Shop & Rock

Rockin: 1. Cara Millaney, Kate McDaid & Louise Priestman; 2. Fiona O'Dea & Tadhg O'Donovan; 3. Gemma Byrne, Amy Clarke & Michelle Murray. (Pix. Presence)

Over 20,000 shoppers enjoyed the 2nd Shop & Rock event at Dundrum Town Centre. They were entertained by X Factor star Melanie McCabe, 1940’s swing sensation The Bugle Babes, the ever popular Late Late Show’s in-house band The Camembert Quartet and electronic violinist Tara Novak and enjoyed a glass of West Coast Cooler Citra at the Bubbly Bar. It was a night of great discounts and offers with plenty of customers starting their Christmas Shopping.

CARI Ball

Caring: 1. Ceclia Ahern, Miriam Ahern and Georgina Byrne; 2. Victor Burke and Fiona Roberts; 3. Sharon Falvey, Suzanne Mintern and Orla Skelton. (Pix. Brian McEvoy)

As the charity ball season draws to a close for 2011 the annual CARI Ball hosted by Miriam Ahern attracted a large crowd of supporters to The Shelbourne Hotel. Miriam has been a supporter and fundraiser for CARI for over 12 years and the annual ball is the main fundraising event for the charity.

The evening commenced with a champagne reception generously sponsored by M&S, after which guests enjoyed a four-course meal with delectable wines, again kindly supplied by M&S. Alan Hughes was the charismatic MC for the evening.

After dinner a select auction took place where Pat O’Hagan from Savill’s put a number of lots under the hammer including a five star holiday to Dubai sponsored by The Bonnington Tower Hotel Group. In line with The Supper Club theme on the night guests were entertained by Frankly Sinatra with dancing until the early hours of the morning.

Guests who attended on the night included Cecelia Ahern and her husband David Geoghan and Georgina Byrne, along with Derek Mooney, Dragon’s Den star Gavin Duffy, Karl Broderick and Roz Flanagan, to name but a few.

CARI is a voluntary organisation, founded in 1989 to provide therapy and counselling to children and teens that have been affected by sexual abuse and support for the non-abusing members of their families. Over €60,000 euro was raised to help CARI’s support services.

Bavaria Racing

Formula Bavaria: 1. Kathy Worth and Sharon Keegan; 2. Claire Malone and Donna McGarry; 3. Olwyn Smith, Edel King and Ruth Morton. (Pix. Brian McEvoy)

Dublin celebrated the glitz and glamour of Formula 1 at the launch of Bavaria City Racing. A host of well known faces descended on CHQ Dublin where details of the event and the first F1 team coming to Dublin were revealed.

You’re Fired presenter Anton Savage was MC on the night while DJ Mo Kelly provided the entertainment. Guests on the night included, models Jenny Lee Masterson, Sarah Morrissey, Declan Leavy and Norman Pratt along with the original Bavaria Babes, Dutch beauties Femke Weijenburg and Emmy de Wit who were joined by a number of Irish Bavaria Babes on the night.

Bavaria City Racing Dublin takes place June 3rd 2012 bringing Formula 1 to the streets of Dublin for the first time. Over 150,000 people are expected to line the streets next June to see unprecedented demonstrations by international racing cars and drivers from the highest racing classes. www.bavariacityracing.ie

Absolutely Wicklow

Absolutely wonderful: 1. Jenny Kelly and Lynne Baillie Robinson; 2. Tracey O’Brien and Sarah McGahon; 3. James Carroll and Aud Baillie. (Pix. Brian McEvoy)

To the Garden County for the launch of Absolutely Wicklow, a new brand for handmade contemporary design and craft exclusively fashioned in County Wicklow. Absolutely Wicklow combines a website, www.absolutelywicklow.ie, and a retail store in Bray – Absolutely Wicklow Retail that will feature 15 of the finest contemporary design and craft makers in the region.

