Compiled by DEIRDRE McQUILLAN
Top man
JW Anderson, the Derry-born fashion designer wowing London and New York, is to launch a collection for Topshop in September. All we know, thus far, about the upcoming collaboration is that it will include "the best of his design ideas to date", clothing in jersey and denim, knitwear and outerwear pieces as well as pencils, memory sticks and photography books. Stockists for his main line include Neiman Marcus, Browns, Colette in Paris, Dover Street Market, Harvey Nichols, net-a-porter.comand Opening Ceremony, with prices to match. For example, on Net-a-Porter, items from his current collection include a paisley print shirt (€904) and a neoprene and leather dress (€2,052). Topshop prices will bring him into an affordable domain.
Retro route
They’re on the move. Charlotte & Jane, the Kinsale-based fashion designers who do business their own way, are heading to Letterkenny in Donegal on June 29th and 30th to take orders for their 1950s-style bespoke creations. Their dresses – in Irish materials such as wool, tweed and linen – have made them a particular success story, as well as their way of promoting their designs, and taking individual orders in various locations around the country. The duo will be based for two days in The Gray Room at Ruth’s Pharmacy on the Pearse Road, where they will do 40-minute consultations and give advice on style, fabric, colour and fit. And, of course, take private orders for a Charlotte & Jane dress. To book an appointment, tel: 074-911 3388.
Boutique of the week
Clodagh Roche and Laura Gallagher set up Muse, their quayside boutique in Waterford, in 2006, and it quickly gathered a loyal following for its chic everyday wear from more than two dozen international brands such as Acne, Malene Birger and Day Birger et Mikkelson. Since launching museboutique.ie last September, they have attracted a completely new clientele both at home and abroad. "We've had sales to America, Australia and England," says Roche. Like many successful Irish boutiques, she says that attentive customer service is key, as well as keeping prices affordable. Muse is known for really well cut jackets and blazers, and Roche believes that printed trousers are here to stay for summer, winter and into the New Year; she recommends a pair from US brand Current Elliott called Cosmic (€235). Muse will also be introducing Etoile by Isabel Marant next season and, though it caters for the "phenomenal" number of weddings in Waterford, customers tend to want something "slightly more alternative, more European", says Roche. Muse, 92 The Quay, Waterford. Tel: 051-854 448, museboutique.ie
