The Soho Market

On my travels around Dublin's, so they say, fair city, I've often noticed shops that look promising but have never actually ventured into them. The one I've been passing for months that looked so intriguing is The Soho Market in Stephen's Green SC. From the displays in the window and even the font of the name of the shop, I could tell it was a place I'd love.

Finally took the time to give it a chance yesterday with my friend and I'm so glad I did. Think Urban Outfitter's Renewal Section meets Topshop meets, the best part, cheap prices.
I had a kind of mid year resolution almost, to start buying things with more care and to stop buying tops that are over €30, because it's a blatant rip off - as lovely as the top may be.
It is a small shop but, unlike most clothes stores, the clothes were layed out perfectly and not in a jumbled mess and it was so easy to find things which is great for someone like me who can never find anything. And it may have just been me, but it was like there was a "Summer" rack, an "Autumn" and a "Winter" rack as it seemed like the clothes on each rack were suited to a certain time of the year, with the Summer rack full of chiffon, floral dresses, the Autumn with mustard yellows and Aran-knit cardies and the Winter rack with very dark colours, mostly black, and shimmer and glitter which, personally, remind me of the festivity of winter.
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There were plenty of florals, knits and clothes that seemed much more expensive than they where. The staff were lovely and didn't get all up in your face when you were looking at things, which when you're terrified of people, that can be a problem.
The best thing I found was definitely a pair of black, biker boots for a, wait for it, amazing €19 which I'm tempted to return and make mine, I didn't want to leave without them!
I know there's one in Dun Laoighre too so if you live in Dublin do check it out.

Crop top I got for €9

Spring/Summer 2011 Trends

Think "spring" and your mind will instantly conjure up images of fresh, blooming flowers and new life. The days are getting longer and brighter - much like the ankle skirts at Jil Sander at Milan Fashion Week.

These almost almost ~clichéd~ thoughts can be reflected from the catwalks of many designers this season. 

The two main trends you'll see, will inevitably be brights and botanicals. After the cold, dark, dreary winter months, bright colours and suitable fresh floral patterns emerge from their hibernation, to once again take their place in our wardrobes as season staples.

At Milan Fashion Week, Jil Sander showcased the neon brights trend. Raf Simmons presented a feast for the eyes - while not going overboard. On display, were an array of playfully clashing colours in vibrant hues but keeping that trademark minimalistic touch of former designer, Jil Sander, herself. 

My favourite look (and the easiest to replocate for theose who want to stand out but are perhaps, a little too retiring) is the simple, yet effective, combination of the plain white tshirt and an ankle length, acid-coloured skirt - which are everywhere right now. All the girls were given powerful, pink pouts. The clothes and lips were so very attention-grabbing that neutral makeup was the way to go. 

Neons are simply to wear, considering you don't go overboard and keep things relatively low key. As the saying goes "a little goes a long way". You don't want to end up looking like a crossbred between a clown and a glowstick.

Jil Sander

 On the completely other end of the scale, we have the pretty, feminine florals that return time and time again at this time of the year, which I, personally, never tire of. Whether you want romantic florals with an edge, like Erdem at London Fashion Week -who is fast becoming a favourite of mine- or the kookier leafy prints, as seen from House of Holland, florals are easy to work into any wardrobe but there is a downside. Florals can be as dull as watching paint dry - going with more unique patterns, prints and shades can save you from looking like your mother's withering bouquet, neglected in the corner.

Erdem

 

House of Holland