The Dungeon

Among those at the launch party for The Dungeon were: 1.Eithne Fitzpatrick Scott-Lennon, Paul Harrington and Lisa Fitzpatrick; 2. Paul Ryan and Dave Moore; 3. Jody O'Connor and Jody Wood; 4. Paul, Eithne and Tony Fitzpatrick.

Following a major refurbishment, the award winning Dungeon Bar at Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel in Killiney re-opened its doors last week with a very special invite-only reception. Sounds ominous indeed but it's a most welcoming place I can assure you.

The evening commenced when guests were greeted by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel’s very own Jester and Dungeon Master. Renowned musician Paul Harrington provided entertainment for the evening, while guests sipped on Champagne and special Dungeon Bar cocktails and dined on a selection of canapés from the new menu.

Those in attendance included a number of high profile guests from the social and hospitality circles, including Eithne Fitzpatrick Scott-Lennon, her sister in-law and top stylist Lisa Fitzpatrick, fashionista Gwen Chappel, model Vicky Fennell and General Manager and Chairman of the board of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Tourism, Nicky Logue.

Newly created zones, with an individual mood and furnishings, make the re-vamped Dungeon Bar the perfect spot for both lively social gatherings and those seeking a little more intimacy. The spectacular granite topped bar, finished with leather, marble and wood panels, helps complete the transformation into an elegant social space ideal for viewing a favourite sporting event, having a quiet drink or dining on some of the freshly prepared culinary delights, specially created by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel chefs.

Located in the oldest part of Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, the Dungeon Bar mixes the traditional elements of the castle with a sophisticated modern deco feel. Many of the original castle features have been preserved whilst modern warm colours and atmospheric lighting have also been included, to give the area a truly unique and comfortable feel. The Dungeon Bar also features a hearty open fire and large plasma screens throughout.

Speaking of the new Dungeon Bar, Eithne Fitzpatrick Scott-Lennon, owner of Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel said, “We are delighted with the new-look Dungeon Bar. We hope that our regulars along with new customers enjoy the revitalised atmosphere and menus.”

Summer at Conrad Dublin

At the Conrad were: 1. Tracey Burke + Nicole Langan; 2. Stephen Gibbons + Jennifer Maguire; 3. Dani Conway + Ali Macdonell; 4. Kate Goodison

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Conrad Dublin kicked off the summer in style recently with Summer Lovin..... A Conrad Style Fashion and Music Event. The event attracted aspiring fashionistas and music lovers who attended the summer fashion show styled by top stylist, Jan Brierton, and indulged in the sounds of Bodytonic DJ’s, The Blood Red Mountain Band and cult favorites, Stand. The show marked the first of a series of music events happening at Conrad Dublin this summer.

The chic and contemporary interior of the Conrad Dublin, was transformed into a summer garden paradise for the show. The champagne flowed freely before the fashion show kicked off at 7.30pm, with guests enjoying Gossett’s champagne and delicious Conrad canapes. Those in attendance included “The Apprentice” star Jennifer Maguire, fashion designer Paul Alexander and models Ali McDonald and Dani Conway. Also in attendance was newly appointed General Manager for Conrad Dublin Martin Mangan and Area General Manager Friedrich Schaefer.

Models dressed in the latest cutting edge trends by leading fashion brands Pepe, Tommy Hilfiger, Hackett, Espirit, Furla, and BCBG MAX AZRIA blazed a trail down a fantasy garden runway. Hair and make up was funky and stylish, provided by Kazumi and Lancome respectively.

Bodytonic entertained guests into the night and are set to entertain revellers in Barcelona at the annual Sonar music festival in a few weeks time.

Horse Racing Ireland summer party

At the HRI party to announce the summer season were: 1. Kathryn Thomas, Tamso Doyle and the new Fashion Ambassador Karen Koster; 2. Dalton and Lisa Fitzpatrick; 3. Kathryn Thomas is tickled pink.

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The fashionistas were out in force on the Ice Bar at The Four Seasons Hotel, Ballsbridge to launch the summer racing season with Xpose’s Karen Koster who was crowned Horse Racing Ireland Fashion Ambassador 2008.

Speaking at the event, Karen said she was delighted to be this year’s HRI Fashion Ambassador “As a reporter, I’ve covered the best dressed lady competitions at various race days throughout the country, and I’ve always been impressed by the style. The experience is really inspirational as its gives me ideas on what to wear to the next race meeting, so I am absolutely delighted to be this year’s HRI Fashion Ambassador. Following in the footsteps of Caroline and Kathryn, I’ve some very high heels to fill, but I’m looking forward to a summer of style, socialising and of course plenty of betting!”