In the beautiful and elegant surrounds of Clermont House, Rathnew, guests including TV chef Catherine Fulvio enjoyed a classic afternoon tea as they heard about the new initiative and met those involved. Among the 15 chosen designers include milliner Sarah McGahon who has designed for Lady Gaga and Amy Huberman, wood crafter Chaim Factor whose work can be seen in Trinity College, The Four Courts and Dail Eireann and Cillian Johnston whose revolutionary new lamp design is awaiting patenting.

Absolutely Wicklow is a showcase for the plethora of high quality, handmade design in Wicklow including milliners, homeware creators, jewellers and ceramicists and is an initiative of Wicklow County Arts Office supported by Wicklow County Enterprise Board and Bray Town Council.

Style by Substance

Twit-Twoo: 1. Clare Hughes and Fiona Dunning; 2. Aoife Cogan on the catwalk; 3. Shelly Corkery, Deirdre McQuillan and Jane Shepherdson. (Pix. Leon Farrell / Photocall)

The fashion brand Whistles has been beloved by women for many years, and no doubt a new crop of fans came on board since they discovered the Duchess of Cambridge wore the label on occasion. Old devotees and new admirers alike turned out in their droves for a special ‘Style by Substance’ event hosted by Irish Times fashion editor Deirdre McQuillan at Brown Thomas recently. Whistles boss Jane Shepherdson was the special guest and guided the fashion followers through a runway show of the brand’s latest collections.

Third Age glam night

(Pix. Brian McEvoy)

Ultimate Girls: 1. Julienne Lucas and Therese Hennessy; 2. Sybil Mulcahy; 3. Sarah O’Neill and Emma Gavagan.

Over 100 happy people were glad they kept last night free to celebrate the Third Age Ultimate Girls Night out at Harvey Nichols, Dundrum Town Centre. As well as the chance to choose a dressy Christmas number, guests were offered skin care demonstrations, make up tips and style advice followed by a champagne reception and gourmet dinner.

Guests were welcomed by Mary Nally, CEO of Third Age, a voluntary organisation with 1,000 older volunteers throughout Ireland working in their communities as tutors, help line listeners, advocates and more.

Third Age ambassador Grace O’Shaughnessy rubbed elegant shoulders with fashion designer Aideen Bodkin, businesswoman Lucy Gaffney, food critic Orla Broderick, and a host of other luminaries before joining MC Sybil Mulcahy for the three course meal, which ended decadently with Harvey Nichol’s famous chocolate dessert.

Generous diners dug deep to support a raffle for Senior Help Line, one of Third Age’s programmes. This confidential help line for older people received over 10,000 phone calls last year. Many callers lead lives of hidden loneliness and depend on Senior Help Line for friendship and social contact.

Maxtravaganza

To the Max: 1. Karen Millen and Lisa Fitzpatrick; 2. Anne Morgan ; 3. Darina Ni Chuinneagain and Declan Donnelly with Claire Byrne. (Pix. Kieran Harnett)

Maxtravaganza, the 10th Anniversary Ball in aid of the Baby Max Wings of Love fund took place this year at Fitzpatrick's Killiney Castle. Supported by Max Benjamin and Nadim Sadek's Inish Turkbeg Island & Whiskey, the gala was one of the most successful to date.

Over 300 guests attended including design legend Karen Millen, Paul Harrington, Presidential runner up Sean Gallagher and wife Trish, presenter Emma O'Driscoll, Alan Cantwell, author Marisa Mackle, Brian and Linda O' Shea-Farren and style expert Lisa Fitzpatrick who has a new TV show making its debut this Friday on TV3.

