Sightseeing Dublin with a Difference: The Lost Fashion History Tour.

Taking the opportunity to be a ‘Tourist in my City’ is one of my favourite ways to continuously explore the city I was born in, the city I call home, Dublin. There is an abundance of things to do here including some fantastic tours and I have been digging around looking for some speciality gems to bring to you!

The Tour:
The last weeknd of July saw me seize the opportunity to finally indulge in a gem of a tour that has long been on my “to do” list! The ‘Lost Fashion History Tour of Dublin’ run by Fashion Historian Ruth Griffin takes visitors through you guessed it, Dublin’s Lost Fashion History delving into and celebrating Dublin’s stylish past. Ruth sets about highlighting Dublin as a ‘Fashion Destination’ from the get-go, introducing attendees to the rich heritage and Irish fashion influence of the day from Georgian times through to present day.

{Pictured: in the National Gallery of Ireland – painting of Lady Lavery wearing a head scarf thus starting a fashion trend in Ireland.}

Fashion Moments on Merrion Square:

The tours typically take place on Saturday afternoons at various times throughout the year. They take in several areas of Dublin city uncovering their lost fashion signifigance. I opted for the Merrion Square tour. Our first fashion encounter on the tour was the National Gallery of Ireland. Here we learned of Lady Lavery’s influence on fashion trends in Georgian Dublin.

Who is Lady Lavery you ask?

The wife of renowned Irish portrait painter Sir John Lavery,  Lady Lavery saw her image grace the £50 note of the Irish Free State established in 1922 when her husband was commissioned to produce an image of the female personification of Ireland. Her image remaine on notes in ciirculation until the 1970’s and she remained as a watermark until 2002 when the Euro currency became legal tender in Ireland.

A stop at Dublin treasure Swenys Pharmacy is included on the tour. Featured in James Joyce’s Ulysess and described in great detail, (a description that stands to this day) this historical hub is now run by volunteers who preserve the shop as it was in Joyce’s time. Expect second hand books and daily readings of Joyce’s works. You can also pick up some lemony soap which made the shop famous, all proceeds from items sold go towards the preservation of this literary landmark.  Here we enjoyed a back story to the store and a tune courtesy of PJ (left of picture below in white pharmacist coat) that was popular in Joycean times. This stop proved a popular spot on the tour!

{Pictured: Ruth reading an excerpt from James Joyce‘s famed book Ulysses. The excerpt focused on Joyce’s detailed description of ladies fashion at the time Edwardian in style.}

{Pictured: PJ of Sweny’s Pharmacy Dublin giving us a rendition of a Joycean tune which was sung at the time of James Joyce.}

{Pictured: infamous Leopold Bloom‘s ‘Lemony soap‘ still sold in Sweny’s to this day.}

{Pictured: Statue of Oscar Wilde, overlooking his former home in Dublin.}

{Pictured: Ruth regaled us with tales of Jackie Kennedy embracing and indeed wearing, Irish Fashion  – on the doorsteps of the former home of renowned Irish Fashion designer Sybil Connolly.}

{Pictured: Renowned Irish designer Sybil Connolly sporting a green felt ‘leprechaun’ hat (now seen as offensive terminology) upon her arrival in New York just days before St. Patrick’s Day – nevertheless her wearing of this style of hat started a fashion trend in the U.S.}

{Pictured: a Sybil Connolly dress – 1950’s Dublin.  FUN FACT: Jackie Kennedy wore a Sybil Connolly piece for her White House portrait.}

{Pictured: ‘The Three Lives of Irish Linen’ by Sybil Connolly.}

Giving it Welly:

We rounded off the tour with exclusive access to the Duke of Wellington‘s House, located in the stunning 5* Merrion Hotel, Dublin. The Merrion Hotel consists of 4 townhouses combined to house hotel accommodation, one of these town houses formerly home to the Duke.

{Pictured: Bust of the Duke of Wellington located in the Merrion Hotel, Dublin.}

The Duke of Wellington, a military man tired of tasselled military boots, redesigned the boots in leather and streamlined the look of them with a tighter cut to the calf. Later this streamlined version became the rubberised version we are familiar with today.

{Pictured: Delicious Fish & chip supper done ‘The 5* Merrion way’. Good sized portions, reasonably priced for a 5* location.}

The tour wrapped up in the majestic 5* Merrion Hotel where most of the group said their goodbyes and disbanded. A few of us remained and enjoyed after tour drinks (not included in tour price) with Ruth and relived the tour whilst having the craic!

