This week, designer Mia O’Connell talks to us about what she’s wearing
How much did it cost?
The dress is €395, available in red, plum, and black and navy. The scarf is €165. It is a great piece, when the velvet is wrapped around your neck — the chiffon sits beautifully over your shoulders. All the pieces are available in The Design Centre, Powerscourt; Havana, Donnybrook, and Elaine Curtis, Carlow.
What do you love most about it?
The combination of colours. When I design a new collection, the colours and style slowly filter into my own wardrobe. Since designing this collection, I have fallen in love with the colour red; no other hue makes a women feel as good or as vibrant.
Who is your fashion icon?
Coco Chanel, for her style and her expression in fashion.
Which designers do you admire?
I admire a lot of Japanese designers, such as Comme des Garcons, Yohji Yamamoto and Junya Watanabe. During Paris fashion week, I will always look out for Givenchy.
What is the last thing you bought?
A beautiful pair of burgundy, high-heeled, Dr Martin lace-up boots.
What was your biggest splurge?
In a recent sample sale, I was able to buy my first designer piece, a red chiffon dress by John Rocha.
What is your best bargain buy?
When I was a teenager, I was a huge fan of vintage clothing. I bought a small, black-leather satchel bag for €5 in a Dublin vintage shop. Two locks on it were broken and when I brought it to the locksmith, I found £300 inside.
Where do you like to shop?
I would mostly shop in Zara. If money was no object, I would shop in Dover Street Market, in London.
What has been your biggest fashion faux pas?
I wore my black biker boots with my jeans and t-shirt combo with a vintage jacket I had bought. It was very ‘80s in style; it had big shoulders and lots of studs. Combined with big hair, it made quite the outfit.