A fantastic auction kept bidders on their toes and there was also a best dressed lady prize (judged by Karen Millen, natch) with lucky winner Vicky Higgins winning a Gucci watch from Michel Jewellers, Cork and a hat designed by milliner Susanne Oliver.

www.babymax.ie

Powers Short Stories

Power of Words: 1. Geoff Power & Andrea Carter; 2. Yvonne Hall & Niamh O Carroll; 3. Mairead Roberts & Emmet Kelly. (Pix. Brian McEvoy)

Short story writers from across Ireland descended on Dalkey for the launch of Celebrating What Truly Matters: Powers Irish Whiskey Short Story Collection in aid of the Irish Hospice Foundation. A special compilation of over 40 short stories, the book showcases Ireland’s hidden literary talent with tales that reflect on mellower moments in time and the warmth of relationships, family and friends.

Great character and full bodied, the celebratory event was in keeping with Powers as it was hosted in the beautiful surrounds of Finnegans in Dalkey. Officially launching the anthology was best-selling author Sheila O’Flanagan, who highly praised and encouraged each of the contributors to the book for which she has written a foreword.

Master story teller Maeve Binchy was there to lend her support with husband Gordon Snell and delivered a touching and witty impromptu speech which was very much appreciated by all. She encouraged budding writers and felt they had a lot to contribute towards uplifting the mood of the country during tough times.

Along with short story writers who contributed, among them fashion designer Mairead Whisker and film maker and producer Hilary Fennell, were Pat Magee and Grainne Galvin of Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, Tim O’Dea, Caroline Lynch and Niamh O’Carroll of the Irish Hospice Foundation, along with book editor Patsey Murphy, newly appointed MD of Quintessentially Wayne Cronin, artist Lydia Brow and fashion photographer Sarah Doyle.

Beautifully published and illustrated throughout, Celebrating What Truly Matters Powers Irish Whiskey Short Story Collection will be available to buy from Easons and Supervalu stores nationwide, The Old Jameson Distillery and Midleton Distillery stores, and online from www.hospice-foundation.ie and www.powerswhiskey.com retailing at €9.99.

Powers Whiskey funded all costs relating to the book to ensure all proceeds from every sale go to the Irish Hospice Foundation.

Tyrrell & Brennan celebration

Couture: 1. Niall Tyrrell and Donald Brennan; 2. Katy Gannon; 3. Max Carpio, Amy Greenwood and Colin Fagan. (Pix. Kieran Harnett)

Niall Tyrrell & Donald Brennan celebrated fifteen years in business this week with a spectacular showcase event at the Grand Canal Theatre. During that time they have developed a reputation as Ireland's leading couturiers with clients from all around Ireland and the UK. Many well know faces from the world of film, media, politics and music as well as discerning woman from across the country wear Tyrrell & Brennan Couture and were in attendance to raise a toast to the design duo.

At their private showrooms in Dublin and by appointment, Donald or Niall guide each client carefully through their couture collection. The process, where it is possible to try on samples, is to select the right silhouette from the range, then the fabric and finally to choose the colour. The subsequent fittings will ensure a perfect and individualised fit. A team of skilled artisans produce each piece with care in the Dublin studio.

Tyrrell & Brennan have had not one but seven of their dresses grace the red carpet at the Oscars and many more at other top events. In addition their ladies tailoring service has been appreciated by many senior business and political figures in Ireland. Former President McAleese wore Tyrrell & Brennan Couture when she greeted HM Queen Elizabeth at the Aras earlier this year.

Il Fico Italiano

That’s Amore: 1. Michael Leonard & Inge Burnis; 2. Pippa O’Connor, Georgia Salpa & Rosanna Davison; 3. Tara Reynolds & Andrea Roche. (Pix. Brian McEvoy)

Already a big success in Naas and a firm favourite with leading lights in Kildare Il Fico restaurant has just opened a new branch in Kilcullen. The success story continues for hotelier Michael Leonard and Sicilian chef Matheo Patti as they celebrated the launch of the latest addition, taking over the old Riverside Restaurant and bringing 25 new jobs to the area.

This smart restaurant with its opulent interior is a treasure trove of style and elegance in a beautiful settling on the river Liffey and brings and a whole new dining and entertainment offering to the area.

