There was an excitement in the air as champagne glasses clinked in anticipation of the show. The buzz was permeated with air kisses, gossip and laughter. As the flashes went off the beautiful people were striking a pose. We were in Arnotts department store for the Spring / Summer 2006 show.
Overall, for S/S 06, the looks in both men’s and women’s collections at Arnotts are becoming more thoughtful and refined. There is a move away from the boho eccentricity of previous seasons. The new cleaner silhouette is enhanced by the use of exquisite fabrics – gossamer silks, wonderfully textured linens, soft washed cottons, easily drapeding viscose and fine summer tweeds.
Prints abound, especially in the season’s most desirable item – the dress. They come in every shape – shift, shirtwaister or strapless. Shorter asymmetrical tunic styles can be worn over the latest skinny jeans or colourful hosiery.
In other scenes the military look gives way to a more understated utility styling softened by embroidered details and a sometimes humours shock of colour. Embroidery, beads and sequins add a touch of glamour at all times of day or night. The practical, yet stylish soft trench coat proves popular for both men and women.
After the show, with was produced by Eddie Shanahan (who also came up with the concept), we all retired to the top floor Studio Bar for an intimate dinner. There’s something odd about being in a department store after hours, it’s a mini exhilaration.
Guests included fashion writers, stylists, buyers and generally stylish people including Bairbre Power, who is busy preparing for her upcoming role in the Vagina Monologues, Susan Vasquez, newly appointed Marketing Manager of Arnotts Tania Meighan and writer / broadcaster Quentin Fottrell.
Also there were stylist Sonia Mohlich, Alice Sheridan of DeadlyBuzzLive.com and Kerri Galligan, who’s off on a mega shopping trip to NYC next week.
Several new brands have been introduced to the men’s, woman’s, lingerie and accessory collections at Arnotts – Pal Zileri Lab, Superdry, Isobel Sarsfield, Pollini Studio, 120% Linen, Custo, Andy Warhol @ Cultura and Derhy among others. These join existing labels such as Sharon Wauchop, Seven, Hunters & Gatherers and Elle McPherson.
As we left the store, full of food, wine and love we said our goodbyes but some continued on to the next event, for the night was far from over.