The style cognoscenti and racing set were out on the night with ladies wearing the latest summer season’s must haves and the bar was transformed with a beautiful powder pink catwalk, and a burst of floral colour by uber-chic florist Appasionata who added a burst or brilliant colour to the venue.

A fashion show presented by Dundrum Town Centre was a huge hit with the crowd with this seasons hot new looks for the summer race season. A millinery competition by the prestigious Grafton Academy was judged by Dundrum Town Centre’s Jayne O’Keeffe. DJ Poppy Lloyd spun seriously cool tracks to get the crowd going while guests sipped the Pimms and Razmopolitans on the night.

Glam attendees included Brian Kavanagh, top jockey Pat Smullen and his wife Frances Crowley, previous HRI fashion ambassadors Caroline Morahan and Kathryn Thomas, Xposes Glenda Gilson, Lisa Fitzpatrick who came along with her young son, chick lit author Marisa Mackle, Nadine Wai-O’Flynn, Jilly and Amy Hamilton, jockeys Declan McDonagh and top trainers David Wachman, Robbie Osbourne and Fozzie Stack.

Bombay Sapphire Designer Glass

Also at the Bombay Sapphire party were: 1. Avril Collins and Norman Pratt; 2.Sinead Christain of Waterford Crystal, Claire McAlister from Glenavy, Co. Antrim, winner of the Bombay Sapphire Designer Glass Competition, designer and judge Ciaran Sweeney and Karen Halpin of Bombay Sapphire.

Bombay Sapphire Designer Glass

Among those at the Bombay Sapphire Designer Glass party were: 1. Darren Kennedy and Jedda Downey; 2. Derbhla and Declan Leavy; 3. Marisa Mackle and Ben Bringer.

The elite of Ireland’s socialites and celebrities turned out in all their glam to toast to the success of emerging Irish designers at stylish event held in The Morgan Hotel, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 for the final of 2008 Bombay Sapphire Designer Glass Competition, in association with Waterford Crystal. The tasty event saw Bombay Sapphire martini cocktails served to perfection, canapés especially created to compliment the Bombay Sapphire Botanicals and the music came courtesy of master mixer at The Morgan Hotel.

This year’s celebrity judge Ciaran Sweeney jetted into Dublin from the States in time to judge the popular competition and to present the awards. Fellow judge Alexander Fitzgerald had also just returned from Marbella and sporting a fantastic tan. The judging is just a pit-stop for Fitzgerald who is heading to the New York next week for a friend’s wedding. Enjoying the Bombay Sapphire cocktail celebration were Jedda Downey, Darren Kennedy, Irish Chanteuse Camille O’Sullivan, socialites Romy Carroll, Norman Pratt, Ben Bringer and Eoin Kavanagh and chick-lit author Marissa Mackle.

Also spotted were former Miss World Rosanna Davidson and her charming boyfriend Wesley Quirke, stylist Graham Cruz, City Channel's Izabela Chudzicka, Nadine Wai O’Flynn, Neil Doherty, RTE’s Sandra Byrne, jazz artist Maria Tecce and Diane Henderson. TV3’s Colette Fitzpatrick and Audrey McGrath looked stunning as ever while Ozzy Osbourne's Irish based son Louis and his wife Louise Osbourne enjoyed a quick cocktail before having to leave to look after their daughter Mia, who has just celebrated her first birthday.

Commenting on the designer glass competition Ciaran Sweeney said: “I think the competition is an amazing opportunity for emerging Irish designers – to actually see their designs come to life and be produced is fantastic and to have such great opportunities lie ahead of them thanks to this one event. The entries exceeded our expectations, the technical detailing and design concepts are first class – it really was a hard decision and after much deliberation we agreed on the winner”.

After much deliberation by the judging panel Claire McAlister from Glenavy, Co. Antrim and a student at the National College of Art and Design was announced as one the winner. The complex infusion of the ingredients in the Bombay Sapphire blend provided Claire with her initial inspiration, for her winning creation, entitled ‘In Suspense’ imagining the ingredients as tiny particles held in suspension within the walls of the bottle. She thought of a tornado, and how it picks-up anything in its path, hurling them into a state of suspension within its powerful form.

Claire experimented with smashing and shattering a Bombay Sapphire bottle, stripping it of its manufactured structure and separating it into delicate particles. The effect created was inspiring and beautiful, with the complex patterning and sheer glistening of the glass fragments created a stunning visual impact. Claire received a Waterford Crystal trophy and a prize fund of €1,000.

Claire will represent Ireland at the global final being held during April at Milan Design Week, the world’s biggest contemporary design fair. The talented young Irish designer will be competing on the global stage against 26 other countries in front of an audience of some of the international design community’s most influential figures, and will be hoping to win the $15,000 prize.

