Fashion Advice from ‘Lousha’ – April 2006

Traditionally, the Easter bonnet was sported for church on Easter Sunday. Whilst we may no longer wear the infamous bonnet, accessories have never been as popular for Irish ladies.

Almost every boutique in every small town in Ireland has become a one-stop-shop for belts, handbags, jewellery, scarves, and even footwear these days! A smart shopper will co-ordinate her entire outfit under the one roof and thus avoid the hassle of trudging from shop to shop in the city. Handbag wise, fashionistas are sporting the over-sized bag this season. This is ideal for your average woman, as we all know what a lot we need to carry in our handbags!

On the catwalks, the designers have tightened their belts (quite literally) putting a new emphasis on the waist for sexy curves! You can adapt this look by teaming a chunky belt with a nice floaty summer dress or skirt.

Jewellery-wise, neckpieces in particular are ever popular. If we are having a bad day when none of our clothes seem to fit, a beautiful necklace can add life to our clothing and bring colours together.

Neckpieces can be bought quite inexpensively now. However, with so many on the market, there is a trend for savy women to invest in a special piece from a more unique range. Why not use a present of a gift voucher as a start to purchasing a gorgeous piece? Irish women like to express their wonderful personalities through their jewellery.

We are also getting more confident with wearing colour and love pretty colourful scarves. These have just arrived in the boutiques for the spring and the Italians in particular do very stylish scarves starting for as little as €15. Express your inner self through colourful accessories.

As Coco Chanel so aptly put it “adornment is never anything but a reflection of the self’.

This article was first published in Athenry News and Views in April 2006