The tour gets a big two thumbs up from me, I cannot recommend it enough. Packed full of historical knowledge and fashionable facts, the tour takes about 2 hours to complete and is a lovely way to while away an afternoon in Dublin. I thoroughly enjoyed it as did my Mom who accompanied me and we’re already looking forward to the next one! With tours priced at just €15 p/p visitors and locals alike will no doubt enjoy! You can visit Ruth’s website for more information and if you book a tour remember to tell Ruth I sent ya!

Until next time…

Gail. x

Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

#NYFW 2017 HAIR TREND REPORT: Ladies Day/Wedding/Festival Hair Inspo with Aveda!

Best–tressed: Summer got you thinking of fresh, new hairstyles? With various Festivals & Ladies Days approaching and the summer wedding season upon us, check out my round-up of the latest hair trends straight from the catwalks of New York Fashion Week via Aveda featuring looks from shows via Public School, Hellessy, TOME and Tibi. Up do’s and piecey looks feature highly as well as embracing the natural state of the hair and building upon it, perfect summer styling for summer occasions!

*Not sponsored.

Public School:

Hellessy:

Effortless sleek, shiny low ponytails rocked the catwalk at the Hellessy show. Low key style allowing your outfit or makeup do the talking.

One of my favourites and a 5* product from Aveda is the Shampure Dry Shampoo which I was introduced to during a complimentary hair consultation provided by Aveda in Brown Thomas, Dublin. This stuff is incredible, soaks up grease like a dream, restores some shine to the hair, gives some volume and lasts forever! Another bonus? Travel friendly due to its smart packaging.

The Makeup:

Radiant, luminous, muted, natural looking makeup perfectly compliments the natural state of the hair in the looks shown allowing the hair to be the star of the show. Aveda have some beautiful offerings from their makeup range including their lipsticks and blush shades. 

TOME: Antoinette Beenders for Aveda.

The natural nature of the hair was embraced and showcased at the TOME show.

Tibi: Frank Rizzieri for Aveda.

Fuller, thicker, face framing looks abound with Tibi.

Next on my list to try is the Thickening Tonic!

What New York Fashion Week look caught your eye? Let me know! Catch me on my Social Media •Twitter: DublinGail •Instagram: littlegforce •Snapchat: DublinGail •Facebook: GlamForce Blog by Gail O‘Connor.

I’m loving the sleek low–ponytails and the fuller face framing looks – the perfect blend of extremes creating a very different look for your tresses whatever the event!

You can also purchase Aveda Hair Hero products in Travel size – perfect for ‘on the go’ touch ups or pop them in your hand luggage for incredibly nourished tresses whilst on holiday. Aveda products are available at Brown Thomas Dublin and have a styling salon located on the premises also.

Thanks for stopping by…until next time!

Gail. x

Photography: courtesy & © of Aveda, with thanks.

*Not sponsored.

Travel Diaries: Historic Steam Train Journeys!

The Railway Children:

Recently, I finally got to step back in time and tick something off my ‘travel experiences’ list that is on most fellow train and railway enthusiasts lists – to journey on a historic Steam Train. Not only that, but journey along one of Ireland’s most scenic railway routes along the East coast, so revered for its beauty that it has seen renowned train enthusiastic Michael Portillo take his programme Great British Railway Journeys to Ireland and grace the line with his presence. Armed with his trusty Bradshaw‘s Handbook, as featured on Season 8 of the BBC programme, he featured the Wexford to Wicklow portion of this railway line including the scenic ‘Meeting of the Waters’ in Avoca, Co. Wicklow.

The Excursion: Railway Preservation Society of Ireland‘s: Steam Train Excursion aboard the ‘Sea Breeze’ train.

The Date: Sunday July 9th, 2017.

The Route: Dublin to Arklow Co.Wexford – East Coast Railway Tour.

*Content is not sponsored.

The Railway Children was childhood staple reading material for me alongside the original film with Jenny Agutter which remains a firm favourite. I never fail to watch it any chance I get!

