FASHION:The best way to describe the general mood of the clothes in BT2 this season might be "children at play". It's all very theatrical.
The men's department has an eclectic mix of classic Brit-chic, good-boy clothing which includes the chequered shirts seen here in shades of blue, and a grungier, "nu rave", drop-out vibe using polyester in greys and purples. Side by side with this, however, there is also a more clean-cut look, with shirts, classic knit cardigans and skinny jeans. There are also well-cut winter wool coats, and Paddington bear duffle coats.
The women's collection has some strong accent pieces from the French brand Manoush, and Laundry Industry. Gothic, folk and carnival styles are among the trends. The clothes vary from cute, red, brass-buttoned Tommy Hilfiger cardigans, to truly eccentric 1980s street parade clothing. This last is best represented by Diesel's clothes that feature asymmetrical cuts.
There are polarised versions of femininity: silk, pussy-cat bows versus a more metrosexual urban look - very Agyness Deyn. These are not clothes for the weak-hearted, but will appeal to anyone who enjoyed wearing their mum's lipstick or painted theatrical moustaches on their faces at the age of five; those who use clothes to give vent to their imagination.
The women's collection now has two new concessions, including BareMinerals, one of America's top make-up companies, which has just opened a booth in BT2 on Grafton Street. A Dublin favourite, All Saints, will also be moving in. In December, BT2 Grafton Street will also get a new nail bar. Other names to look out for are Bjorn Borg men's underwear, Philly's 1970s inspired Free People, and the London-based, celebrity label, Lipsy.
Both men's and women's trends look to the past for inspiration. Whether it be 1960s rock-chic, or 1980s punk-rave, the overall effect is theatrical and stylish, hovering between playfulness and sophistication.