The Irish weather may not be all that reliable but we should enjoy the sunny spells while we can, and our choice of wardrobe should reflect that. Consider cruising into a Mediterranean summer at the office with a stylish array of airy linens, cool cottons, easy mood board neutrals and relaxed tailoring for men. Ripley’s Andrew Scott and Johnny Flynn, aka Dickie Greenleaf, as the spoilt playboy son inspire a handy template for the various outfit changes for a versatile wardrobe. The mix of smart linen jackets, cheesecloth shirts, preppy tops and smart leisure shoes are also ideal for erratic weather changes and offers a suit for all seasons. The improved quality and expansive choice of designs on sale deliver a combination of debonair flair and handy holiday items too.
A versatile jacket makes a worthwhile investment and Massimo Dutti hits the perfect balance with a suede camel jacket that comes in a soft buttery hide that feels luxurious and light. For women, the Massimo rails also have gorgeous mid-length suede skirts in shades of plum and tan. Either the men’s wear trousers or women’s skirts suit white cool linen shirts or blouses along with flat suede loafers or Skecher’s footwear. Skechers have brought a more sophisticated balance to stylish sneakers with a full range of colour tones to suit a wide variety of office outfits for men and women. They are ideal for walking or cycling too and eliminate the need to bring a change of shoes in your briefcase or backpack. They also look a lot nicer than men’s sandals or those flat-footed Birkenstocks that are grand for the beach but very dowdy when worn with smarter styles.
Another store to explore this summer is the revamped Shaws. They have just introduced the “Cortefiel” collection from Spain that presents signature breezy print dresses, along with ultra popular wide legged palazzos and a combination of separates from waistcoats, blouses and T-shirts in earthy neutral tones to ring subtle changes for during the week. The Cortefiel fashion show held in May featured easy flare trousers worn with matching waistcoats over white T-shirts as well as linen jackets. The range of natural fabrics is perfect for our changeable summer weather that starts off chilly and showery in the morning until the mercury rises for a balmy and warm evening.
The styles also showcase mid-length dresses that balance the lines between corporate confidence and barbecue-ready looks. With so many summer concerts and food fairs on in the evenings – it is so much handier to have looks for all occasions that cut out the hop home to do a swift wardrobe change. Shaws now has 10 locations across Ireland, as well as online and are concentrating on using high-quality fabrics and adaptable designs that add depth to any wardrobe and enhance the circular economy. With its Spanish ethos, the Cortefeil label provides effortless style for any occasion.
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Emma Hill, head of buying for Shaws, says, “We are delighted to welcome Cortefiel to Shaws this spring, offering our customers a beautifully curated collection that blends timeless elegance with modern versatility.”
In terms of colour, the office will be awash with marine inspired elements from azure blues, aquamarines and white tones for a fresh continental look this summer. Bold colour blocking also makes a statement, featuring vibrant yellow, navy blue and army green. Additionally, a lot of the statements embrace classic preppy styles and varsity vogue for younger tastes.
Another strong new Irish label called Naya releases dramatic wide stripes into the mix of workwear to add flattering illusions and versatility to its collection. It caters for larger sizes without any compromise on style.
The seasonal styles from Naya’s stable include wide-leg trousers and striped tunic pairings offering a blend of comfort and contemporary cuts. Crafted with relaxed silhouettes and thoughtful details such as elasticated waistbands they ensure maximum comfort and less restrictive tailoring. The diagonal stripe dress is enlivened with script printed details and the pockets add an extra touch of style and functionality.
Menswear also highlights khaki greens and muted taupes with lightweight summer trench coats for that unexpected shower and are eminently adaptable for evening wear as well as capsule holiday items.
Dunnes prides itself on its support for Irish designers such as Caroline Donnelly, Paul Costelloe, Paul Galvin and Helen Steele. The chain’s casual men’s wear features a variety of looks that are ideal for the Irish summer office – including chinos, cotton shirts, linens and light texture jumpers.
Pay attention to the office culture before making seasonal wardrobe investments. While some workplaces may be open to face piercings, extensive tattoos and Mohawk haircuts dyed in shades of fluorescent pink or green – others can be more conservative in style and even have a code of suitable workwear that they want employees to embrace.
Those who have to adhere to a formal code may have to bring a lightweight change of wardrobe for their “real” world when they leave the office environment. Layering a smart jacket and having a few pairs of trousers at the ready can often provide smart options in a more uniform environment. For those free to express themselves in a kaleidoscope of unique and original guises – enjoy the opportunity to impress staff and colleagues with your next creative concoction in your own inimitable style.