We started the day with copious excitement, meeting the steam train at Dublin‘s Connolly station. I’ve always had a love affair with trains. Day trips (or longer) aboard trains were commonplace childhood traditions for me. I find the “click, click, clack, clack” of the train travelling along the tracks soothing and relaxing, however I was sad to learn that this type of track is gradually being replaced and that the Dublin to Wexford line is one of the last in the country that you can still hear that sound nostalgically reverberating between carriages.

The opportunity to travel aboard the ‘Sea Breeze‘ Steam Train was truly a unique experience and one that will be cherished! I booked the trip as a Father’s Day present, as my Dad has longed to go on a steam train journey for as long as I can remember. My niece and Mom also came along to create some special memories. I’m forever grateful to the staff of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland for giving me VIP Access upon learning that I was Travel Media. The team went above and beyond to accommodate my reporting needs!

{Pictured: footage captured, reporting done – feeling inspired and living my dream of enjoying the incredible views of the Eastern seaboard, aboard the ‘Sea Breeze’ Steam Train.}

Do The Locomotive:

On this ‘all access‘ trip I was treated to exclusive access to several different viewing points in order to record pictures & video without unwanted distractions and background audio in order to get a clear audio of the true screech of a steam train whistle! I also hopped on board the Locomotive to experience what it was like inside, how many operators it fit and get a real feel of the heat inside due to the primed furnace, for myself. Blessed with a rare blisteringly hot day in the sunny southeast, I felt a bit bad for these guys working in such oppressive heat both inside and out!

Check out my video footage on my Facebook page GlamForce Blog by Gail O’Connor and Instagram: @littlegforce for EXCLUSIVE video footage from the day!

{Pictured: Above – Victoriana views from the inside of the Locomotive. Below – Selfie opportunity aboard the Locomotive!}

{Pictured: Locomotive like the Sea Breeze used for our excursion. *Photo courtesy of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland.}

What’s on Offer?

Facilities: are kept to a minimum and include bar and snack services (including some hot food options) and of course lavatories. I had opted to not avail of these services instead opting to bring some snacks from home and available of  a lunch stop at our destination.

There is also a raffle held on board going to and coming from destinations as well as posters for sale.

》NOTE: There is NO overnight availability on these particular excursions however if you’re looking for that option you may like to explore the recently launched ‘Belmond‘ complete with Silver Service it’s Ireland‘s answer to the Orient Express!

{Pictured: images on board the steam train of other locomotives in the fleet}. 

PICTURE THIS!

Picture Gallery: Views to be enjoyed on the Dublin to Wexford Railway Journey!

{Pictured: The infamous chimneys of Poolbeg – an iconic sight dotted on the skyline of Dublin.}

{Pictured: views from the steam train of Ireland‘s Riviera, featuring Killiney Bay & Beach – with Bray head and Greystones in the distance.}

{Pictured: murals featured on the wall at Platform Two of Bray Train Station – erected in 1987 the outcome of a community arts competition won by then student artists John Carter and Jay Roche. The murals depict various eras of Irish History and Irish Railway History from the opening of the train station in the 1852 up to the 1980’s. The murals were recently restored in 2008 and updated from mural to mosaic when it was discovered that lime was seeping into them. Visit Mural to Mosaic to see how the work is progressing.}

{Pictured: views from the steam train along the Bray to Greystones railway route. }

Continuing along the line after the pretty coastal village of Greystones passengers are treated to picturesque views of the Sugarloaf mountain in Wicklow, as well as a glimpse at typical countryside scenes such as hay stacks, sheep, cattle and horses grazing on the Western facing side of the train, topping it off with stunning coastal picture postcard views on the Eastern facing side of the train.

{Pictured: Wicklow’s famed Sugarloaf Mountain as viewed from the steam train.}

{Pictured: the inspiration behind and where Thomas Moore penned, his melody ‘Meeting of the Waters’. This picturesque location is where the Avonmore and beg rivers meet to form the Avoca river – Avoca, Co.Wicklow.}

Destination Pics – The Arklow Arrival:

A very ‘Irish’ welcome greeted us at Arklow train station – sign reads welcome in  the Irish language or ‘as Gaeilge’.

{Pictured: Arklow station – luggage weighing scales from times gone by.}

{Pictured: View of train from outside the station walls showing it’s steam capacity.}

Destination Arklow:

Named after Ardwell, a 9th century Viking warrior leader the town of Arklow was first established as a settlement 2000 years ago. Arklow is halfway between Dublin and Wexford and is nestled at the foothills of the Wicklow mountains and is set around the estuary of the Avoca river. Another fun fact: Arklow is identified as a port on Greek geographer Ptolemy’s 2nd century map of Brittania.