The Waterfront

At the Waterfront launch party were: 1. Andrew Rudd and Dearbhla Murphy; 2. Chris and Afra Jones; 3. Ziggy Polinski and Audrey Ferris.


Top property company, Ellier Developments, celebrated the launch of its stylish new apartment development, The Waterfront, at hip Hanover Quay, with an uber-cool cocktail party which was attended by over 200 eager investors from the worlds of banking, finance and telecommunications with legal eagles and fashion industry glamour adding to the mix. Glam guests on the evening included top property developers Chris Jones and Frances Rattigan, TV3's Andrew Rudd, VIP magazine's Michael O'Doherty who came along with Sarah Lipsett who was sporting the latest Christian Dior bag.

The Waterfront is at the cutting edge of 21st Century metropolitan living and is an amazing waterside address located just minutes from the city centre and right at the heart of Dublin’s new urban hotspot. The new development comprises 54 apartments with phase one of 25 apartments now on the market.

The Waterfront apartments are premium quality and superbly designed one, two and three bedroom apartments boasting the most spacious balconies in Dublin – many with stunning waterside views. Architects Burke Kennedy Doyle designed the stylish, modern building which is based on the concept of stages - the stage of the theatre itself, the stage of the piazza and the stage of the theatre lobby above the piazza when it is illuminated at night.


Eddie Macken's son Jamie came along with his girlfriend Aoife, the two are planning a long holiday to Africa this summer and but were having second thoughts when they saw the stunning penthouse suite that was on show that evening! Advertising guru Anne Corcoran looked stunning in a Chica coat and was seen chatting to Anne Daly.

Matty Ryan came up from his home in Thurles co. Tipperary to support his good friend Chris Jones on the night and was seen chatting to another good friend, Charlie Murless. Other guests on the night included Audrey Ferris who looked stunning in a brown Gucci top, Ben Bringer, Sarah Owens and Count Ziggy Polinski, all enjoyed the beautiful canapés served by Domini Kemp and sipped on raspberry Bellini’s while enjoying the spectacular views of the Grand Canal basin from the stunning penthouse suite.

Bacardi Legacia

At Bacardi's Legacia party were: 1. Nayane Morais and Ingrid McNabb; 2. Susan Brennan, Karen Halpin and Sharon Howard; 3. Tiernan O'Morain and Enrique Comas; 4. Louise Kavanagh and Eimear Burton.

Last week Bacardi staged a very special event for a select number of people in a beautiful Georgian building. The venue, not normally used to house great parties was designed and decorated by Bacardi especially for the Legacia party, which added a legendary dash of vibrant Latin spirit to all who attended and created a mouth-watering cocktail of fluid beats, dancing feet and the best rum in town.

The event was to celebrate Bacardi’s legacy of serving the very best original cocktails over the last 146 years and to share in Bacardi’s passion and dedication and to experience the legacy of Bacardi’s founder, Don Facundo Bacardi Massó

Miss Universe Ireland contestant Louise Kavanagh enjoyed the selection of exclusive cocktails, whilst resident Dubliners Trevor White and Paul Trainer kept their eyes firmly on the mesmerising routine of the Samba Dancers. TV3’s Andrew Rudd arrived with a gang of hisbest Bacardi loving friends to soak up the Vibrant Latin Spirit in full form.

Key people from the Irish Music Scene (Sony BMG, Emi Music, Hot Press, State Magazine and POD concerts) were joined by Enrique Comas from the Bacardi Family who flew over especially for the Legacia celebration. Among the other VIP guests enjoying the party were Indie-electro DJ Arveen, Barry Meegan and Rachel Channing.

Guests were taken on a journey through the origins of cocktails that were then served to them as they were entertained by the legendary DJ’s, Disco Brazil and a pack of drummers and capoeira who danced throughout the building. The event was hosted in order to give all who attended an opportunity to share in Bacardi’s passion and dedication and experience the legacy of Don Facundo Bacardi Massó. Viva Bacardi!

KOH yes...

At the opening of KOH, the super stylish new restaurant on Millenium Way, were: 1. Rachel Montague and Sile Nolan; 2. Alex Farrell and Conor Connellan; 3. Irish ruggers Luke Fitzgerald and Gordon D'Arcy; 4. Diane Henderson and Norman Pratt.

KOH blimey!

At KOH were: 1. Emily O'Donnell and Sandra Byrne; 2. Anais Chandellier and Gaelle Lassabliere; 3. Liv Morgan and Lisa McGahy; 4. Elaine Bresnan and Alison McCarthy.

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Dublin’s newest Thai/Asian restaurant was launched to much anticipation at an exclusive party a few weeks ago. Familiar faces from the modeling and sporting worlds were there to enjoy what was one of the best attended events in the city, not only launching the restaurant but to kick start the summer in style.