The owners and new management were joined for dinner by some of Ireland’s top models such as Georgia Salpa, Tiffany Stanley and Andrea Roche. Also among the guests were Pippa O’Connor and Brian Ormond, Andy and Tara Reynolds, new mum Elaine Roddy and Berni Cafolla, whose sister Patricia Roe wowed everyone with her great voice (she’s there every Sat and Sun).

Il Fico embraces authentic Italian cooking using only the finest freshest ingredients and homemade pastas. Pizza’s are cooked in a traditional clay oven and with their thin base and rich toppings are mouth-wateringly seductive. Like all good Italian eateries, the over-riding feeling is benvenuti.

Happy birthday Karen Millen

Millen around: 1. Laura Scanlon, Hannah Devane and Tara O Farrell; 2. Karen Koster; 3. Sheila Flaherty and Denice McNamara. (Pix. Leon Farrell / Photocall)

High street retailer Karen Millen celebrated 30 years in business with a party to unveil a limited edition anniversary collection of 30 must-have accessories. The Grafton Street store was thronged with KM fans including Karen Koster, Lisa Fitzpatrick and Hannah Devane.

The event was one of 30 being hosted worldwide to celebrate this big occasion for the iconic fashion brand. With Jacob's Creek Reserve reception, mini makeovers from the LA Make-up Academy and tunes from CiCi Cavanagh it was a night to remember.

Supper Club at The Pink

In the Pink: 1. Bill Cullen and Carol Byrne; 2. Eddie Jordan; 3. Jackie O’Sullivan and Tara O’Brien. (Pix. Brian McEvoy)


The Pink nightclub on Dawson Street boomed as it welcomed guests to celebrate the official launch of Ireland’s first and much anticipated Supper Club. Guests were greeted with an extravagant mix of entertainment, PINK mojitos and delicious culinary treats served up by chef Tim Van Buchem. And while club boss Robbie Fox may be gone from the door there’s still a warm welcome waiting for patrons.

The Supper Club is hoping to reinvent the social wheel and aims to change the way we socialise in the city. Whether you wish to sample the culinary delights on offer or taste some of the fine wines from their expansive list, The Supper Club @ The Pink is expected to become Dublin’s newest hotspot. With a dream team of industry experts behind the venture, coupled with their drink, dine and dance concept, it is destined to be the venue of choice for Dublin’s party people. Watch that space.

Sorel to the Winter rescue

Best foot forward: 1. Maura Derrane; 2. Annemarie O’Connor; 3. Lisa Cannon. (Pix. O Media)

Having already had some pretty shocking weather already this year - worst flooding in Dublin EVER – it’s no surprise that we’re looking towards some practical yet stylish winter wear. Top of the list for the discerning fashionista has to be a pair of Sorel boots, the uber cool footwear brand favoured by the likes of Kate Hudson, Justin Timberlake and Elle MacPherson.

Since 1962 Sorel has been making these amazing functional boots, and the fact that they look great has just been a bonus. In really cold conditions, boot soles need to stay warmer than the ground so the grip stays active, and snow boots all require an inside liner that can be changed and washed.

Sorel have mastered all of these elements while also incorporating details such as faux fur trims, laces and unique prints to ensure that boys, girls and even children can look stylish even in the harshest of weather (here’s looking at you snow).

To celebrate the arrival of the Sorel collection Fitzpatrick’s of Grafton Street hosted a launch event which was attended by a huge number of well know Sorel fans. Xpose’s Lisa Cannon, Maura Derrane of the Four Live show on RTE, fashion writer Annemarie O’Connor, stylists Karl Smith and Sarah Rickard along with Alex Fitzgerald and Jessie Collins from Irish Tatler.

In clubs and bars of the chic ski resorts across Europe it’s all about Sorel and this is one trend that’s sure to last the test of time, just check out the testimonials on www.sorel.com and see.

