Primark has just launched its first ever range of jeans made from 100 per cent sustainable cotton. They come in three different washes – indigo, light blue and black – and cost €17 a pair.
Made with cotton from Primark’s Sustainable Cotton programme, it follows the introduction of sustainably sourced cotton into women’s pyjamas which have sold more than 11.2 million pairs since the launch. It also follows Primark’s recent collaboration with Alice Liveing which featured a top and leggings set made from recycled polyester as well as two biodegradable water bottles.
More sustainable cotton products will come on stream later in the year. The cotton programme was introduced in India in 2013 to help farmers grow cotton using more natural farming methods, minimising the use of chemical pesticides and reducing water consumption. The scheme has now expanded into Pakistan and more than 28,000 farmers are now enrolled in the training across both markets.
Spectacular scarves
A really spectacular collection of scarves by the French illustrator Pierre-Louis Mascia has just been introduced to Dublin by Sadhbh Fahy in her Donnybrook boutique Electra. Mascia’s very distinctive and individual style is notable for making use of intricate patterns, collages that often feature a whirlwind of motifs and colours.
There are unpredictable mixes of vintage fabrics or torn book pages laid out in an op art manner, antique wallpapers and old pieces of clothing are all grist to his mill.
“I work instinctively” he says. “Each season I begin by mixing references, patterns and design, then reduce it down progressively into a collection.”
He launched his line in 2007 under the tutelage of the Uliassi brothers owners of a printing factory in Como whose history dates back 80 years. It started with scarves but it also now includes knitwear, outerwear, backpacks, throws and cushions. Electra’s collection includes long narrow silk scarves (€115), lined scarves (cotton in summer, cashmere in winter) (€299), big silk fringed numbers (€325) and cotton/silk scarves (€145), as well as a pair of cotton trousers (€355) and a shirt (€325).
Plush PJs
A visit to Arnotts always comes up with surprises – on a recent one, the nightwear of Yawn caught my eye in the lingerie department now relocated on the second floor.
This is a collection of pyjamas, dressing gowns and nightshirts in the softest cotton with innovative and attractive prints. The brand was founded in the UK by Alice Whiteley and the “female focused” prints are hand painted and come in natural materials.
Spring bestsellers include "Lovebirds" and "House of Cards" unique motifs with two new PJ sets called "Venus" and "Port in a Storm". Pyjamas are priced at €119 and nightshirts €79. One blue and white print of soft white leaves on a navy background with red balloons became a customer favourite in Galeries Lafayette in Paris. Visit loveyawn.com
