Desire Lines: Retro swimwear to wear as we dream of summer holidays

Plus details of Kathryn Thomas's sold-out wellness retreats in the Algarve this month

Sat, 02 May, 2026 - 01:00

Mary Lynn Full Cup Swimsuit Rose Gingham €147 Sizes 32B to 38E. SusanHunter.ie and Westbury Mall

The swimwear

The hint of the sun this week has got us dreaming of our summer holidays. Top of our swimwear wishlist? This retro rose gingham swimsuit from Belgian brand Mary Jo. Available in sizes 32B - 38E at Susan Hunter in Dublin’s Westbury Mall, who are now fitting for swimwear as well as luxury lingerie. €147.

susanhunter.ie

The drink

If you’re looking for an ambassador who will exemplify the importance of fuelling your body correctly, a World Champion and Olympian is a fairly safe bet.

It’s no surprise SiSú — an Irish brand whose name comes from the Finnish concept of having strength, grit and the guts to do what needs to be done — wanted Taylor on board, but the Bray native said she was equally keen.

As an athlete, she says she couldn’t afford to take any empty calories on board, but there’s nothing quite like the hit of a fizzy drink after a hard session...

And so, Fizzique was born. High in fibre, infused with magnesium and vitamin D, with low sugar and calories, the sodas come in four flavours and are priced at €2.80 a can.

sisu.ie

The retreat

Kathryn Thomas is bringing her sold-out wellness retreats back to the Algarve this month. Set in the sun-soaked surroundings of Lagos, this seven day retreat blends fitness, relaxation and connection. Joining Kathryn is Ballymaloe-trained chef Al Burkitt, yogi Caroline Rouine, and women’s health specialist and personal trainer Aoife Meldon, all focused on helping guests feel stronger, more energised and fully recharged.

Guests can expect optional daily workouts and yoga, cliff-top hikes, nutrition workshops, and nourishing meals, alongside time to unwind in a relaxed, social setting. Many attend solo, with a strong emphasis on community and connection. From €1,299, all-inclusive.

pureresults.ie

The sunscreen

Caudalie’s sun protection range has a new jewel in the crown. After months of hiding beneath winter layers, the High Protection Glow, SPF 50, gives a lush, yet natural, shine to the skin. The added bonus? It absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft and subtly radiant, without a greasy finish. €19.

caudalie.com

The dinner

JP McMahon of Aniar in Galway will join Andy McFadden at Glovers Alley in Dublin on May 6 for an exciting collaboration between the two Michelin-starred restaurants. It will mark the first in a series of events celebrating 15 years of Aniar. The chefs will create a unique tasting menu that reflects their individual cooking styles, while showcasing a selection of dishes that have defined Aniar. €170 per person, with an optional wine pairing at €120 per person.

gloversalley.ie

Eoin McGee is back with two live shows in Cork

The live show

Financial planner Eoin McGee is back with two live shows in the Gleneagle Club, Killarney on May 16 and The Everyman, Cork, on May 27.

In a time of uncertainty, McGee has practical tips and tricks on household expenses, summer holidays and investing — there will be opportunities for questions from the audience.

everymancork.com

The ice cream maker

Every day can be an ice cream day this summer with Russell Hobbs’ new Chilluxe Ice Cream Maker. Designed to help you create smooth frozen treats at home, the new machine launches this spring.

Settings cover ice cream, sorbet, gelato, milkshakes, frozen yogurt, and mix-ins — a function that allows you to add toppings and flavours to your creations. Removable parts are dishwasher safe and your purchase includes two 500ml tubs with lids, €199.99.