Guests were gretted with bongo players, acrobats, with the smoking area transformed into a Buddha haven for one Night only (it was the place to be)! DJ Mo Kelly was on the decks as the lucky guests were treated to KOH Signature Cocktails, champagne, & Beer with tantalizing Thai bites all night…

Koh is truly a one stop destination, offering a stylish lounge area for cocktails & drinks, a chic and contemporary restaurant serving authentic Asian cuisine and for the diner that wants that little extra: a resident DJ and late bar, this together with three private dining rooms, and Wi-Fi throughout, Koh is set to cater for every need of the young professional.

This is the first Dublin restaurant for trio - Conor Sexton, Conor Kilkenny and Eoin Pardy who have pooled their years of experience to develop this very personal concept. With experience with the Diep Le Shaker group, these guys have realised their ambition to offer a friendly local venue which delivers fantastic quality Thai/Asian food at great value in chic surroundings.

Grainne Weber Architects who were responsible for the G Hotel & the re-design of The Morrison have created a truly distinctive venue. The graffiti wall and Mark Whelehan’s ceiling mounted light sculpture are worth the trip alone. Trust me, it's all very Sex and the City.

A host of Irelands sporting stars attended - from RTE’s Des Cahill, GAA commentator Michael Lester, The Irish Rugby team, and on a rare night out the Leinster Rugby boys with their wife’s in tow who will be there to support their team mate Bernard Jackman- who’s wife’s family are behind the venture.

Models Aoife Cogan, Karena Graham, Sara Kavanagh and Sarah McGovern the latter with her husband to be, Kenny. They are due to marry in a lavish soiree in July. Leigh Arnold and Marcus Sweeney, Pamela Flood, Brian Ormond and Pippa O’Connor and the lovely Sile Nolan ,who will shortly be launching Dublin’s newest hotspot - Residence on Stephens Green.

Fellow restaurateurs Derry and Sallyanne Clarke, Matt and Alex Farrell of the Diep Le Shaker Chain, Glenda Gilson and her Xposé Crew, Leanne de Cerbo, Brendan Scully and actor Liam Cunningham were also there.

CRC Ladies Lunch

Some of the glamourous ladies in attendance were: 1. Adele Coghlan and Terri Fitzpatrick; 2. Kyra Jones and Aisling Simmonds; 3. Noelle McCarthy and Margaret Nelson; 4. Terri and Lisa Fitzpatrick; 5. Eithne Fitzpatrick Scott-Lennon, Yvonne Keating and Miriam Aherne.

Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel was delighted to host the annual Ladies Spring Luncheon, in aid of the Central Remedial Clinic, last week. The magical setting of the 18th century castle in Killiney made it the perfect venue for this year’s event.

As one of the events in Dublin’s social calendar, the CRC Spring Luncheon is an ultra glamorous affair attended by almost 400 guests and attracts a variety of high profile socialites and corporate VIPs each year. Guests who attended this year’s event included Eithne Fitzpatrick Scott-Lennon, her sister in-laws, Fiona, Terry and Lisa Fitzpatrick, Yvonne Keating, Miriam Ahern, as well as fashion boutique owners, Fran Nolan and Jane Baker and a host of other well know and glamorous ladies.

Guests were greeted with a champagne reception upon arrival, followed by a sumptuous four-course lunch, provided by the awarding winning food and beverage team at Fitzpatrick’s Castle Hotel. Fran and Jane the chic chain of boutiques coordinated a fashion show, showcasing the latest line from Irish fashion brand Regine, along with a stunning array of bags, jewellery and shoes. This was followed by the latest collection from Gentlemen Please. The inimitable Lisa Fitzpatrick was MC for the show.

The CRC ladies lunch has one of the biggest charity raffles of the year with an array of exciting prizes. This year there was a trip to New York, including flights with Continental Airlines plus a stay at one of the Fitzpatrick hotels in Manhattan.

All proceeds from the Ladies Spring Luncheon go to the Central Remedial Clinic. The Central Remedial Clinic is a national centre that provides care and treatment, free of charge, for over 4,500 children and adults with physical disabilities.

Sports Ball

Having a sporting time at the ball were: 1. John Paul Davis and Nicola Hatton; 2. Catherine Coleman and Richard Woods; 3. Sandra Byrne; 4. Shaun Wright Phillips and Dionne Wright; 5. Lizanna Kirwan and Julieanne McElligot.

On Saturday, April 19th, many well known faces from Celtic, Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea Football Clubs descended upon Dublin’s Mansion House for the second annual Sport’s Ball in aid of the Education for the Children Foundation. This years event attracted a host of well known UK football players with funds going towards the development of educational facilities in some of the poorest areas in Central America.

