I am ready to emerge decked out like my spirit animal: Pat Butcher from Eastenders

No more online shopping, no more neutral separates. It's time to dress like peacocks and channel wedding guest chic

Pat Butcher is my post-pandemic style icon.

Every week, when I go on my drive into Kinsale for my big shop, I stare wistfully at the windows of the SVP shop as I glide past. ‘Soon,’ I whisper to myself. Soon, I will be able to rummage and root. 

Soon, I will be able to wodge my too-big feet into a pair of shoes that were pre-loved by a lady far more glamorous than me. Soon, I will feel the soft fibres of clothing that has been softened by years of gentle washing and care. Soon, I will be able to rifle through a rack of coats and find a ballgown that would be perfect for wearing to the shops with a pair of runners.