surf 'n' sailTo celebrate their first year in business, Amy and Jilly Hamilton of On Board pulled off a masterstroke by luring Laird Hamilton, the world's greatest big-wave surfer, to their surf, snow and sail shop in the Creation Arcade, on Duke Street, Dublin 2.
The two sisters, keen sportswomen themselves (and no relation to the surfer, despite the surname), persuaded the legend to visit Ireland as part of his European tour to sign autographs and give surfing tips to his many fans in this country. On Board has become a destination for style-conscious outdoors sports fans and fashionistas alike, with everything from boards to bikinis and coveted brands such as Oxbow, Animal, Von Zipper and Element.
divine inspirationSharp-eyed Mary Greene of Divine boutique in Maynooth, Co Kildare, is always on the lookout for interesting clothes and accessories not stocked elsewhere in Ireland. Her latest find is an Italian jewellery brand that developed from a well-known yarn manufacturer called Milano Filati. This far-seeing company engaged two young Italian stylists to create accessories using innovative yarns such as thick plastic and copper satin, which led to Circus, a design-based brand. Greene has taken a wide selection of the range, which includes metal and mesh necklaces and modern Victorian-style chokers in copper satin that are stylish and different. Currently the most popular items are "slave bangles" for wrists or upper arms, made in copper and mesh. Prices are from €60 to €150. Divine, Manor Mills, Maynooth, Co Kildare, 01-6292550.