Among the sporting stars in attendance were Tommy Johnson, Rob Jones, Michael Thomas, Shaun Wright Philips, Brian Kidd, Mark Wright, Regi Blinker, Alan Stubbs, Tony Warner, Neill Lennon and Jackie McNamara (me neither, but only because I'm not much of a sports fan). Irish International Rugby star Bernard Jackman, model Lizanna Kirwan, Elisabeth Fitzpatrick and Rachel Channing also attended.

MC’d by Paul Collins from Today FM, guests enjoyed a Heineken (what else!) reception before a sumptuous five course meal. Andrew Nolan and Hugh Bleahan took to the stage after formalities and auctioned off a range of one of sporting packages and raising much needed funds for the charity. After some serious dancing to Jungle Boogie, guests made their way to uber trendy Krystle to continue the party.

The Education for the Children Foundation was established in 2003, to tackle the cycle of poverty through education, relieving the poverty and sickness of children and their families by the provision of educational amenities, facilities and equipment as well as shelter and food. Funds from the Sports Ball this year are going towards the purchase of a new Escuela Projecto La Esperanza school in San Felipe, four miles outside Antigua in Guatemala. This new building will house a primary and middle school for 250 children ranging from six to eighteen years of age. A worthy cause indeed.

Irish Equine Centre 25th Anniversary

Pictured at the Irish Equine Centre's 25th Anniversary celebration lunch were: 1. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed al Maktoum receiving a lifetime achievement award on behalf of his family from President Mary McAleese; 2. Gillian & Niall Quinn; 3. Naomi Buchanan, Jennifer O'Connell and Joanne Blennerhassett; 4. Helen Barry and Ann Hensey.

The Irish Equine Centre celebrated 25 years of serving Ireland’s equine industry at a champagne reception at their facility in Johnstown, Co Kildare. Guest of Honour, President of Ireland Mary McAleese presented Lifetime Achievement Awards to seven leading men and women from the industry including Sean Collins MRCVS & Hanne Collins; Dr & Mrs Vincent O’Brien; His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed al Maktoum, Dr Walter Haefner and Lady Isolin Clague.

Jane Myerscough accepted the awards on behalf of Dr & Mrs O’Brien who are currently travelling in Australia. Jane was delighted to be there to celebrate all the work her parents had put into the centre. Similarly, Sean & Hanne Collins, who were the driving force of the centre for many of its 25 year history, were honoured to accept the award bestowed on them. Sean was the founder of the centre in 1983 and remains actively involved today as President of the Board.

H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed al Maktoum, son of Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum of Dubai accepted the award on behalf of the world famous horse breeding Maktoum family.
President McAleese congratulated those being honoured for their outstanding achievements and the Irish Equine Centre for their dedicated service to the bloodstock industry.

Guests at the exclusive event included footballing legend and local Kildare boy Niall Quinn and his glamorous wife Gillian who both have a keen interest in horse racing and breeding. Gillian is a noted horsewoman having won numerous awards as a dressage rider. Also in attendance were Sir Anthony & Lady O’Reilly and former Minister for Finance and EU Commissioner Dr. Ray MacSharry.

Former Secretary General of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food John Malone has been recently appointed as the new Chairman of the Irish Equine Centre Board of Governors. Commenting on the day John said: “Today’s event has been a major milestone for the Irish Equine Centre. We are delighted to be able to honour the extraordinary people that have played a central role in the Irish equine industry and to celebrate the past 25 years of the Irish Equine Centre, as without them, this vision would never have become a reality.”

A number of key sponsors are working alongside the centre throughout their 25th Anniversary. These include Horse Racing Ireland, the body set up to develop and promote Ireland as a world centre of excellence for horse racing and breeding; Randox Laboratories Ltd, one of the world’s fastest growing diagnostics companies; Celtic Diagnostics, a leading company for animal testing and diagnostics; and Betfair, the world’s leading betting exchange.

A number of events have been planned for the coming year to mark the 25th anniversary of the Irish Equine Centre. The centre is an independent equine laboratory that exists to protect the wellbeing of Ireland’s horse population and serve the interests of the industry.

Looking the Business

Also at 'Look the Business' by The Gloss, in association with Vodafone, were 1. Karen Koster; 2. Rosanna Davison; 3. Caroline Scott.

Look the Business

At 'Look the Business' were: 1. Izabela Chudzicka & Nicola McCombie; 2. Carolan Lennon of Vodafone & Jane McDonnell of The Gloss; 3. Jennifer Weiner of Brown Thomas; 4. Audrey Buckley & Fiona McKeon; 5. Carolina Sturlese; 6. Ruth O'Byrnes.

Over 500 of Ireland’s leading business women gathered at The Mansion House for another sell out event, created by The Gloss Magazine. ‘Look The Business’ which was hosted in association with Vodafone, was designed to provide a showcase for shorthand fashion and beauty trends for style-conscious, but time-poor working women.

