Into the Light

Enjoying John Caffrey's Art Benefit, "Into the Light", at the Merrion Hotel were: 1. The artist himself John Caffrey and actor Liam Cunningham; 2. Lorna Caffrey and Sinead Deegan; 3. GAA star Gerry Quinn, Malachy Geelan and Wayne Cronin; 4. Joanne Caffrey.

Harvey Nichols A/W

Pictured at the Harvey Nichols A/W show were: 1. Marie Delaney; 2. Dee Breen, Sarah Heaney and Clodagh Flanagan; 3. Karla Ni Mhuadaigh and Jane Doyle; 4. Avila Lipsett and Emmett O'Brien.

Harvey Nichols, the mecca for fashion lovers, hosted a spectacular Autumn / Winter show on Wednesday evening much to the delight and amazement of all in attendance. Guests were greeted by an extravagant in-store tropical jungle with exotic plants, a waterfall and real live birds. Models posed amongst the trees and foliage and even swung from trapeze, adding to the overall dramatic effect.


Enjoying the champagne and cocktails were Astrid Brennan and James Flanagan, Ben Bringer and Nadine Wai – O’Flynn, Taragh Loughrey – Grant of Channel 6, racing driver Emmet O’Brien and broadcaster Barbara McCarthy, who is busy with preparations for a new show on RTE with Joe Duffy. Sian John of L’Oreal caught up with Corinna Field, both laden down with HN bags, like may of the guests.


Celebrating it’s 2nd anniversary in Dundrum Town Centre this week, Harvey Nichols have firmly established itself at the forefront of cutting edge fashion, stocking top names such as John Galliano, Alexander McQueen and Matthew Williamson. Dee Breen, head of PR and Marketing, expressed her delight at the success of the evening and reflected on a magnificent couple of years in business. Hear hear!

Happy Birthday Jack!

Enjoying the hospitality of Jack Daniels were: 1. Shane Burns and Kim Lowry; 2. Gemma Moore, Maeve Larkin and Hannah O'Leary; 3. Melissa Nortje and Anneke Mulder; 4. Helena Murphy and Cormac Battle; 5. Emma Barns winner of the Harley Davidson motorbike.

The month-long celebrations for Jack Daniel’s 157th birthday came to a climax with a rock ‘n’ roll style birthday party presided over by top 2FM DJ Cormac Battle. In fine rock and roll tradition, one lucky Jack Daniel’s fan was presented with the keys to a fantastic Harley Davidson motorbike, following promotions taking place this September in 60 venues nationwide.


Jack’s Birthday is celebrated throughout the entire month of September. Why? A town fire destroyed the courthouse records, including the birth certificate of one Mr Jack Daniel. Conflicting dates on Jack’s and his mother’s headstones have left his date of birth in question so he gets a whole month of birthday celebrations. But for a man as unique as Jack Daniel, one day just wouldn’t seem proper anyway!


Guests at the party were entertained by Ireland’s hottest act, DIRECTOR. Hailing from Dublin’s Northside, the meticulously crafted pop of this fantastic foursome is set to thrill the select audience of competition winners and invited guests. Snowball and Till the Morning Comes, selected from Jack Daniel’s nationwide JD SET series of gigs supported DIRECTOR, having been named Jack Daniel’s Hardest Working Bands. Now in its 5th year, the JD Set is all about encouraging, promoting and mentoring dedicated and ambitious hard working Irish bands and giving them a platform to perform around the country.


Commenting on the JD Birthday Celebrations, Noel John McLoughlin of Jack Daniel’s Ireland:
“Jack’s birthday is now a permanent fixture on Ireland’s rock ’n’ roll calendar. Jack Daniel’s has a hugely loyal fan base with a keen interest in live music – invitations to our annual Birthday Party are like gold dust. The party just gets bigger and better every year. The combination of great music, great drinks and a great Harley Davidson give-away makes for an electric atmosphere.”

Your M&S

Marks & Spencer last night hosted their Autumn / Winter collection to a large number of guests in City Hall. Among the highlights was the GD25 range which was created by legendary fashion designer George Davies to celebrate his 25 years in the business. Responsible for revolutionising high street fashion, his capsule collection is beautiful, affordable and limited - it's only on sale for the next 25 days!

Enjoying the pre-show party were: 1. Nadine Wai - O'Flynn; 2. Sarah McGovern, Karen Fitzpatrick, TV3's Colette Fitzpatrick and Ruth Griffin; 3. Actress Rachel Kavanagh; 4. Jenny MulHolland and George Davies; 5. Jane McDonnell of The Gloss and couturier Peter O'Brien.

L'Oreal celebrate new MD

L'Oreal hosted a champagne reception in the library of Dylan Hotel last week to celebrate the appointment of Trevor Tye as head of the L'Oreal Luxury Proucts division in Ireland. Many well-known faces, greeted by Helen Feely and Sian John of L'Oreal, turned out to wish the new boss every success in his new role including Image magazine editor Melanie Morris, Triona McCarthy, Richard Kavanagh and Leanne De Cerbo of Social & Personal and stylist Cathy O'Connor.

Pictured at the party: 1. Jean Pierre Charriton and Trevor Tye raise a glass; 2. Ramona and Canice Nicholas; 3. Claire Byrne; 4. Carol Wallace and Cliodhna Crowley; 5. Wayne Cronin and Joanne Hegarty.

Italian Job

At the Benetton show were: 1. H.E. Thomas C. Foley and Michelle Megan; 2. The collection; 3. Daniella Capone and Lucy Pilgrim; 4. Scenes from the show; 5. On guard at the Italian Embassy.

Benetton AW 07

United Colors of Benetton presented the Autumn/Winter 2007-08 collections at Lucan House, the official Italian Ambassador’s residency, last week, thanks to the kind invitation of H.E. Dr. Lucio Alberto Savoia, the Italian Ambassador to Ireland.


On show were items from the very special 40th Anniversary collection, which was the protagonist of the celebrations that Benetton held in Paris to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the brand. This collection takes its inspiration from the typical Benetton elements of colour and wool, used in an ever-new and creative way to convey the brand’s spirit as a point of convergence of cultures, races and nationalities.


The Benetton company is present in Ireland with more than 50 stores and new openings are planned. Among the guests welcomed by Nicola & Daniela Capone of Benetton Ireland were US ambassador H.E. Thomas C. Foley, writer Marisa Mackle, Fashionfilosofy.com's Arsheen, top model Alli MacDonnell of Compton Models (John Compton co-ordinated the show) shared the catwalk with her son Alex, RTE's Orchestra leader Frank McNamara attended with wife Teresa Lowe, Lucy Pilgrim and Denise Kennedy and event organiser Puffin Moynihan. With catering from La Banca restaurant in Lucan, the event oozed Italian style, typical of Benetton.

Hotel & Catering Awards

Hotel & Catering Review, Ireland’s leading magazine for the hospitality industry, announced the winners of their hotly contested annual Gold Medal Awards at a gala dinner in The Shelbourne Hotel this week. The Gold Medal Awards recognise and reward excellence within the Irish hotel and catering industry. At the awards were: 1. Siobhan Barret & Terri Fagan; 2. Sue & Frank Grennan; 3. Kieran Moore & Micheline Corr; 4. Top chef Dylan McGrath of Mint restaurant picks up a Gold Medal Award from Michael Barry of Remy Martin.