From Arklow you have access to some of the best beaches on the East coast, plus a range of B&B’s and hotels were you can retire after a day exploring the stunning surrounding countryside in the area. The Maritime Museum is a huge draw within the town also, not surprising, considering the town’s long maritime history. Visit Arklow.ie for more information.

We had about 2 and a half hours to explore the town of Arklow before our return journey to Dublin. After several stops for photo opps, (of course!) we chose to eat in Darcy McGees upon recommendation from a passenger on the train and Tina of the RPSI. The pub was buzzing and servings were generous, I recommend the half portion option! The food was good, typical pub grub offerings and the establishment was busy with local and visiting trade – always a good sign.

We followed our meal with a visit to a small local shop for a ‘99′ ice–cream and to indulge in some goodies for the train journey home.

The RPSI run several excursions throughout the year which book out fast! In case you missed it: I’ve linked the RPSI website above.

It is worth noting: expect delays from time to time. We were delayed leaving Arklow train station bound for Dublin, for about 40 minutes. The RPSI run these excursions around the daily train timetable of Irish Rail so sometimes delays are beyond their control.

Once again I’d like to thank the RPSI in particular Tina and Pat of the RPSI for their hospitality and VIP access making the trip a truly memorable experience.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Until next time…

Gail. x

Photography: © Gail O‘Connor.

Original Locomotive pic: is © of RPSI as previously stated.

Various location information via: VisitWicklow & Arklow.ie.

Discover Ireland Series: #StPatricksjjinstarail Mystery Photo Tour with JJ Community.

The Event: The JJ Community St. Patrick‘s Day Wild Atlantic Way – Mystery Photo Tour. 

The Date: March 18th 2017.

The Location: We found out on the train that we were headed West (the Wild Atlantic Way) visiting Galway! *Not sponsored.

 

EYRE SQUARE:

We traveled via private train from Dublin’s Heuston Station on a rainy, misty morning to Eyre Square in Galway with the journey taking approximately 2 and a half hours.

The trip was in conjunction with the JJ Community which is the largest, global Instagram Community, the St. Patrick‘s Day Festival, Irish Rail and Select Hotels.

Arriving in Galway the train station is situated right in the heart of the bustling city. Packed full of the usual city amenities from restaurants to pubs shops, plus a market where you’ll find handmade souvenirs of your trip, fresh produce and everything in between.

History abounds and there‘s lots to do here such as the Famine Walk, plus if you look closely enough you may see a few familiar faces!

{ Wilde in Galway: I couldn‘t resist a selfie with the man himself Oscar Wilde!}

{Take a seat: The King‘s chair in the King‘s Head Pub.}

{Streetscape: leading down to a popular coastal area known as The Claddagh on the banks of the River Corrib.}

Meandering lane ways and quaint shopfronts adorn the streetscape.

These streetscapes give way to an area by the banks of the River Corrib providing a striking view of An Cladach or The Claddagh area (meaning ‘the shore‘) a popular spot with tourists and avid photographers where swans and boats dot the water and colourful houses dot the landscape. The Claddagh was once a fishing village dating back to the fifth century and is situated just outside of the old city walls where the River Corrib meets Galway Bay.

Each group on the tour recieved some top tips from JJ Community Founders and photographers Kevin Kuster and Josh Johnson. Groups had a member of the Galway Camera Club showing them around scouting potential photo opportunities combined with local knowledge and historical anecdotes.

On the way back from this area some of us stopped by the Hungry Bear Café to warm up and get in out of the rain where we indulged in a creamy cappuccino or two.

{ Colourful houses make even the bleakest of Irish days cheerful in The Claddagh area.}

{An Claddach: looking towards The Claddagh over the banks of an angry River Corrib.}

We made our way to another popular area of Galway known as Salthill, situated about a half hour walk or 10 minute taxi journey, where dinner was scheduled at the Ardilaun Hotel.

Nightlife:

Galway is long famed for it’s vibrant nightlife from a quiet pint to a more raucous vibe you’ll find something to suit most tastes.