‘Look The Business’ combined a lavish catwalk show (with fashion from Brown Thomas presented by personal shopping director, New Yorker, Jennifer Weiner) and champagne supper followed by the first ever beauty buffet, when guests got to sample products and receive expert advice from ten international Estée Lauder make-up artists led by The Gloss Magazine’s Creative Artist Christine Lucignano. Among the guests were Rosanna Davison and Katie Jane Goldin, Roisin Tierney - Crowe, Karen Koster, Marisa Mackle and Aoife O'Reilly.

Speaking at ‘Look The Business’, Publisher of The Gloss Magazine, Jane Mc Donnell said, “How you dress causes assumptions to be made about your skills, your ability, your affiliations, your ambitions. The reality is that in this fast-paced world, impressions still count.

"Lots of us are stuck in the dark suit world, the uniform women adopted back in the 70s, when women sought equal status in the workplace. But, women have proved themselves in business over the last 30 years and we don’t need a boring suit that erases all feminine characteristics to be our fallback position when we look in the wardrobe.

"We spend a lot of time in our work clothes; we need to love them a little more than we currently do. We should regard shopping for a work wardrobe as an enjoyable event rather than a chore, undertaken under pressure – pressure for time, pressure to know what to buy. Imagine feelings of pleasure, not dread when you scan your wardrobe in the morning ... After tonight, no more dread."

Ashbourne Town Centre

Fashionistas in Ashbourne included: 1. Ann Marie Breen and Brid Clarke; 2. Emily Kennedy and Carol Doyle; 3. Daragh Hayes and Pippa O'Connor; 4. Tara Connors and Karen Koster; 5. Janice Roche, Caroline Browne and Linda Malone.

Over 300 fashion lovers ascended on the Marriott Hotel Ashbourne for a sneak preview of all the latest spring/summer trends from The Ashbourne Town Centre recently. The night was a huge success raising much needed funds for Irish Autism Action and Keith Duffy, a patron of the charity also joined in the fun. Guests were treated to a Jolie champagne reception and canapés.

Guests on the night included Keith Duffy, Sarah Morrissey, Blathnaid McKenna, Pippa O’ Connor, Xpose’s Karen Koster and former ‘You’re a Star’ contestant Andrew Grafton. After the show guests enjoyed some original sounds from Andrew Grafton and Ciara Delaney also performed with her band ensuring that guests partied til the early hours!

FitFlops

At the FitFlops launch party were: 1. Actress and DJ Hilary Rose; 2. Grasieli Craig and Glenda Gilson; 3. Isobela Miranda and Julianna Tansini; 4. Hilary Rose and Giuliano Furquim; 5. Marcia Kilgore and Maura Derrane.

Bliss Spa-entrepreneur, Marcia Kilgore, flew into Dublin recently to officially launch her stylish and revolutionary shoe, the ‘FitFlop’ at The Loft, Powerscourt Town House Centre. FitFlops, the flip flops with the gym-built-in, have an efficient dual-use – a fashionable shoe accessory and a work- out while you walk – what more could a busy woman ask for! Fitness fans and fashionistas were out in force at the event to welcome Marcia and get their hands on the most-wanted shoe this year...

Leggy Brazilian models were on hand to serve guests an array of delicious canapés and Prosecco, fashionably shod in sequinned FitFlops and hotpants, showing off their enviable legs! Some lucky guests were treated to pedicures before putting on their FitFlops for the night.

Those in attendance included beauty experts Triona McCarthy and Maura Derrane, Xposé host Glenda Gilson and top stylist Cathy O’Connor. It-girl Emily O’Donnell and socialite Grasieli Simoes of Brazil Body Sports Wear were seen enjoying the funky beats on the night provided by actress and DJ, Hilary Rose.

Since they first landed on shelves in the UK last May, FitFlops have reached iconic fashion status, as the most ‘googled’ item of the year and the fastest selling new health and wellness shoe in history! FitFlops are available from leading stockists nationwide starting from €55. New colours and styles will be added throughout the summer, so ensure you keep your eyes peeled. For further information check out www.thefitflop.com.

Hackett Menswear

At the launch party for Hacketts were: 1. Jeremy Hackett; 2. Niall McCrudden and Jonny Wilkinson; 3. Paul Byrom; 4. Rachel Kavanagh and Emer Kelly; 5. Paul Harrington; 6. Laclan Sykes and Jonny Wilkinson.

International rugby superstar Jonny Wilkinson kicked off the VIP bash at the launch of the Hackett Menswear Store on South Anne Street. Jonny arrived at the party in true James Bond style in an Aston Martin provided by Charles Hurst Belfast accompanied by Jeremy Hackett, Chairman and founder of Hackett Menswear.