Ladies Who Lunch

At the recent Brown Thomas ISPCC fashion show in The Shelbourne Hotel were: 1. Valerie & Patricia Roe; 2. Clodagh Hopkins & Penny Dix; 3. Alison Doody & Aisling Purcell; 4. Tara Logan & Valerie Craughwell.

Fashionistas

Even more fashion was celebrated last week (despite Dublin Fashion Week having ended the previous). On Thursday Louise Kennedy showcased her A/W 2007 collection at her beautiful home and atelier on Dublin’s Merrion Square. Invited guests, such as Lisa Fitzpatrick, Eimear Mulhearn and Jackie Bolger, were treated to a salon style fashion show, while enjoying champagne from Louise’s new Tipperary Crystal Aurora line.



Inspiration for this seasons collection was taken from early 20th century Russian nobility, who fled the Russian revolution and went on to influence the world of fashion. Opulent colours, sumptuous fabrics and subtle detailing made it one of Kennedy's most exciting yet.



Meanwhile, the ladies who lunch took pleasure in viewing the Brown Thomas A/W collections at the annual ISPCC lunch, which was hosted by Pamela Flood in The Shelbourne Hotel. A Jacobs Creek Sparkling Rosé reception greeted the 350 patrons, who marveled at an Hermès ensemble (flown in especially for the event) which opened the show. Other labels showcased included Burberry Prorsum, Giambattista Valli and Gucci.



Enjoying the luncheon were Shelly Corkery and Stephen Sealey of Brown Thomas, ISPCC Committee members Valerie Craughwell and Penny Dix, Alison Doody, designer Helen Cody and Aishling Kelly, who, with her husband Cpt. Tom Fox, hosted the christening of their first born, Daniel, the following day in Newbridge, Co. Kildare.

LK AW

At the Louise Kennedy fashion show at 56 Merrion Square were: 1. Louise Kennedy and Lisa Fitzpatrick; 2. Louise Doheny and Laura Doheny; 3. Annette Rocca and Valerie Craughwell.

House of Fraser A/W 07

Enjoying the House of Fraser show at the British Ambassadors residence were: 1. Caroline Pernham, Jane O'Brien and Ciara Mullaney; 2. Jean Ann Taylor and H.E. Ambassador David Reddaway; 3. Glenda Gilson and Baiba Gaile; 4. Colette Fitzpatrick and Lorraine Keane; 5. Sarah Davey and Laura Bradley.

House of Fraser

The British Ambassadors Residence in Sandyford proved to be the ideal setting for the launch of House of Fraser’s Autumn/Winter collections ’07 on Wednesday evening. The new look for House of Fraser’s exclusive own brand “Linea” was showcased on the evening with exclusive jewellery, footwear and handbag ranges joining the fashion ensembles.


The Ambassador, H.E. David Reddaway, welcomed guests, including Rosanna Davison, Lorraine Keane, Jane McDonnell of The Gloss and designer Helen McAlinden, to his beautiful home and even gave guided tours. A Moet & Chandon champagne reception set the tone of the evening as the fashionistas swapped summer holiday stories. House of Fraser representatives Matt Chambers Caroline Perham flew over especially for the event and were thrilled with show, commenting that an event like it would be hard to rival in the UK.

Picnic-ers

In the VIP Bacardi B-Live area at Electric Picnic were: 1. Ruth O'Hare, Tara Duff and Loraine McCrawley; 2. Evan Saier and Marcina Manraj; 4. Chantelle Megan and Maria Lynch; 5. Sandra Ryan and Louise Looney; 6. Lisa Bergkvist, Johan Alennius and Monica Wolff.

Electric Picnic

Probably a highlight of the entire Irish summer was last weekends Electric Picnic, which saw over 32,000 revellers descend on the Crosby family’s Stradbally Hall estate in Co. Offaly. With the VIP area resembling a typical weekend night in Renards, there was no shortage of well-known faces among the crowds.



Event organiser John Reynolds made sporadic appearances, taking time out of his busy schedule to ensure that his guests were enjoying the festivities. Among those I spotted were Jonathan Rhys Myers, singer Paul Brady and broadcasters Dave Fanning and Ryan Tubridy.



As always Naoise Nunn’s Leviathan marquee, with its lively mix of debate and discussion, was a popular haunt. David McWilliams, Minister Eamon Ryan TD and writer Irvine Welsh were some of those in attendance, while publisher John Ryan paid a special visit from New York.



Meanwhile enjoying the cocktails over at the Bacardi B-Live VIP area were TV3’s Collette Fitzpatrick and her boyfriend Neil McDermot, Niall McCrudden, artist Darryn Lee and publisher Trevor White. The big after parties, however, continued at the luxurious Heritage Hotel in nearby Killenard where many of the performers were based.



Regularly topping the polls as the best music festival in Ireland (and Europe) Electric Picnic continues to go from strength to strength, just ask any of the 34,000 revellers.

Knuttel MINI

At the party to unveil the Knuttel MINI were: 1. Graham Knuttel with his MINI; 2. Mo Kelly; 3. Anusia Grennell and Rasher; 4. Emily O'Donnell and Marissa Mackle; 5. Jenny Huston and Ingrid Goodwin.

Knuttel MINI

Associated with everything young, hip and trendy, MINI cars once again pushed the ‘cool’ factor to the extreme at a party this week. They recently commissioned artist Graham Knuttell to paint a MINI and unveiled the finished piece at the Gallery of Photography in Temple Bar on Tuesday evening.


Encapsulating the true spirit of MINI, the one-off car is a vibrant expression of Knuttell’s work, with vivid colours and his trademark faces adorning the body. A long time fan of the car (he’s owned several throughout the years) he wanted to portray the sense of adventure that begins with owning one. And he’s in good company too - other creatives who have customised MINI cars include Donatella Versace, Mario Testino and Missoni.


Among the guests admiring the art on wheels were TV presenter Sile Seoige, Ben Bringer and Emily O’Donnell, Marisa Mackle, top chef Dylan McGrath of Mint Restaurant and Dee Breen of Harvey Nichols. Maria Fusco, who recently closed her popular Ave Maria fashion boutique, was also there and informed me of her plans to open a new wine bar.


The Graham Knuttel MINI will visit dealerships throughout the country over the coming months and, according to brand manager Nicola Bissett, will then be auctioned for charity.

CROSS Cancer Action Rugby Ball

Pictured at the CROSS Cancer Action Rugby Ball in the Four Seasons recently were: 1. Jeannie Regan; 2. Aine Dempsey & Maddi Jefferies; 3. Kate Gleeson & David Clarkin; 4. Alison & Greggor Brown; 5. Professor & Mrs John Reynolds.

CROSS Rugby Ball

The inaugural CROSS Cancer Action Rugby Ball took place recently in the Four Seasons Hotel in Dublin. Raising funds for CROSS (Cancer Research of the Oesophagus and Stomach), a charity led by Professor John Reynolds of Trinity College and St James Hospital, the Rugby Ball saw over 380 people out en force to support the rugby themed event.