After dinner and catching the Ireland V England Rugby match some friends and I headed back to Galway city where we scouted out places for a farewell drink. An Pucan pub is regarded as a ‘must visit‘ place whilst in Galway and is close to the train station so we made our way there. However much to our disappointment we were turned away due to their “no back pack” rule – so it’s worth noting that if you intend to visit.

We ended up in a bar around the corner for a quick drink then went for our train home, where plenty of revelry was had eventually arriving back in Dublin at 10.45pm or thereabouts. It was a long day but worth it in my opinion as we packed a lot in!

{Group shot: with my girls Lorna, Mei Ling & Filomena.}

Overall the trip and Insta-meet was a huge success with plenty of memories and connections made.

Special thanks go to the team at the St.Patrick’s Day Festival, Irish Rail, Select Hotels, Kevin Kuster and Josh Johnson, Orlaith Carmody and of course the JJ Community for kindly organising this super fun trip!

Make sure to follow me on my Social Media to stay up to date with live updates from events and trips! • Twitter: DublinGail •Instagram: littlegforce •Snapchat:DublinGail

Thanks for stopping by!

Until next time…

Gail. x

Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

Group image: © JJ Community.

Final image: © Lorna Duffy of Fashion Boss blog.

Marcel’s Dublin The REVIEW: Cocktails and Dreams!

 

The Event: Marcel’s ‘Influencer Evening’ Mixology Masterclass in conjunction with BLOGGERCONF. #BestofMarcels

The Date: August 18th 2016
The Location: Marcel’s French Restaurant, Merrion Row, Dublin.

I adore the glamour the addition of a tray of cocktails brings to an evening, adding a certain ‘je nais se quoi‘, and serving as the ultimate conversation starter!

 

Labour of Love:

From inception, to sourcing fresh ingredients and the quality of alcohol used, right through to the often mind-blowing presentation, you have to admit – done right, cocktail making is an art form!

The vast crowd assembled to celebrate Marcel’s first anniversary on Merrion Row, Dublin, eagerly lapped up all the behind the scenes tid-bits on the art of cocktail making at this exclusive ‘Influencer‘ event!

Leading the evening’s festivities was Tomasz our bartender and mixology mastermind for the evening, a hospitable and friendly host who whipped up some divine concoctions, my faves being the pineapple and passion-fruit blends!

Marcel’s is part of the Mercantile Group also responsible for some of my favourite restaurants and bars such as uber stylish and renowned Pichet, Farrier and Draper, Opium and Cafe En Seine to name but a few.

{One of my faves of the evening was this pineapple and passion-fruit blend! I give you ‘La Passiona‘ complete with copper tankard…and we all know how much I love copper anything!}

The evening was a smashing success! An informative and incredibly fun learning experience – with some attendees even trying their hand in applying what we had learned!

The Pornstar Martini is a winner. Every. Time.

{Cheers to Marcel’s and their first Anniversary}

I highly recommend a trip to Marcel’s Dublin to sample their copious array of cocktails if you’re in Dublin visiting or just in town for a shopping trip or night out! It’s worth noting the food is also delicious.

Thanks to Marcels Dublin for the invitation to celebrate their First year Anniversary on Merrion Row, Dublin and to Buck and Hound PR and BLOGGERCONF also.

Thanks for stopping by guys! Until next time…

Gail. xx

Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

*Not sponsored.

 

Classic Summer Style Lookbook: The VACATION EDIT!

Reflective Style:

They say style is reflective of who you are and where you’re going, an extension of yourself and who you want to be.

For me, style can be mood dependant, I adore styling outfits and expressing how I want to present myself on any given day  – meaning boho vibes/preppy/edgy styles are plucked from my wardrobe on the daily. My own style is constantly evolving, however they’re are some style preferences that are innate to me such as All-American preppy, Hamptons-esque style with Spanish and French influences. 

I’ve also become known for my love of and consistent sporting of a leather jacket to add a touch of edginess to an outfit. Another style I have an affinity with is Boho/Beach/Festival style – I’m talking 70’s influences of “Almost Famous” Penny Lane style as well as maxi skirts and dresses, play-suits, denim skirts, kimonos, fringing, head crowns and head-chains.

I decided that whilst on holidays this year I would bite the bullet and get started on my style posts and after a bit of a blogging hiatus I’m back and refreshed!

I am often asked where I get my clothes from and how to style certain items of clothing and accessories for various events people have in their lives. I’ll be sharing my styling tips in my outfit posts so feel free to share my content with anyone who may benefit from it!

