Summer is a great time to accessorise, I think. You can have so much fun with colour, especially with the very trendy neon this season, and adding a little bling is never a bad thing. And you have to remember that whether you like to wear scarves, bangles, or bags, they never really go out of fashion, so think of them as a very good investment. My current favourites include gold bangles (lots of them ), big, chunky, necklaces, and gold earrings, worn with my go-to look of a T-shirt and black blazer. With plenty of collections and designers to choose from, here are just a few of my summer picks.
Chupi
I have known the very talented Chupi Sweetman-Pelle for a few years. As a designer of clothing, she was one to watch, and now, as a jewellery designer, she has found her stride. Her latest collection is really very beautiful, and I am obsessed with the 18k gold ring called ‘wrap your laurels around me’ (€73 ), and her selection of dainty charm bracelets, all available on her website, chupi.ie
Melissa Curry
This woman makes the most eye-catching pieces which are worthy of a mention by any fashion journalist. Melissa Curry’s pieces, which are available at the Design Centre Dublin and on coldlillies.ie, are a real statement. For all the love I have for big and bold necklaces, Melissa makes them like no other. Her use of colour is fun, coupled with intricate work and detailing. Take a look at her neck collars made from acrylic and sterling silver.
Accessorize
If you prefer to dash to the shops and pick up something a little more affordable, then Accessorize is the one-stop shop for all your jewellery needs. This season its pieces are particularly playful, like a strawberry cross body bag (€29.90 ) and flower stud earrings (€7.90 ). The palette is pretty with shades of mint green, candy pink, and lemon all being prominent. The inspiration from country gardens is certainly quite clear. And if you need a hat for a wedding, Accessorize has a huge selection.
Ana Faye
I am addicted to bags and ever since I discovered Ana Faye, whose collection is available at Kilkenny stores, I cannot get enough. The colours, like cobalt blue with a touch of lime (holdall, €195 ), grab your attention and will look amazing with anything black or navy you may have in your wardrobe. Plus, investing in a bag is a wardrobe must, especially if it is of high quality as you will have it forever. An over the shoulder bag is a summer must-have too, and in hot pink... well I can’t resist (€149 ).
Lorna Claire Weightman
@styleisleIRL
Una Sinnott 23/04/2013