On arrival, guests enjoyed Mickey Finns Appletinis before making their way into the rugby themed room. Elvery Sports created suitably themed centre pieces with the green, gold and white of Ireland in a mix of rugby balls while Risteard Cooper from Apres Match entertained the crowd with his litany of impressions.

After enjoying a menu of treats specially designed by the team at the Four Seasons, David Agar took to the stage to oversee the auction. In keeping with the theme, the lots under the gavel proved popular as many were ‘must-have’ items for any rugby fanatic. From private training with Irish coach Eddie O’Sullivan to signed and framed Irish and Munster jerseys, all inclusive trips to the Ireland v France game at the 2007 Rugby World Cup to a St Michael’s SCT winners jersey, as well as a host of other items, the auction was a fiercely fought out by the many rugby fans at the event and raised over €150,000 for the worthwhile charity.



After the auction, guests hit the dance floor led by The VIPs and the partying went on until the wee hours. Among the guests attending included designer Helen Cody, Paul Shearan, RHA Artist Laura Cronin, ex Irish rugby player Paul Wallace, Conor and Marie Headon, Ronan and Michelle Murphy, Sonny and Sheila Knowles, Barry Connolly from Richmond Marketing, Mark Wilson from Babco, Michael O’Boyle from Absolute Rugby, Kate Gleeson from Diffusion Boutique and Nikki Creedon from Havana Boutique.

CLRP Gala

The Childrens Leukemia Research Project hosted a gala fundraiser in the Four Seasons Hotel last weekend. Among the glamourous guests were: 1. Yvonne & Ronan Keating; 2. Glenda Gilson; 3. Sinead Ni Curnain & Kathryn McKiernan; 4. Itan Besry & Katy French; 5. The Edge.

Green Synergy

Heineken Green Synergy returns to the capital this October (Wednesday 10th – Sunday 14th) with an exciting mix of established and emerging international artists performing in Dublin's finest venues over five days. Following its highly successful launch in 2006, Heineken Green Synergy promises a cracking line-up to match and surpass its debut bringing big guns such as Alabama 3, Asian Dub Foundation, Broken Social Scene presents and Turin Brakes to the Village Quarter. At the launch party in Solas this week were: 1. Larry Love and Devlin Love of Alabama 3; 2. Devlin Love strikes a pose; 3. Johney Boyle and Mo Kelly; 4. Olivia Corbett, Crick from Star Little Thing and Amanda Farrell.

a|wear A/W collection show

Irish fashion power house awear recently hosted their A/W collection show to much fanfare. As always, the venue was out of the ordinary with a new office block on Mespil Road being comandeered for the evening. Pictured were: 1. Samina Zia and Sarah Morrissey; 2. Emily O'Donnelly and Wendy Duggan; 3. Laura Woods; 4. Sarah Morrissey and Ian Kenny.

a|wear

Also at the awear fashion show were: 1. Seana Long and Yvonne Goucher; 2. Ciara Stringer and Derrick Carberry; 3. Phoebe and Emma Laing; 4. Lia Tallon.

Pintxo Opens

Bar Pintxo wine and tapas bar officially opened its doors this week in true Spanish style with a fun bull run, fire eaters and Spanish music. Bar Pintxo is the sister restaurant of The Port House on South William Street which has been enjoying a very successful year since its inception in July 2006. Located at 12 Eustace Street Pintxo is a beautiful candle-lit, bodega style tapas bar is spread over the ground floor and basement of the building with a seating capacity for eighty people.

At the opening party were: 1. Models Sarah, Lisa, Emily and Nicoletta; 2. Richard Kavanagh and James Brown; 3. Sean Montague and Norman Pratt; 4. Alex Carey and Jenny Lyons.

Pintxo

Pictured at the opening party for the new Pintxo tapas bar in Temple Bar were: 1. Models Emily Rose and Daniel Lengycl; 2. Hedda Dick and John Maher; 3. Alex Carey and Alan Amsby; 4. Laurie Cearr and Myles McWeeney.

Diet Coke Design Can

Diet Coke recently hosted a lunch in the Dylan hotel to launch their limited edition range of design cans. Irish designers Eileen Shields, Brian McGinn, Joanne Hynes, Kate Fine, Lisa O'Riordan and Vivien Walsh each unveiled their interpretation of the design cans and showcased their unique creations inspired by this year's Diet Coke Design Can Collection. Pictured at the event are: 1. Pamela Flood & Caroline Morahan; 2. Sharon Walsh & Alex Phelan; 3. Xpose Girls Lisa Cannon, Karen Koster and Sybil Mulcahy.

Inchydoney Island Ladies Polo

The Inchydoney Island Ladies Polo Tournament and Lunch in aid of The Bubble Gum Club, took place on August 17th, 18th with the finals and Ladies Day on the 19th in the breathtakingly beautiful setting of Polo Wicklow’s Ballyhenry Polo Club in Ashford, Co. Wicklow. Ladies Day and the Final matches commenced with a Jacob’s Creek Sparkling Rose Reception to the sounds of The Dublin Hot Club Jazz Band. After the 300 guests enjoyed a sumptuous summer lunch carefully prepared by Masterchefs Hospitality, celebrated Irish designer, Deborah Veale previewed her new Autumn Winter 07 Collection.

Pictured on the day were: 1. Peter Harris & Sinead Desmond; 2. Miriam Ahern & Belinda Walsh; 3. Deborah Veale & Corina Grant; 4. Wendy Herbst with Des & Ann O'Dowd.

Dublin Theatre Festival

The Dublin Theatre Festival, this year sponsored by Ulster Bank, was launched recently at a garden party in Merrion Square where guests were treated to music, food, wine and performances. Details of the festival were announced and, running from 27th September – 14th October 2007, it is set to be bigger than ever. Pictured at the party were: Cormac McCarthy of Ulster Bank, Pauline McGlynn and Peter Crowley; Roddy Doyle and Sean McGinley; 3. Slaine Kelly, Norman Pratt and Rachel Kavanagh; 4. Sean McGinley and Marie Mullan.

GLAM @ Cocoon

Cocoon, Eddie Irvine's trendy bar, last night hosted the launch party for the new Thursday social, GLAM @ Cocoon. Enjoying Absolut cocktails and sounds from Avila Lipsett, the glamorous girls (and boys) were out en force and included: 1. Michelle McManus & Niamh Swail; 2. Ruth O'Neil; 3. Eddie Irvine & Alan Amsby; 4. Sara Kavanagh and Michelle McManus; 5. Sinead O'Caroll; 6. Sonya & Virginia Macari.

IMMA Summer Party

The Irish Museum of Modern Art recently hosted their annual Summer Garden Party for over 500 patrons of the arts. Pictured enjoying the event are: 1. Aisling Dunne & Jessica Kelly ; 2. Angel Belleram & Erin Thomas; 3. Nuala Hayes, Dr Michael Casey & Mieke Vanmechelen; 4. Carol Eakins & Fiona Cashell; 5. Gavin Murphy & Rayne Booth.