I hope you enjoy guys!

{Style shoot: Soaking up the rays and getting those poses down, on the steps of Russborough House.}

Giving the Cold Shoulder:

Cold shoulder, off the shoulder bardot – these are the styles of the summer when it comes to summer tops and tees and I for one am embracing it all!
Fun fact: In seventeenth century France reigning monarch King Louis XIV favoured the off the shoulder look with the décolleté exposed on the women in his court at Versailles – and it seems the feminine allure of this type of style is continuing to unfurl, having a bit of a renaissance centuries on.

These styles are all over the high-street this summer with some beauts in Zara, Primark, H&M and so many others!

The Outfit:

For my holidays I wanted to exude an “off-duty” preppy style which for me is a Hamptons-esque style – preppy, smart casual attire featuring lightweight materials that are easy to layer, the addition of a stylish hat to make outfits pop and to hide behind from the sun’s rays, comfy footwear for all of the exploring and an eye-catching, classic bag to hold all of my essentials.

These key pieces have become part of my summer capsule wardrobe and are staple pieces that work time and time again for many different occasions or excursions from running errands at the weekend to hanging out at a falconry!

{Getting up close and personal with some Birds of Prey with species such as: Snowy Owls and White Tailed Eagles to Falcons  after a wonderful in-depth tour of the falconry at Russborough.}

Classic Summer Capsule Wardrobe Pieces:

Top: Primark
Skinny Jeans: H&M
Shoes: Primark

The Accessories:

Bag: Fiorelli

Hat: Marks & Spencer

Sunglasses: Primark

Chain: Accessorize

Bracelet: Pandora

Midi-Rings: H&M

Tan is: B Bold Tan a must have accessory!

Tell me are you a fan of the cold shoulder trend? What are some of your favourite summer pieces?

Thanks for stopping by guys and I hope you enjoyed this style post as much as I had fun shooting it!

Gail. Xx

Photography: © Gail O’Connor.
Shot on location in Russborough House & Parkland.

Santorini Vibes and a Goddess Glow: Summer Style Inspiration!

{Santorini Vibes: shades of blue and pops of white, taking fashion inspo from the picturesque, hillside vista of Santorini, Greece.}

When a colour palette compels you to blog about it…

As a writer and blogger I find inspiration in everything. From nature, to a conversation, to trend forecasting in Fashion/Beauty etc – however when a colour palette inspires you to write an article on it you know you’re obsessed and you may as well give in and do it!

Santorini Vibes:

If I can’t go to Santorini, I’ll bring Santorini to me – taking inspiration from the islands colour palette in particular the white and blue hues associated with this Greek island!

Into the blue:

{Postcards from Santorini: The Santorini hillside vista that inspired this post.}

I can’t get enough of this colour palette…

I’m talking every shade of blue, paired with white for the ultimate holiday mindset. From washed out denim and cobalt to pastel and Santorini Blue (yeah I totally just made up that name) but you know the one, that blue that conjures up images of deep blue rooftops that majestically overlook an equally blue sea signifying a beaming beacon of relaxation, and an unequivocal Greek island experience of an island way of life of a by gone era. Coupled with white washed, glistening walls this colour palette simply screams summer and the blue and white sun soaked hillside, has immersed itself in my fashion subconscious and seen me dress in island blues on repeat!

Stripes, prints, block colours I’m loving it all – mixing and matching within the palette, block colours of white and blue with prints and stripes in the same hues – adding the odd pop of colours such as yellow, orange, nude, navy and tan to compliment the look.

The Goddess Glow:

These white and blue hues are off-set for me by a gleaming golden glow to the skin lending a bolder, crisper look with added “pop”, to any outfit! I get the ultimate grecian goddess golden/bronzed glow from a new release in the tanning world which I have been trialling lately!

I rarely sit in the sun in the summer months to “get a tan” and if I do you can bet your bottom dollar I’m smothered in Factor 50 because well you know, who needs the wrinkles? Especially nowadays, when self tanners have come such a long way!

The Tan of Choice:

I’ve been trialling *B BOLD Smart Mousse Tan for about 4 weeks and I have to say it never fails to give me major Mediterranean Island/Tropical vibes when I wear it. #vibes #thefeels

The colour pay-off with this tan is unreal. No really. From sunkissed glow to golden hue to a deeper bronzed tan, this tan is perfect to achieve any depth of tan you wish! It’s a one stop shop, making it perfect for travel – the high performance of the tan is a pleasant surprise and it is a welcome addition to the self-tanner market here in Ireland.