Win Win

Tin Tin: 1. Saoirse Ronan and Liam Cunningham; 2. Shannon O'Leary, Kerry O'Driscoll and Shannon Costelloe; 3. Sybil Mulcahy with her children Genevieve and Hugh. (Pix. Brian McEvoy)

The Savoy was the place to be on a rainy Sunday as a host of well known film faces and movie buffs stepped out for the Irish film debut of The Adventures of Tin Tin, the 3D movie. With the voices of Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis, and Daniel Craig it’s based on the iconic "Tin Tin" comics which have been a staple of thrill seeking readers worldwide for decades.

Those who braved one of the wettest evening in Irish history included Saoirse Ronan, Bill Hughes, Lorraine Keane, boyband Boulevard, actors Martin McCann and Liam Cunningham, Baz Ashmawy and TV3’s Debbie O’Donnell.

Getting ready to Exchange

Cocktail hour: 1.Eva Hoan and Jennifer Crowe; 2.Steve Turnbull and Caroline Connor; 3.Niamh Henry and Clare O'Grady. (Pix. Paul Sharpe)

The next big Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project is nearly upon us and this year Ireland has been teamed with Thailand. In preparation for the global event Smirnoff recently hosted a cocktail masterclass with international mixologist Kenji. Guests at the evening in the Grafton Lounge were encouraged to mix up their favourite tipples and to even invent their own.

The winner on the night though was easily the Smirnoff Bangkok Collins created to celebrate the Nightlife Exchange Project and inspired by the tastes of South East Asia. For anyone who has visited Thailand, the Bangkok Collins will remind you of some of your favourite Thai places and includes traditional Thai ingredients that will makes you want to experience the Thai culture for yourself.

Tickets for SMIRNOFF Nightlife Exchange Project are now on sale exclusively through the Smirnoff Ireland facebook page www.facebook.com/smirnoffireland, for just €10 each. Guests at the event in the CHQ Dublin this Saturday night can expect to sip on delicious drinks, enjoy the best of Thai food and dance to the hottest global entertainment and international music acts including, Australian dance sensation the Potbelleez, Fourplay DJ’s and DJ Gordo. Be there.

Children of Lir

Theatrical: 1. Claire Prempeh and Richard Mills; 2. Paul Ronan ,Saoirse Ronan and Monica Ronan; 3. Michael Binchy and Suhaila Binchy. (Pix. Brian McEvoy)

The Grand Opening of The Lir, National Academy of Dramatic Art at Trinity College Dublin has taken place. Developed by the Cathal Ryan Trust in partnership with Trinity College Dublin, The Lir is formally associated with the world-renowned Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).

The new academy trains young actors, designers, directors, playwrights, stage managers and theatre technicians to the highest international standards for careers in theatre, film, TV, radio and digital entertainment.

Among those at the opening were Danielle Ryan, Charlene McKenna, Saoirse Ronan, Alan Stanford, Aoibheann Garrihy, President elect Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina, Pat Shortt, Joe Duffy and Michael Colgan .

Be Original

Window dressing: 1. Anastasia Campion and Amanda Man; 2. Darren Kennedy; 3. Angela Scanlon and Johnny Savage. (Pix. Kieran Harnett)

The next, hotly anticipated, release of Windows Phone (code-named Mango) was unveiled during a launch event at the Morrison Hotel in Dublin recently. Guests at the event were treated to music mash ups by DJ CiCi Cavanagh and sipped on uniquely created Windows Phone “Be Original” cocktails for the night.

As part of the Windows Phone “Be Original” campaign three creative trendsetters, well-known fashion stylist Angela Scanlon, photographer Morgan and artist and illustrator Bren B were challenged to discover the new elements of Windows Phone and create an original artistic creation inspired by the software. All of the ambassadors were in attendance along with DJ Mo Kelly, rugby player Mike Ross and fashion stylist Darren Kennedy.