!

April Editorial

2011-02-26T08:13:00.000-08:00

Took a little road trip to Wexford on Thursday to shoot for the April issue of Irish Tatler. It was a print story, I wanted to use all the strong prints and try to get in as many hints of neon as possible. I didn't want it to look too summery though so the idea was to light each shot as if it was studio lit so the background was very dark and textured and the foreground had pops of colour and vibrancy. Model for the day was the fabulous Thalia from Morgan (who is barely 16!!). She was such a trooper as the weather was pretty pants all day. Barry McCall shot it with Paula Callan on make up and David Cashman on hair. These are just my snaps that don't really do it justice as the lighting was key!

U magazine street style editorial

2011-02-11T01:24:00.000-08:00

Cover shoot behind the scenes

2011-02-11T01:17:00.000-08:00

Behind the scenes on March Tatler trend editorial

2011-02-11T01:10:00.001-08:00

Mag out next week

David doing his thing!

Lovely looks for Spring/Summer on the highstreet

2011-02-08T12:00:00.001-08:00

Marks and Spencer

Warehouse

Zara

River Island

Gestuz

3.1Phillip Lim

Penneys (styled by our own Amazing Paula Hughes, photographed by Andreas Petterson)

ASOS

SS11

2010-12-24T11:48:00.000-08:00

My SECOND fave trend of SS11 is the sheer trend especially sheer skirts and maxi dresses. The first one, by the ever amazing John Rocha, is perfection! Followed close by this one by Hannah Marshall...divine!!

I covet all of this!

2010-12-24T11:41:00.001-08:00

December Editorial

2010-12-20T17:31:00.000-08:00

Got my hands on the images from my editorial for Irish Tatler, so great to see them in high resolution! Just love it.

Fantastic job done by Liam Murphy...AGAIN! My fave girls Christine Lucignano and Zara Cox on make up and hair, showed their exceptional talents!

This one was a labour of love and began with me having an idea of the models looking like they had just been unpacked from these crates to make them look like pieces of art.

The idea for the hair came entirely from the genius Zara Cox. I had seen her work her magic with wigs at the Wella Trend show a few months ago and decided then and there that we had to do a shoot that gave her complete artistic control over the hair. Christine went all out with the make up and did a stunning job. Myself and Liamo managed to persuade a carpenter on the long mile road to knock up the crates for us (for free!) thank you Precision Box! I sourced the upholstery stuffing in Zhivago out in Finglas (thank you Christine for your wonderful researching!) The girls in Tatler Towers played a blinder and found the location for us VERY last minute.

We shot it on the Sunday of Halloween and spent a good 12 hours in the freezing cold. Danielle and Amber from Morgan did such an amazing job and didn't complain once (they must have been cursing me!) I had FOUR assistants on the day. Shane, Jessie, Karrie and Paula thank you so much. Paula did a brill job helping me with the set and is probably still trying to get the spray mount and stuffing off her hands!!!

Hope you like!

Camel and teal for Off The Rails

2010-12-16T06:24:00.000-08:00

WANT!

2010-12-16T06:11:00.000-08:00

I adore everything about this image....

I adore blues and camel hues....

colour and neutrals...yummy!

LOVE!!!!

2010-12-16T04:40:00.001-08:00

courtesy of fashiongonerogue

Shoot for Dresscode

2010-12-16T03:30:00.000-08:00

Did a nice little shoot for my housemates label Dresscode. They are launching a bridal and bridesmaid collection in Hickeys on Henry street in the New Year. Here are some of my fave shots from the day.

Scans from my current editorial for Irish Tatler

2010-12-12T11:58:00.000-08:00

2010-12-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

I then slipped and slid down to The Morrison for The Communications Store Press Day. Showcasing pieces from some of my favourite design labels, Hoss Intropia, L'Agence, Aquascutum, Aristoc, J.Brand, Jaeger, Pretty Polly and Orlebar Brown.
Here are some goodies that took my fancy!

Hoss Intropia

Hoss accessories

J Brand jeans

Jaeger

Fab label L'Agence stocked in Brown Thomas

Penneys Spring 11 Press day!

2010-12-04T08:15:00.000-08:00

I braved the snow on Tuesday to attend the Penneys Spring preview. It was a bit weird to be looking at all the flimsy spring fashion while my teeth were chattering and icicles were hanging out of my nose but by the end of it I was feeling toasty and could nearly remember what summer felt like. I was so impressed by the quality, design and detail of the collections.

Here are some of my faves...

Lots of fab vintage inspired bags... and denim with a girly twist

Fantastic designer inspired clashing prints in their 'Brighton Pier' collection

My favourite look of the new collection,a printed 50's style dress. I adore the colours aqua and camel...my faves!

More stunning vintage prints in their garden party collection.

Christmas Windows!

2010-11-29T11:15:00.000-08:00

Won't get over to London this side of Chrimbo to gaze at all the fab window and instore Christmas displays. Here are a few of my faves...

Christmas lights

Harrods
Diesel

Selfridges

Topshop's snow globe

Cartier

Lanvin hearts H&M

2010-11-25T10:45:00.000-08:00

May have gone slightly overboard...

LANVIN FOR H&M. SEE THE FULL COLLECTION AT HM.COM