Look out for the FULL review on *B BOLD Smart Mousse Tan coming very soon!

All the usual suspects in fashion have variations on this summery palette and in an array of textures – such as Primark, Debenhams, House of Fraser, Marks and Spencer, Zara, H&M and Savida to name just a few.

There you have it, some summer style inspiration in the form of colours and textures in various hues of blue for a fashion colour palette that’ll take you through summer feeling like you’ve been to far away climbs even if you haven’t! My summer capsule wardrobe sorted.

Now all I need is an actual trip to Santorini…although it’ll probably be more like somewhere in the west of Ireland! I’m not complaining though, after all I’m channelling those Santorini vibes…

What is your favourite colour palette for summer? What inspires you when choosing pieces for your summer wardrobe? I’d love to know!

Thanks for stopping by guys!

Gail. Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor.
*Post contains PR sample – All views/opinions on the product are mine as always! .

REVIEW: Champagne Pop BECCA X Jaclyn Hill Shimmering Skin Perfector.

Light Up Your Life with Becca Cosmetics X Jaclyn Hill Champagne Pop Highlight!

The power house of highlight, Australian cosmetics giant BECCA Cosmetics and the Queen of Highlight Jaclyn Hill, have joined forces and produced a stellar, must have product for any self respecting highlight lover!

The Introductions:

Becca Cosmetics are renowned for their highlighters in particular, in the make-up realm – Opal and Moonstone Shimmering Skin Perfectors and the much hyped Backlight Priming Filter. Their eye-shadow palettes are also exquisite…the list of must-haves/lust haves goes on and on.

If you don’t know who Jaclyn Hill is (have you been living under a rock?) allow me to introduce you! Jaclyn Hill is one of the biggest make-up artists and personalities in the beauty game on YouTube. Uber talented, funny, articulate, pretty and not afraid to take the mick out of herself, she has certainly earned her place at the top of her game. In fact, having watched Jaclyn the last two years, I think if we ever met, we’d be instant friends – we could bond over our love of highlighters and dance parties for starters!

The Packaging:

Champagne Pop comes in an eye-catching rose gold, box complete with plastic protective strip across the product sporting the Jaclyn Hill name – the original Becca packaging encases the actual product.

Tried and Tested: The Results.

With the Queen of Contour Kim Kardashian having declared contouring as dead (well at least heavy contouring) strobing is fast becoming the “illuminating contour” method of choice for the masses and this new highlight from Becca and Jaclyn Hill collab is perfect for strobing or adding just a touch of highlight on the daily. Originally brought out as a limited edition powder highlight, Champagne Pop is now thankfully a permanent fixture and should win awards! I bought into the hype surrounding this highlight collab when it was a Limited Edition and it’s safe to say, it’s everything I expected and bought into as a consumer and more. In fact, for me it’s a dual usage product and well worth the investment –  as detailed below.

The Highlights: (pun totally intended.)

From texture, longevity to overall performance.

● Finely milled, buttery formula that is long-lasting on wearing and in sheer volume of product within the compact.
●Sheer, yet highly build-able highlight. A little goes a long way!
●Skin glows and glistens – no chunky glitter particles.
●Natural champagne shade to suit most skin tones.
● Ideal for minimal daily use on cheekbones, for strobing, dusting all over face and décolleté and inner corner highlight of the eye…
● I even like it as an eye shadow or dusted on my pins to highlight the shin bone with a tan!

*Top Tip: remember to blend out to avoid looking like you’re sweaty mess/ disco ball effect.

● Travel friendly the compact is lightweight, with durable packaging, complete with an internal, good sized mirror.

Cons:

Not a massive deal but, the powder can become somewhat messy and have fall-out within the compact, something to be aware of, in case it gets on clothes during application  – this definitely would not put me off investing in it.

Seal of Approval?

One hundred percent yes. A touch of Champagne Pop makes every day an occasion for me, bringing a sparkle to my eyes (as well as my face), such is my delight in this product. This gem of a product is a permanent fixture in my make-up arsenal and I can’t be without…a back-up is definitely in order! This marketing opportunity is hands down one of the best collaborative projects between brand and influencer in recent times in the beauty industry, in my opinion! This offering is simply stellar.