Launch of the Inchydoney Island Ladies Polo Tournament

Pictured at the launch of the Inchydoney Island Ladies Polo Tournament, which takes place in Polo Wicklow on Sunday August 19th in aid of the Bubble Gum Club, were: 1. Eimear Kelly and Mary Barry; 2. Sandra Giles, Carlos Caminito and Siobhain Herbst; 3. Peter Harris and Ruth Barry; 4. Nadine Wai-O'Flynn, Sandra Byrne, Kate Earlie and Emma Gavagan.

Chukka!

Also at the launch of launch of the Inchydoney Island Ladies Polo Tournament were: 1. Charlie Hanrahan and Deborah Veale; 2. Lisa Cannon and Jackie Rafter; 3. Ruth McCarthy and Morris Cahill.

Getting quiet on the Social Front

It being the height of the summer season, the social scene is fairly quiet at the moment as people to and fro from holiday destinations. Rosanna Davison is just back from Las Vegas while Astrid Brennan is off there next week and Avila Lipsett is back from St. Tropez while Cindy Cafolla and co. are there this week. The Galway Races will occupy the masses for the next few days, while the Dublin Horse Show will be hosted in the RDS the following week. Thankfully though there are still a select few parties happening about town.



The top floor of Fallon and Byrne was bedecked in rousing red and teeming with women (stop me before I sound like a Jackie Collins novel) on Thursday night as the Slimfast "Love Your Shape" party was hosted to celebratethe launch of the new curvy Slimfast bottle. Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘why was Wayne there, he’s hardly a candidate for Slimfast?’, and you’d be right, I’m not.

But in the name of research (and pink champagne) I was ummoned by party planner Gemma Kenny to have a look at some of the latest designs on show from one of Ireland’s premier couturiers Synan O’Mahony. He’ll be one of the judges at the Evian Best Dressed Ladies Day at the aforementioned RDS next week, and having dressed the likes of Jasmine Guinness, Yvonne Keating and Georgina Ahern, he knows what makes a stylish lady.

Channel 6 beauty Jenny Buckley was the emcee for the evening and with everything from stylists, milliners, hair & make up experts, caricaturist and even professional bra fittings (I’ll leave that one to you imagination) the Slimfast guests left with a firm grasp of how to dress their curves and love their shapes.



Details of one of the final social events of the Summer 2007 calendar were announced on Friday evening at the United St. Stephens Green Club, with thelaunch of the Inchydoney Island Ladies Polo Tournament, in aid of the BubbleGum Club. In its eighth year, the glamorous event attracts the top Irish, UK, American and Argentinean players to challenge for the Inchydoney IslandCup in the picturesque setting of Polo Wicklow at Ballyhenry in Co. Wicklow.

Ireland's Siobhan Herbst and Derval Hoey, who have just returned from theUSA where they were representing Ireland and taking on Yale University andRhode Island were there and will be taking part in the tournament this year. Joining them to play will be Nina and Tamara Vestey, two of the top female polo players in the world.

Guests enjoyed a champagne reception in the newly opened courtyard of the private members club, among them Ruth McCarthy from Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, Nadine Wai-O'Flynn, Emily O'Donnell, Ann Smurfit, Lisa Fitzpatrick, designer Deborah Veale and TV presenter Sinead Desmond. TV producer Debbie O’Donnell was also there with her boyfriend Johnnie Carroll and was thrilled to announce that they’re expecting their first child soon.

Ladies Day and the Final matches commence at 12 noon on Sunday 19th August with a Champagne Reception to the sounds of The Dublin Hot Club Jazz Band. As the polo takes place, the 250 guests will enjoy a sumptuous summer lunch. I’m not sure if tickets are still available but you can check out http://www.bubblegumclub.ie/.

All funds raised from the event will go to the Bubble Gum Club, which was set up in 1994 to look after children with life threatening illnesses and children in crisis. Since it's inception 12 years ago, the Bubble Gum Club has looked after over 15,000 children. According to these children's consultants, the trips and events organised by the Bubble Gum Club can add months and even years to the children's lives as it gives them something special to look forward to and reminisce about.

Love Your Shape

Pictured at the Slimfast Love Your Shape evening were: 1. Jenny Buckley from Channel 6 and Couturier Synan O'Mahony; 2. Sinead Sanderson; 3. Sinéad Kavanagh & Shauna Penney; 4. Muireann McCormack; 5. Diane Henderson & Fionnuala Diffen.

Slimfast Fashion

At the Slimfast 'Love your Shape' evening were: 1. Niamh Griffin & Jennifer Good; 2. Former Miss Ireland Sarah Morrissey & Ruth Griffin in creations by Synan O'Mahony; 3. Mary Brown, winner of a Synan O'Mahony dress with Slimfast boy Peter.

Refresh with Coors Light

Coors Light recently hosted a party in a warehouse with the theme of Refresh, which included graffiti artists, DJs and dancers. Looking suitably refreshed were: 1. Aisling O'Brien, Will St. Leger & Ciara Whyte; 2. Emma Cavanagh & Emily O'Callaghan; 3. Rebecca Crotty & Deirdre Poole; 4. Carol Fagan & Jason Kelly; 4. Caoimhe St. John & Deirdre Brosnan.

Special Olympics Gala

Pictured at the recent gala ball in aid of Special Olympics Ireland, hosted in the new Hilton Hotel Limerick and gererously sponsored by LALCO, were: 1. Helen & Patrick McCarthy; 2. Aine Mulcahy & Nicola O'Callaghan; 3. Una Holiday, Sinead Cobbe & Donna O'Connor; 4. Shane Daly & Mary Morris.

Evian Ladies Day launch

Some of the guests at the launch party for Evian Ladies Day (which takes place on August 9th at the RDS) were: 1. FMI Aoife Cogan, newly crowned Miss Ireland Blathnaid McKenna & FMI Sarah Morrissey; 2. Kerry O'Sullivan & Carolyn Odgers; 3. Judges couturier Synan O'Mahony & TV presenter Pamela Flood; 4. Astrid Brennan & Tamso Doyle; 5. Lucy Kennedy.

Highs and Lows of Society

There have been many trials and tribulations involving the rich and famous lately. Ubiquitous socialite Paris Hilton, music producer Phil Spector and former head of BP Lord Browne to name a few. The troubles incurred by these well known people provide media fodder for the entertainment hungry masses, despite their situations being far from entertaining. There’s something compelling about ‘those more fortunate’ having a hard time (makes a difference from hearing about ‘those less fortunate’ I guess).

One trial that I‘ve been following closely though is that of Conrad Black, or Lord Black of Crossharbour to give him his full title. He is the former head of media empire Hollinger International, which published newspapers such as the Daily Telegraph in the UK and the Chicago Sun-Times in America. Conrad Black was accused of siphoning off millions and millions of dollars from Hollinger, through various corporate means, of which I won’t bore you here – details of the trial are widely available on the net.

Apart from the corporate payments that were said to have been unauthorised, it was the lavish lifestyle that Conrad and his wife, Barbara Amiel (aka Lady Black), lead that drew attention to the issue of mismanagement of funds. It was claimed that Hollinger cash was used for their personal entertaining, including a birthday bash for her, which was hosted at La Grenouille, a top restaurant in New York.