Hackett had a surprise in store for guests with the presence of polo pony Princess which drew crowds as well as the interest of top show jumper Cian O’Connor with Paddy Power on hand to organise bets.

The invite only event kicked off with a champagne reception followed by miniature steak canapés and Irish potato cakes with Clonakilty black pudding with the Hackett men in mind. Guests grooved to jazz duo Tandem and Eurovision winner Paul Harrington made a special guest appearance with a performance of his new single ‘What I’d Say’.

Business duo Simon and Christian Stokes, Astrid Brennan and Rachel Channing along with other guests sipped lychee martinis whilst admiring the wonderful Spring Summer collection from Hackett. Models Lachlan Sykes and Eric Jackman showcased the latest collection including nautical inspired pieces and key looks from the chic quintessential Mayfair Collection.

Other guests included Karen Koster, Grainne Seoige and stylist Cathy O’Connor, Pat Kiely, Sinead Desmond, Irish actresses Tara Leniston and Rachel Kavanagh. Guests were treated to a special performance by Utsav Lal, India’s youngest concert pianist of Raga piano music.

New limited edition Hackett designed Ireland rugby jerseys were a popular hit on the night with both Hackett and rugby enthusiasts.

Kasteel Crew

Also at the Kasteel Cru party were: 1. Emily Kennedy, Kate Bunworth and Kate Moran; 2. Joanne Devers, Alan Amsby and Alex Farrell; 3. DJ Dandelion phones home.

Kasteel Cru

Enjoying the Kasteel Cru launch party in the Ice Bar were: Pippa O'Connor and Glenda Gilson; 2. Barry Reamonn and Nikki Ryan; 3. Mark Arigho and Laura Woods.


The truly innovative French champagne of beers Kasteel Cru was launched a lavish French soiree in Dublin’s trendy Ice Bar recently. Familiar faces from the modeling and sporting worlds rendezvous’d to enjoy the premium lager to the sounds of DJ Dandelion as the Kasteel Cru flow all night. The always stylish television personality, Laura Woods MC’d the evening and one lucky partygoer walked away with a 5 star trip to Paris!.

Kasteel Cru is the perfect compliment with food and guests will be spoilt with a wonderful selection of oysters, lobster and French cheeses and the cascading roses will give an authentic French feel. This truly premium product is designed for those who enjoy the finer things in life and have the confidence to be different.

This superbly unique product is available in stylish bars and outlets across the country. It is already the drink of choice amongst the social set in the know. Once you have tasted the clean and elegant flavour of Kasteel Cru you will want to enjoy it time and time again.

Among those who attended were Glenda Gilson and her Xposé Crew, actor Liam Cunningham, Irish Rugby international and Leinster rugby’s Bernard Jackman and his wife Sinead. Nadine Wai-O’Flynn and her Dirty Epic sister Sarah. Socialites Tessa Cuniffe, Emily O’Donnell and Astrid Brennan. Krystle boys Conor Buckley and Brian O’Malley with their model girlfriends Sara Kavanagh & Nina De Vito.

Also enjoying the party were Tara O’Leary, Norman Pratt, Louise Osbourne, design duo Tyrell & Brennan perhaps looking for another muse after the runaway success of dressing Rosanna Davidson at the VIP Style Awards!

Armani Samsung

At the launch party in Harvey Nichols were: 1. Avila Lipsett and Dave Rhatigan; 2. Models; 3. Linda and Dee Breen; 4. Frances Winston and Alan Amsby get a master class in Armani.


Techno goes couture - Samsung has teamed up with one of the world’s leading fashion houses to design and produce the cutting edge Giorgio Armani - Samsung luxury mobile. The phone, which fuses Armani’s signature style with Samsung’s technology, is available to buy in stores nationwide from January and retails from €599.

This slim credit card sized phone meets the needs of discerning customers who aspire to own a handset combining cutting edge fashion with leading mobile technology. The Giorgio Armani - Samsung Mobile is a lifestyle choice - it has a futuristic haptic touch LCD screen set in a jet black glossy finish - this is a phone that leads the way in mobile fashion.

NYFDA

At the Nokia Young Fashion Designer Awards were: 1. Emily O'Donnell, Colm Farrell and Wayne Cronin; 2. Simone and Max Rocha; 3. Cha Cha Seigne; 4. Eileen Sheilds and Eilis Boyle; 5. Alan O'Hara with the winner Michelle Wilson and her model.

Nokia Young Fashion Designer Award

The country’s top fashionistas gathered recently for the glittering finale of the Nokia Young Fashion Designer Award 2008. The event took place in the suitably urban setting of Whitaker Court, Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin 2, where guests drank a specially created Coole Swan cocktail entitled Coole Prism.