Any other Highlight Lovers out there? What’s your favourite highlighter? Have any of you tried Champagne Pop?
I’d love to know!

Tweet me: @DublinGail/Tag me on Instagram: @littlegforce or leave your faves in the comments section below!

I hope you enjoyed this Review and Beauty Chat guys!

As usual, thanks for stopping by and here’s to a fab new week.

P.S. Remember: Champagne Pop is now a permanent fixture in the BECCA Cosmetics line (thanks to the powers that be!)and is available on spackenk.com or sephora.com 

Gail. Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

FASHION NEWS: M&S skips Catwalk to Launch AW16 Clothing Collection!

High Street, High Stakes:

The Driving Force of a Forward Thinking approach to the Fashion World?

Fashion is entering a major transitional phase right now and following the lead from couture Fashion Houses including Tom Ford and Burberry, British high street chain Marks and Spencer have shaken off tradition in favour of current market trend: meeting the demands of consumer instant gratification. That said today saw the release of the M&S AW16 Collection – a full six months ahead of its usual release date.

What is behind this current trend to break with traditional seasonality of collections?

The reasoning behind such a move by a high street store is in tandem with the reasons and vision behind the aforementioned couture Fashion Houses who during February’s London Fashion Week, expressed their concerns and analytical decisions towards their business models. In short, it is a move to meet the instant gratification and satisfaction demanded by the consumer market.

I have previously covered this shift in how designers are shirking the conventional approach to catwalk shows and presentations in my Fashion Alert: Designers to Take Less Conventional Approach to Fashion Week Presentations? post recently – how the  digital and social media age, coupled with the rise in Influencer Marketing is dictating consumer demands and shifts, in how and when consumers want to purchase goods. Designers are now allocating budgets to Digital, as it is an area that is that is going to impact on business.

{The Big Easy Collection: an AW16 exclusive from British retail giant Marks and Spencer.}

Skipping Ahead: Shopping NEXT Season Now!

Defining seasonality in countries such as Ireland or the UK is often difficult, with weather patterns, particularly heat, differing drastically from other countries especially in the summer months – the beauty in the design of this twenty piece collection entitled the ‘Big Easy’ is that it incorporates, an array of hand-picked, exclusive pieces in neutral hues and soft prints, sleek silhouettes and minimal aesthetic that will fit right into your summer capsule wardrobe. These ideal pieces are perfect for those temperamental summer days and accompany key pieces and style staples for when it comes to the seasonal autumnal weather that the collection was designed to cater to.

*Look out for stand-out pieces such as: leather culottes, tunic style shirts and dresses, and fashionista fave the flat strappy, pointed toe shoe.

{White out: Another look from the Marks and Spencer AW16 exclusive from Marks and Spencer.}

You can shop the ‘Big Easy‘ collection now in- store or online – this instantaneous shoppable option from the fashion industry, looks set to become the next trending theme in Fashion commerce so best get used to it folks!

Thoughts?

What are your thoughts on this bold move by Marks and Spencer? As a retail/clothing consumer, are you excited to be able to shop a season ahead or do you prefer things the way they were – shoppable in season? I’d love to hear what you guys think!

Me?  From a consumer stand-point, I think if trans-seasonal collections like this one from M&S are released, where pieces can be easily incorporated into the current seasonal wardrobe, offering even more functionality then I say bring it on, because you know I’m getting the wear out of my key pieces!

From a business stand-point this shake up in the fashion world means major change for manufacturing and supply chains to traditional buyers and for retailers, actually facilitating purchases.

I hope you enjoyed this “Fashion News” style post and thanks for stopping by!

Gail. Xx
Images: © Marks and Spencer.

Source: Marks and Spencer and Daily Mail 
*Not sponsored.

EXCLUSIVE: An Evening with Dior – A French Fragrance Journey!

Date with Dior: the heritage, the fragrance journey!

When Dior come to Dublin and are hosting an event you know you’re in for a treat. That said, when you’re a fragrance fanatic and you hear it’s a Dior Fragrance Event, in one of your favourite places in Dublin, you hot-tail it to the event pronto!

The Event: Dior Fragrance Event.

The Location: Residence Members Club, St.Stephen’s Green, Dublin.

The Date: Tuesday, April 12th 2016.