The party, for 80 of their close friends, cost over $60,000. However, it was the payment of just $20,000 out of the Black’s pockets, with the remainder being picked up by Hollinger, that drew suspicion. I met Barbara Amiel once at a cocktail party in London sometime ago and it was easy to see that she was used to the finer things in life. A stunningly elegant woman, she had an air of superiority about her, even though she couldn’t have been a nicer person.

Black has always claimed his innocence (in terms of the birthday bash, he said there were Hollinger clients present and therefore the balance could be put down as a business expense), and vowed to hit his detractors with lawsuits upon his acquittal. I, for one, thought him innocent too. Having followed the trial over the last number of months I decided that he had done no wrong; acted recklessly with the company credit card maybe, but not conducted any illegal activity.

Anyway, I was on holiday in Monaco last week when I read that Lord Black of Crossharbour was found guilty and convicted of three charges of fraud and one of obstructing the course of justice. I was genuinely shocked and surprised. The Blacks were fond of the French Riveria and I thought ‘it might be a while before he experiences this again!’. As I write he is awaiting sentencing but will appeal, natch. Conrad Black is down but not out.



Another piece of bad news I read while I was away was the death of Nigel Dempster, the renowned British gossip columnist and social diarist. He wrote for the Daily Mail for over 17 years and is credited with moulding the then staid ‘diary’ section of the paper into what we have today – the entertainment, social interaction and celebrity gossip that fuels the media.

Throughout his career he broke major stories, such as the resignation of Harold Wilson as Prime Minister and the news of Prince Andrew's engagement to Sarah Ferguson. On one occasion, at an event in Phoenix Park in Dublin, he was confronted by an aristocrat after he had reported that the man was known to friends as "Handbag". Such was Dempster’s predilection for mischief that no story, no matter how tall, could not be believed. A close friend of the late Princess Margaret, he too was familiar with places such as Cannes and St. Tropez, but, alas, no more.



Enough of these negative tidings though. One party I attended just before I left was the launch of the Evian Ladies Day, and it would have been hard to choose an odds-on favourite from the glamour on display that night.

Guests included Evian Ladies Day Judges Pamela Flood and couturier Synan O'Mahony, Lucy Kennedy (sans Podge and Rodge), TV3's Karen Koster, Virginia Macari, fashionista Maria Fusco, Rachel Wyse, and TamsoDoyle. Evian's own Kerry O'Sullivan managed to look very calm despitehaving another big day looming; her wedding in September.

Guests were treated to a choice of champagne, Kir Royale or, of course, Evian at what was a very pink affair. A fashion parade showcased the latest high style looks with recently crowned Miss Ireland Blathnaid McKenna in one of her first major public appearances. There’s a top prize worth €10,000 up for grabs at the event in the RDS on the 9th of August.

OK, so €10k won’t get you a lifestyle like Lord and Lady Black, nor open doors to the society world favoured by Nigel Dempster, but hey, it’s a start.

Water Angels

At the Water Angels Ball in Marbella were: 1. Valerie Roe; 2. Marc and Lynn Quinlan (Founders of Water Angels); 3. Kate Moran and Karen Mc Evoy; 4. Lisa Murphy.

Water Angels

Enjoying the recent Water Angels Ball at Finca La Conceptionin in Marbella were: 1. Bernard and Theresa Rocca; 2. TV3's Alan Hughes and Aisling O' Loughlin; 3. Water Angels Ball Committee; 4. Annette Rocca.

Kildare Voice

At the launch party for the new Kildare Voice paper were: Gillian Quinn and Killian O'Sullivan; 2. Brenda Donohoe and Gerry Ryan; 3. Pippa O'Connor, Glenda Gilson, Samantha Mumba, Katy French and Andrea Roche; Glenda Gilson and Ronan Ryan.

Raise your Voice

Despite the not so summery weather prevailing throughout the country this week, it did not stop our much loved party people getting out and about for what was a busy week in terms of the social calendar. Last Thursday, Kildare was the place to be for the launch of the latest Kildare paper to hit the stands, the Kildare Voice and Naas Voice.



Over 500 people attended the big bash in the Osprey Hotel, Naas, to celebrate the launch with well known faces from the world’s of sports, music, media and fashion among those in attendance. Greeted by fire eaters, stilt walkers and a range of entertainment, guests enjoyed a champagne reception before MC for the evening Gerry Ryan got proceedings underway. Celebrations went on well into the night with entertainment from renowned pianist and singer Paul Harrington. Among those in attendance were Kildare Voice contributors Tracey Piggot, Valerie Roe and Gillian Quinn as well as Irish rugby stars Denis Hickie and Shane Horgan and GAA’s John Doyle.



Valerie, who many of you will know from her time at the helm of Lillies Bordello, will pen the social diary for the K4 set (K4 being the Kildare version of Dublin's D4). Still no official word on where she will open her new nightclub, which is rumoured to be in association with Ronan Ryan of Town Bar & Grill. A few places mentioned include a location on Barrow Street (too far from town I think) and the old Georges Bistro on Baggot St. (although I've noticed no work being carried out there). Another possibility is the former McGrattans pub, also on Baggot Street. Extensive refurbishment has been undertaken on the upper floors lately (with a ubiquitous convenience store just opened on the ground store). All will soon be revealed , no doubt.



Among the other guests were Irish footballing legend Niall Quinn, who was joined by Renault Ireland Chairman (soon to be former) Bill Cullen and his partner Jackie Lavin. Raising the fashion stakes at the event were chart topper Samantha Mumba, Oona Doyle of Newbridge Silverware and Bubble Hits presenter Glenda Gilson with fellow top Irish models Andrea Roche and Katy French.

Dressing Up for Summer

Hellmann's hosted a party in Fallon & Byrne recently to launch the Dressing Up for Summer promotion with guests including: 1. Alan Byrne & Samantha Mumba; 2. Sybil Mulcahy; 3. Adam Booth & Susan McFadden; 4. Keith Barry & his wife Mairead; 5. Roisin Ni Mhorda & Andrew Rudd.

Lording it Up

At the gala opening of Clontarf Castle were: 1. Amanda Houlihan and friend; 2. Claire Louise & Shane O' Donoghue; 3. Maeve O'Higgins & Dee Kavanagh; 4. Yolanda O' Meara & Marcia O' Connor; 5. Louise Kennedy & Enda O' Meara.

En force; En masse!

There have been a host of well attended bashes across the city recently, with many of the guests making last minute connections before they fly off to the various parts of the world for summer holidays. Almost every party this week was packed to capacity with the general buzz of vacation plans thick in the air.

One man who’ll be looking forward to a break is An Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, who has had a busy time of it lately. With Dáil Eirean in recess later this month I’m sure he’ll still be in demand, but hey, no rest for the wicked I guess. He was doing the honours at the recent gala opening of the newly refurbished Clontarf Castle, where the guests included designer Louise Kennedy, photographer Richie Stokes and his stunning girlfriend Abbey Smith and RTE’s Joe Duffy.

