Your Guide to Dressing for the Dublin Fashion Festival
Written by As the kick-off date for the highly anticipated Dublin Fashion Festival is fast approaching, there’s a very important issue at hand; what are we going to wear?
The festival’s main events will take place through a mixture of indoor and outdoor venues and locations. This means outfit preparation is key, particularly due to the uncertain weather conditions we are now accustomed to. Here are a few guidelines to remain a head of the rest when attending these events.
- The Outdoor Fashion Shows
The fashion shows taking place on both Grafton and Henry Street are sure to be a great experience for all who attend. It is important however to be prepared for the infamous Irish weather. Thanks to the wonderful Dublin shops, being stylish and ready for the weather will not be a problem.
Pop in to H&M or River Island and grab one of the many stylish hats they now have on offer. These statement hats will not only instantly boost your style cred, it will also ensure you’re kept warm and dry not to mention extra fabulous.
If you’re unsure about wearing a heavy coat but don’t necessarily want to brave the elements without one, then River Island has the perfect option for your predicament. The new tartan cape, as seen above, is currently on offer in store and ticks all the right style boxes.
Choosing this cape is the perfect in-between option for those who want something to wrap around them but don’t want the full force of a winter coat. Let’s cling on to these last few weeks of not needing to wear heavy layers!
Boots will be your friend during these outdoor fashion events. Zara and River Island are on point with their new season footwear. Now is the right time to start investing in boots for the Autumn / Winter seasons, giving you plenty of time to show them off.
- Young Designer of the Year
This is one of the biggest fashion shows taking place in Ireland. It is therefore necessary for us viewers to look our best whilst emerging Irish designers showcase their talent. This event is the perfect excuse to invest in some key pieces that will not only leave you looking and feeling amazing but that will last you into next year.
A classic black dress is a style staple that every girl needs. The one pictured is from Brown Thomas and can be worn in many different ways for different events. It is something you will have forever. The boucle jacket from River Island and the stiletto court shoes from Zara can also be worn to achieve various different styles. The pop of colour from the H&M bag and the YSL lipstick (available from Brown Thomas) will ensure you’re packing a colour punch as well as rocking the classic monochrome colours.
- Creative Quarter Fashion Show
This glamorous event is set to take place in the picturesque Powerscourt Townhouse, which acts as the perfect location to showcase the eclectic pieces the Creative Quarter has to offer. Attendance at this event requires formal attire. It’s the perfect excuse for us ladies to get glammed up. This event offers viewers the chance to stray away from their normal style and try something different. Why not embrace your unique and stylish surroundings and wear something a little different. Take inspiration from the boutiques present in the Creative Quarter. This beautiful dress from OM diva is the perfect feminine piece.
If you want to opt for a simple dress, then dress it up with some accessories from the creative quarter itself. Dirty Fabulous, Jenny Vander and Rhinestones are perfect for finding some beautiful statement earrings, necklaces and handbags.
Adding vintage inspired accessories, such as lace gloves and a faux fur shawl, to a simple dress is sure to be a success. Hats and Hair fascinators will also add a touch of Gatsby glamour to your look, perfectly fitting to the event itself. This beaded blazer from Siopaella is also perfect for adding a unique twist to a glamorous outfit.
Here are some of the looks I have put together which could be worn to either of the glamorous catwalk shows taking place on the Thursday and Friday evenings.
The classic glamour look draws inspiration from the Gatsby style. It offers a timeless appeal with each individual piece being extremely versatile, making it a good investment. The top and shoulder harness are both River Island, while the bag and shoes are from Zara and Ted Baker respectively.
The Sophisticated Chic look involves the use of a minimal mustard dress paired with a classic T-bar stiletto, both from H&M. The beaded neck piece (River Island) combined with the clashing embellished fascinator (Carol Kennelly) to create an opulent and charming appeal.
The Colour Pop look will ensure you are noticed amongst the crowds. This striking blue dress adds bold colouring to a sophisticated outfit. The pink of the accessories will further enhance the rich hue. All items for this look were chosen from Ted Baker with exception to the earrings which are from River Island.
Zoe Behan, Dublin Fashion Festival Blogger.
