Stripes, pastels, prints or pleats – for spring and summer multiple choices can be overwhelming. Colours this season are exuberant or muted, from vintage florals to saturated primary shades with every kind of graphic print thrown into the mix. Trousers are fluid with sporty racing stripes continuing their popularity in elongating the leg but in chic pale blue suits they are narrow and slim. (Watch dry cleaning bills with pastels).
Here are a selection of easygoing, fuss free and uncontrived especially coming into summer:
Lengths vary – fashion’s new spirit means that hemlines vary though the midi skirt predominates – those with wide hips should opt for a high rise cut, which is more flattering while choice of fabric can make a big difference – pleats (matched with a hoodie) create a satisfying swish and denim a utility workmanlike look worn with trainers.
Head to toe graphic stripes can be dizzying, but a blue and white heart print dress makes an impact in a different way. As Arnotts fashion director Valerie O Neill said at their spring show, “there is something for everyone, short hemlines, long hemlines, shorts, skirts and suits”.
One of the easiest ways to wear both the midi and slouchy trousers or cargoes is one over the other in a modern version of the shalwar kameez, the traditional Indian ensemble, and discover how versatile, comfortable it can look in a less decorative style and in colours more suited to European taste as shown in this red sleeveless dress worn over go faster striped trousers.
As for florals, when applied to wrap dresses in desirable prints, they continue their inexhaustible appeal, any sweetness anchored with mannish brogues. In this shoot the comfort and relaxed vibe of the fashion is also expressed in Arnotts furniture highlighting American West Elm sofas and coffee tables photographed together in the Grey Area Studio.
- All clothes, accessories and furniture from Arnotts, Henry Street, Dublin
- Photographer: Louise Samuelsen assisted by George Voronov
- Model: Vanessa O Connell @Distinct Management,
- Creative director and stylist: Paula Hughes assisted by Pamela Nelson
- Hair stylist: Stephen Kelly for Zeba
- Make-up: Lesle Keane for Mac