The 12th century hotel has been given a 21st century makeover with the completion of a €10million stylish interior renovation. Situated in Dublin’s leafy north side suburbs, Clontarf Castle which is steeped in history has maintained its original structure, while incorporating an internal modern design scheme.

On arrival, guests enter the new atrium style lobby which is the finest example of the merging of modern design with the Castle’s original features. The Castle’s bedrooms have been luxuriously updated with junior, superior and even Grand Presidential Suites designed by Belfast-based interior design team, Red Sky Design. Meanwhile The Indigo Lounge is an uber-chic bar that will rival the city’s top night spots, lavishly decorated with rich colour, oversized sofas and chandeliers. There’s no excuse for not being King of the (Clontarf) Castle now.



Giving the girls a good excuse to show off their tanned, and no doubt toned, legs was the annual Social & Personal Summer Party, which was hosted by publisher PJ Gibbons in Howl at the Moon. The event also saw the announcement of the magazines Top 100 Sexy Legs list, a coveted list to be on and even better as it was in association with Nivea.

Enjoying the party and the cool cocktails, organised by S&P events supremo Richard Kavanagh, were Lorraine Keane, Glenda Gilson, Paolo and Ivano Cafolla, actor Liam Cunningham and Aishling O’Loughlin.

The top 5 positions, or the 10 sexiest legs if you will, belong to (in no particular order) former Miss World Rosanna Davison, socialite Cindy Cafolla, TV presenter Pamela Flood, TV news anchor Colette Fitzpatrick and singer Andrea Corr. There are 95 more recipients but I don’t have time to list all so you’ll just have to get your hands on the July issue of Social & Personal to find out.



For many years Cocoon, on Hibernian Way, occupied the top spot when it came to stylish and hip bars. And indeed it was top of the heap. But there comes a time when people get bored and the fickle trend setters move on to the next big thing. I’m not saying that happened to Cocoon, but it certainly lost cache over time and began to look a bit shabby around the edges.

Well, fear not darling readers, Cocoon has had a face lift and owner Eddie Irvine hosted a bash recently to celebrate the re-opening. The party was rather ostentatiously entitled “One Enchanted Evening with Eddie Irvine” and yes, that should have been enough to keep me away but I guess curiosity got the better of me.

Poor Eddie must have been very enchanted as I didn’t see him all night, but that may have been due to the capacity crowd who turned up for the festivities (maybe we were all curious). Among the crowd were Gordon Darcy, Channel 6 presenters Michelle Doherty and Jenny Buckley, The Blizzards, TV3’s Karen Koster, Paul Byrom, Laura Haughey, Astrid Brennan and Geraldine Mahony, who was looking forward to a bumber weekend of racing at the Budweiser Irish Derby at the Curragh. Irvine’s former business partner John Foley was a surprise guest, a sign perhaps that all is forgiven between the two after their recent court battles.

Anyhoo, the bar looks well, but don’t expect major changes, we’re talking cosmetic here. In the way that Halina Ashdown – Sheils can make you look subtly younger or thinner, you might not think Cocoon has had a makeover but you’ll notice something different. Society fave Avila Lipsett has been brought on board to revive the clientele and will be in situ Friday and Saturday nights.

Oh, and the place has recently been voted by Condé Nast as one of the top Hot Spots in Dublin. Back on top baby!

Pop Art

A private viewing of Steve Kaufman art works was hosted in the Shelbourne Hotel last week. A protegé of Andy Warhol, Kaufman's work is highly collectable and a big exhibit and sale is planned for Dublin soon. Pictured at the viewing were: 1. Caitriona O'Connor, Emma Jones and Romy Carroll; 2. Jason O'Callaghan and Etain Boyd; 3. Jonothan Sultan and Sophie Frederix; 4. Sean Montague and Emma Jones; 5. Daphney Antoine and Sarah Clohessy.

Check out www.PopArtIreland.com for more info.

Bubble Gum Club Helecruise

Childrens charity the Bubble Gum Club recently organised a Helecruise for sick children which saw over 50 helicopters mobilised around the country, scenes of which are captured here.

Sweet Smell of Success

The latest instalment of the hugely popular Shrek movie franchise premiered in Dublin last week to much fanfare. Fittingly hosted in the largest movie theatre in the land, Savoy No.1, the place was abuzz with excitement, from adults and kids alike, many of whom arrived early to meet the ogre himself.

Keith and Lisa Duffy, Marty Whelan, Niall McCrudden, Gerry Ryan and Taragh Loughrey – Grant were all in attendance and accompanied by their cute offspring. Also there were Joanne Byrne, stylist Cathy O’Connor and socialite Richard Spence, who has just launched his latest venture, www.myoverseasproperty.ie. I highly recommend it (the website - and having a property overseas).

As you would expect, Shrek the Third is full of witty one-liners aimed to please a broad audience – the aforementioned young and old. It’s funny but I thought not as funny as the first two and it would have been wise for the producers to leave it at that (but I see that Shrek 4 is already in the making). Sure to be a huge hit, it’s quality chewing gum for the brain.


One man who knows when to leave on a high note is writer, producer and actor David Coffey. He’s the brains behind the RTE hit Dan & Becs, which has been commissioned for a second series and will be broadcast in September. However, Dave has decided not to continue the series after that and wants to leave on a high note, alá The Office.

The second series has already been completed and he is now working on his next projects, he told me when I met him at a party hosted by Finlandia Vodka last Thursday. We were in top nightclub Renards to celebrate midsummer night, which apparently is a huge event in Finland and is marked as a joyous occasion. As the club was transformed from blue to green to red (to signify the changing elements of the day) we were treated to a range of different cocktails from the mixologists at Finlandia.

Society fave Avila Lipsett provided the DJ intro (she’s currently the most in demand DJ in town) with Mo Kelly and Arveen playing into the night. Trevor Musgrave (just back from Marrakesh), Rachel Kavanagh, Ivano Cafolla, Nadine Wai – O’Flynn, stylist Graham Cruz, music mogul Simon Rudd and Richard Kavanagh, who is getting ready to host the Social & Personal summer party this week, also enjoyed the evening.


A party with a difference was hosted by Fragrances of Ireland last week, to launch Inis Or, the latest scent in their ever popular perfume collection - fact fans: Inis is the best selling perfume in Ireland. Apart from the new perfume itself, the bash took place on board the Jeanie Johnston, a stunning replica of a 19th century sailing ship. Very Pirates of the Caribbean.

The intimate and trés exclusive event (numbers were restricted due to the location – and girls couldn’t wear heels!) was attended by a host of style setters lead by Sophie Labbé, the French lady who is the 'nose' for Fragrances of Ireland and the person who is responsible for Inis Or.


While I'm on the subject of style setters, I have to tell you how impressed with new gourmet burger joint Jo Burger in Rathmines. These guys know about understated cool. Graffiti art on the walls, vintage comic annuals as menus, live DJ everynight. And the food! The last time I was there I saw a gang from Food & Wine magazine at the next table, and they're not easily pleased.

Jo Burger - the sauce on a bun burger.

Ahoy!

