Shannon O’Sullivan with your fortnightly stylefix. This issue she chats all things velvet, back to school garms and Millie Mack’s effortless style…
Steal Her Style: Millie Mackintosh
Watching the first episode of MIC’s new series it wasn’t hard to notice the absence of Millie Mackintosh and her quirky yet pretty fashion sense. The MIC star has style and I am certain that I wasn’t the only one who missed it. Thankfully her star status has grown so much over the last few years, partly due to her recent marriage to Professor Green, that she features in almost every ‘trashy’ magazine us students buy in bulk for a bit of made up gossip. Whatever you think of her, the girl definitely knows how to put an outfit together for any occasion, including her wedding. From the perfect festival wear to looking chic and sophisticated on the red carpet, she’s been looking well. Watch Millie for tips on how to achieve a clean-cut appearance with a little edge. She takes it from preppy to quirky, donning bowler hats, embellished blazers and floaty feathers. Her Instagram page is perfect to keep up to date with her latest outfits. You can follow Millie at ‘camillamackintosh.’
Trend Alert: Velvet
Those were the days; rocking purple velvet pants and a matching velvet blouse, teamed with a pair of black painted shoes. Yes, unfortunately it is true that there was a point in my life when this was my go-to outfit. I was eight and it was in. You will be glad, or possibly horrified, to know that the velvet trend is back, following its domination of the London catwalks and has spread as far as Miley Cyrus’ legs in her recent music videos. If my eight year old self were to appear now walking down Henry St she would fit right in (minus the plastic shiny shoes) and I’ve decided to embrace that, and to welcome velvet back into my wardrobe. However, small doses will do just fine.
The high street hangers are riddled with this season’s trendy fabric. Whether it’s from Penneys to Topshop or New Look to Miss Selfridge, you beures won’t have any difficulty picking up a new strappy velvet dress or a classy midi with a sheer back. Miss Selfridge is currently stocking a blue fitted dress for €38, while Topshop have a good selection of velvetine trainers and so called T-bar ‘Geek’ shoes available in royal blue and aubergine colours (not for the meek or timid). Last season’s crop top isn’t going anywhere and Penneys are stocking pretty velvet versions in black and maroon colours for just over a €10.
Us students tend to be slobs or just clumsy at times so if you find yourself and your new velvet garment in a pickle when it comes to washing, here are some tips. Always check the label on the item before washing as some velvet, depending on what they originated from (silk, cotton or synthetics), will need a bit of care to restore. Certain types of velvet can only be dry-cleaned and others are perfect for your own washing machine. Do not iron velvet unless you intentionally want to ruin its unique texture. If you didn’t get a steam iron for a present last Christmas then simply hang the item in a steamy bathroom or over a boiling kettle. No wrinkles, no harm done.
Remember not to be judgmental, as every trend deserves a second chance.
College Essentials
Hats
Whether it’s a beanie or a bowler it is a must-have. Some say hats don’t suit them but there is such a wide variety of styles available now there is no excuse. Hats exude confidence and the love of keeping your ears warm in the cold winds of winter. Texture is important here, as you may not like the ‘feel’ of a certain fabric hugging your head. Trying a few styles and fabrics will soon reveal what type of hat person you are. So all you hat virgins out there, dive in. The snapback if you haven’t noticed , has become king of DCU campus style and somehow makes lads walk with a bit of ‘swag’ when worn. Strange the effect an oversised hat can have on the male mind. You can now get class snapbacks instead of hoodies. Enough said.
Jewellery
Layers are always the way to go this time of year so why not do the same with your jewellery. Be brave this semester and brighten up your outfits with dressy bangles, embellished necklaces and statement studs.
Coats/Jackets
The essential of all essentials is a warm yet stylish coat or jacket that will get you through the winter months. The parka is as popular as ever with every high street shop displaying their own versions. Pull and Bear’s Nylon Parka in navy or khaki is a great buy. At just €69.99 you get a waterproof coat with a fur-trimmed hood, red detailing along the zip line and a cosy grey interior. If you have a bit more money to spare, Jack Wills have a tan coloured Kendale Wax Jacket. Its expensive look echoes its price however, as it is available to buy for €150. For something more reasonable, Forever 21 have an edgy Faux Leather Moto Jacket for just €42.75.
Shannon O’Sullivan
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