On board the Jeanie Johnston for the launch of Inis Or, the new perfume from Fragarences of Ireland, were: 1. Niamh Hickey, Jane Morgan and Marie McGrath; 2.David Cox, Sophie Labbé and Lilabeth Horn; 3. Carol Hayes, Lisa Brady and Corina Kenna.

Shop 'til you drop...

Kildare Village, the newsest designer outlet on the block, hosted their grand opening last week with a magnificent party. Among the guests were: 1. Ian Galvin and Fran Nolan; 2. Tamso doyle; 3. John Minihan and Maureen Bergin ; 4. Davido Crescenzi and Eileen Dunne; 5.Virginia Macari and Tara O'Leary and Tara Leinster. According to CondéNast Traveller, it is one of Europe’s “best sources of chic yet affordable clothing”, with thirty-six international designer labels .

Open!

Newbridge Silverware recently opened their new Style Icons Museum with a gala evening. At it were: 1. Ronan O'Gara and his wife Jessica; 2. Jackie Lavin and Bill Cullen; 3. Commissioner Charlie McCreevy; 4. Katy French and Andrea Roche.

Summer Feeling?

As I write this, the weather outside is more akin to a damp, cold November day – not mid June! Have we had our Summer already? No, of course not, but it’s a saying that pessimists bandy about every year. I always see the bright side and I’m sure there are more tropical climes just over the horizon …

Just like the clear blue sky, hot sunny days that we had last weekend – the perfect weather for Garden Party, the intimate music event that took place at Ballinlough Castle last Saturday. The Pet Shop Boys played a blinder and Hot Chip did not disappoint the capacity crowd they played to. Among those I spotted around the fabulous walled gardens were fashion designer Virginia Macari, Sinead Ni Chonaill (just back from Rome), Andrea Dillon Horan, Eoin Higgins from The Dubliner, Melanie Morris of Image and DJ Hugh Scully, all getting some practice in for Electric Picnic which happens at the end of August.


Tuesday night saw the reopening of the very famous Ierne ballroom as Caffertys @ The Ierne on Parnell Square. The VIP reception saw many of those who had been involved with the Ierne, and bands of the time, attending. Now, if you don’t know what I mean by ‘of the time’ then don’t worry, it probably wasn’t your time but may have been your parents.

Joe Dolan came to see the wonderfully restored and modernised ballroom and former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds was in great form as he officially opened the venue. He owned and operated a group of ballrooms many years ago so was in familiar territory. Also attending was the legendary performer Sean Dunphy who represented Ireland in the Eurovision many years ago (and whose son Brian will be appearing later this month in the venue). Others at the reception included Hugh Hardy who managed Larry Cunningham and The Mighty Avons, Corrina Grant, Miss Ireland Sarah Morrissey and Aoife Cogan. After the party the first performer to take to the stage was Jimmy Buckley who performed to the opening night audience.

The venue plans to have a mixture of top bands, like Jimmy Buckley, Mick Flavin, Indians, Louise Morrissey to middle of the road bands like Dickie Rock, Showband Show, Bjorn Again Dominic Kirwan to late night discos and is aimed at the 25 plus age group with late bars nightly. Rock on!


Sarah Morrissey had a busy week. She was also at the ‘tasty’ Dressing up for Summer party hosted by Helmanns on Wednesday. Her year as reigning Miss Ireland comes to a close at the end of this month as the Miss Ireland finals take place in Cork. She was one of the models at the fashion show and party in Fallon & Byrne, with Samantha Mumba, magic man Keith Barry, actress Amy Huberman, Andrew Rudd, Roisin Ni Mhordha and Katy French also in attendance.

Incidentally, I also had dinner there during the week and spotted Bill Cullen and Jackie Lavin, TV presenter Taragh Loughrey – Grant and writer Lorcan Roche amongst the diners. Lorcan has just released his latest novel The Companion and is in the process of choosing which studio is to get the film rights to the book.

Speaking of tasty food, Taste of Dublin is on this weekend in the Iveagh Gardens, off Harcourt Street. Among the celebrity chefs in attendance are Anthony Worrell Thompson, Angela Hartnet of The Connaught in London, Frederic Condonnier of The Mill at The Village at Lyons and Derry Clarke of l’Ecrivain. Should the miserable weather stay away I recommend you head there for some great grub and vino collapso in what used to be Dublin’s best kept secret.

Caffertys @ The Ierne

At the opening night of Caffertys @ The Ierne were: 1. Ben Dolan, former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds and Joe Dolan; 2.Corinna Grant and Aoife Cogan; 3. Corinna Grant and ballroom owner James Cafferty; 4. Sarah Morrisey and Baiba Neilande.

Lucien Freud

Pictured attending the opening of the Lucian Freud Exhibition, which was held in the Irish Museum of Modern Art and runs until September 2nd, were 1. Nicola Gordon-Bow and Janet Mullarney; 2. Betty Ballagh and Mick O’Dea; 3. Professor John S. Ratcliffe and Mark Pearce; 4. Marianne Kelly and Kim Warnock; 5. Anne Mahon and Joe Mulholland.

Freudian slips

Hollywood, hhe land where showbiz was born (and rehab, but that’s another story), has come to Co. Kildare! If you fancy seeing a slice of tinseltown history get yourself down to the newly refurbished Newbridge Silverware showrooms in Newbridge, where the Style Icons museum as just opened.

William and Oonagh Doyle hosted a lavish opening party last week to celebrate this latest feather in the Newbridge hat. The museum, located above the showrooms, is a breathtaking space and resembles a trendy Gordon Ramsey restaurant more than anything else, such is the interior design and lighting. With memorabilia from the likes of John Wayne, Marlynn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, the beautiful space dedicated to the stars of the silverscreen is worth visiting.

Invited guests enjoyed a pink champagne reception (and beyond) followed by a gala dinner in the Silver restaurant. Among those in attendance were designer Synan O’Mahony, Brendan O’Connor and his wife Sarah Caden, model du jour Katy French (on again, off again!), Meg O’Keeffe of Image Magazine, Andrea Roche, rugby star Ronan O’Gara, Mary Treacy of Clerys and Jackie Lavin.

Commissioner Charlie McCreevy, who was accompanied by his wife Noleen, officially open the new space and was delighted to be on home turf, such is his hectic Euro schedule in Brussels. The opening was made all the more special with the addition of several unique pieces on loan form world famous memorabilia auction house Juliens, which were on view to the public for a limited period.



An exhibition of the works of Lucien Freud, arguable one of the most influential and important living artists of our time, opened at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) this week to much excitement. Comprising of some 50 paintings and 20 works on paper and etchings from the last six decades, several being completed just months prior to the exhibition, with others never shown before in a public venue.

Best known for his portraits and nudes, Freud’s subjects include his family, friends, lovers and fellow artists. His early paintings and works on paper are often associated with a meticulous control of the brushstrokes and line, depicting people, plants and still-life, including several made while living in Ireland. Grandson of the father of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud, Lucien, who is now in his 80s, was unable at attend, but the show was opened by his daughter Rose Boyt.

Maura McKillen and designer Mairead Whisker, poet Anthony Cronin and Anne Haverty, Lord and Lady Burlington, artists Louis Le Brocquy and Anne Madden, The Hon. Desmond and Penelope Guinness, Patsey Murphy of The Irish Times, Christine Ryall of Christies were among those enjoying the evening summer sun as the party spilled outside.



Back to Kildare, and last night one of the most dramatic fireworks displays ever seen in that part of the country lit up the night sky. Celebrating the official opening of Kildare Village, Ireland’s premiere outlet shopping venue, the pyrotechnics were just one part of the entertainment on the evening.

Dancers, performance art, parades and music all added to the spectacular evening with food from Richard Corrigan and Fred Cordonnier of The Village at Lyons and Derry Clark of l’Ecrivain to feed the hundreds of guests, including Ian Galvin, Roxanne Parker, Julian Benson, fashionista Bairbre Power and socialite Cindy Caffola.

With discounted shops like Calvin Klein, Reiss, Karen Millen and Cotton Club offering 30 - 65% discounts (as well as Starbucks and Dunne & Crescenzi) there’s something for everyone. Bargain!

Giddy Up!

Pictured enjoying the recent Boylesports Guineas Festival at The Curragh were: 1. ‘Fashion on the Turf’ Best Dressed winner Nicola Clancy with finalists Rose Buggy and Eva Hayes; 2. Niall and Gillian Quinn; 3. John Higgins, Liam Boyle and Ken Doherty; 4. HRI Fashion Ambassador Kathryn Thomas.

Barbie

Ireland’s 3rd National BBQ Promotion kick starts this year with National BBQ Week running from Monday June 4 until Sunday June 10. Celebrity chef Kevin Dundon was cooking up a storm at the recent launch in the Trinity Capital Hotel.

Pictured enjoying the launch evening were: 1. Sharon O'Rourke and Nicola O'Reilly; 2. Karen Doyle and Laura Connolly; 3. Shane McGonigle, Keith O'Haire and Ealron Kennedy; 4. Chef Kevin Dundon, Paul Kelly and Joanna Brennan; 5. Wayne Cronin and Triona McCarthy; 6. Neasa Curran and Caroline Byrne.

For more info check out www.nationalbbq.ie

Idolize

Idol Vodka, the new premium French vodka made from Pinot Noir & Chardonnay grapes, was launch recently at an exclusive party in the Trinity Capital Hotel. Pictured were: 1. Gail Ferguson and Abbey Smith; 2. Emily O'Donnell, Sara Jane Wai - O'Flynn and Nadine Wai - O'Flynn; 3. Avila Lipsett; 4. Simon Paul and Laura McCarthy.

Fashion Reigns

With finger permanently on the pulse, fashion giant Topman know what’s hot and what’s not and with the new southside store Dublin guys now have a style mecca to rival the girls. Skinny jeans and distressed t-shirts never looked so good.

To celebrate the opening of No.41 Grafton Street, Topman hosted a music bash at the cavernous CHQ last week which attracted a hip crowd of trendsetters. Looking like they just stepped off the set of the latest Hot Chip video, the guests enjoyed an aural extravaganza from bands such as the 1990s, Good Shoes and The Holloways. Irish band Fight Like Apes won a slot at the gig too.

Among the fashionistas there on the night were Alex Fitzgerald, Niall O’Farrell (jetting off to Monaco for the GP the next day), Bairbre Power (just back from Madrid where she was recording a feature for the Afternoon Show) and Eoin Higgins (who is leaving The Dubliner for pastures new very soon).

Also there were Tania Adams of Topman, Brendan Rodgers, and Siobhan O’Dowd of Pod concerts. She’s busy organising the upcoming Garden Party music festival in Ballinlough Castle, home of the Nugent family. The 1-day, intimate event takes place on Saturday June 9th and with acts like the aforementioned Hot Chip, Pet Shop Boys, Carl Cox and the Bodytonic crew, it’s one gig not to be missed. Think of it as Electric Picnic’s little brother.




The Boylesports Guineas Festival at the Curragh last weekend was a huge success, wind and rain regardless. The ladies stepped up to the plate in the fashion stakes with competition rife for the Best Dressed title. The lucky winner, Nicola Clancy, bagged a cool Mitsubishi car for the year among other prizes, after the judges decided she was the most stylish on the day.

Fashion Ambassador Kathryn Thomas (elegant in a black and white crazy striped dress) and her fellow judges Alan Hughes, Triona McCarthy, Gillian Quinn and Jacinta O’Brien, had a tough deliberation, such was the level of style. Other winners on the day included Finsceal Beo, who won the feature race of the day – the Boylesports Irish 1000 Guineas.

Other racegoers on the day included snooker players Ken Doherty and John Higgins, rugby star Ronan O’Gara, Sir Anthony O’Reilly and Lady O’Reilly, Ray O’Brien, songwriter and producer Karl Broderick and business tycoon John Magnier.




Despite the pouring rain of Wednesday evening the style brigade turned out in their droves to attend a chic cocktail party at the Trinity Capital Hotel for the launch of Idôl, the new premium vodka from France. Famed for fine wines, France is now home to the first vodka in the world produced from grapes – the vodka for wine lovers! Despite the inclement weather, or perhaps because of it, talk on the evening was of upcoming holidays and summer plans.

PR guru Sinead Ryan and her beau Malachy Geelan were just back from a long sojourn in Nerja, Norman Pratt was shopping in Milan, while food connoisseur Andrew Rudd had been filming for TV3 in Madrid.

Popular party girl Avila Lipsett proved that she’s more than a pretty face as she entertained the crowd with her DJ skills. An essential element to a good party, she’s being booked for all the big bashes this season and is busy planning her forthcoming trip to Marbella. Astrid Brennan is jetting off to LA and Vegas soon, while Triona McCarthy will be hitting the social scene in Monaco. Gavin Kilduff is also off to Marbella as is popular novelist Marisa Mackle, who will be putting the finishing touches to her next book.

A surprise guest on the evening was Jean-Claude Boisset, president of Boisset France, the makers of Idôl Vodka. He also happens to be the third largest wine producer in France, so he knows his Pinor Noir and Chardonnay grapes. He thought the Dublin launch was one of the best he’s been to of all the Idôl events worldwide.

Among the other guests enjoying the specially commissioned cocktails from Gareth Lambe of Venu Brasserie were Halina Ashdown – Shiels, Dr. Marco Lombardi, deputy head of the Italian Embassy, TV presenter Taragh Loughrey – Grant, Katie Jane Goldin and Sandra Byrne.

Chi - Chi

Chi, the trendy Asian restaurant in Blackrock Co. Dublin, celebrated its 1st birthday this week. At the party were: 1. Siobhan O'Connor and Norman Pratt; 2. Una Healy and Eoin Macken; 3. Louise McDermott and Sonia Harris and 4. Rebecca Lawless and Sinead Farrell.

Go Racing!

At the launch of the upcoming racing season in the Four Seasons were: 1. Tamso Doyle and David Cox; 2. Caroline Morahan; 3. Debbie O'Donnell and Marisa Mackle; 4. Astrid Brennan and Sienna Cunningham.