The windows of this distinctively trendy setting were blacked out to allow guests to enjoy their drinks in the surroundings of neon tube lighting and stripped back urban surfaces while DJ Paul Webb provided a funky, electro soundtrack. Judge, Eileen Shields, lent her own fashion savvy to the venue with a specially created installation of her world famous footwear.

Guests were called to their seats by a virtual MC, Prisma, who took the form of a pair of sexy red lips on plasma screens around the venue.

The 21 finalists sat tentatively in the front row as their creations came down the catwalk one by one. This year, students used Nokia’s latest fashion handset, the sleek and mysterious Nokia Prism, as inspiration for their design. These distinctively urban handsets draw their inspiration from modern architecture, geometric shapes, sharp angled lines and neon light. After the finalists outfits had been shown, judges Eilis Boyle and Tim Ryan showed their stunning collections.

In a tense finale, the international judging panel including dress designer Eilis Boyle, knitwear designer, Tim Ryan, leading Irish tailor, Louis Copeland, New York shoe designer, Eileen Sheilds and Clothes Show presenter, Brendan Courtney, went backstage to decide on the winner.

The runner’s up were: Simone Rocha, National College of Art and Design and Louise Devereaux, Limerick School of Art and Design who both won €1,000 and crowned the overall winner was Michelle Wilson from Limerick School of Art and Design who won €5,000, a Nokia Prism handset and media profiling for the year.

Guests in attendance included Ireland AM presenter Sinead Desmond, designers John Rocha and Helen James, Caroline Morahan, Anne Doyle, Xpose’s Aisling O’Loughlin, stylist Cathy O’Connor and Derrick Carberry from Brown Sugar.

Saying yes to carrots ...

Among those saying Yes To Carrots were: 1. Cathy O'Connor; 2. Susan O'Herlihy and Jessie Collins; 3. Deirdre Reynolds; 4. Fiona Gratzer; 5. Helen O'Reilly and Sara Colohan.

Say Yes to Carrots!

Yes To Carrots, the revolutionary new skin and hair care brand, celebrated its official Irish launch at Harvey Nichols Restaurant, Dundrum Town centre last week. Yes to Carrots founder, Ido Leffler was in Ireland to present his popular beauty range to a host of specially invited guests, including celebrity stylists, Cathy O’Connor and Sara Colohan and Gerry Bohan, representing Fields Jewellers. As carrots come from fields, Fields, the largest Irish jewellers, kindly donated a diamond encrusted necklace, which was won by Sunday World journalist, Fiona Gratzer at the event. Yes To Carrots first appeared on Irish beauty shelves in January, and since then, has been taking the Irish beauty world by storm.

Yes To Carrots is a new concept in skin and hair care combining the anti-oxidant and anti-ageing power of Beta-Carotene from organic fruit and vegetables, such as, carrots, pumpkins and oranges, with the cleansing, purifying and moisturising properties of 26 minerals, harvested from the Dead Sea. The Yes To Carrots range is designed to replenish the hair and skin, while the paraben free formula assists the skin’s natural process of rejuvenation, leaving your skin smiling.

The Dead Sea, the world’s most ancient and renowned natural spa, contains 26 minerals and trace elements that are known to improve cell metabolism and stabilise the moisture content of the skin. The molecular structure of the minerals allows them to penetrate the skin and nourish the cells.

Ido Leffler, founder of Yes To Carrots, says, “We are delighted with the Irish response to Yes to Carrots, which we believe is much more than a brand, it’s a lifestyle choice. The colour, the name, the combination of organic fruits and vegetables and Dead Sea Mud has proven to be a winning formula with consumers worldwide. When you say yes to Yes To Carrots™, you make a conscious decision to smile more often and improve your lifestyle.”

Essential

Some of the exotic social butterflies at the Herbal Essences party included: 1. Vanessa Byrne and Daragh Hayes; 2. Sinead Farrell and Anne Marie Curneen; 3. Julie Devine and Michelle McGrath; 4. Julian Benson and Samina Zia.

Exotic Evening

Herbal Essences announced their exciting plans and upcoming launches for the summer in AKA, Wicklow Street last week. The trendy bar was completely transformed into a botanical paradise by Dublin’s leading flower stylists Appassionata. Invited guests entered through an ivy and fuschia gloriosa ‘curtain’ and travelled down a candle lit staircase to be greeted by the soothing sounds of DJ Anya Stafford and the tantalizing aromas from the pampering zones.


Guests were treated to a night of indulgent bliss with specially designated zones. Beauty therapist Gillian Fox was on hand to give Indian head and shoulder massages in the aromatherapy corner. Hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons gave tips on speedy up-styles and summer hair trends in the Hair Analysis zone, while Angela Gallagher applied this season’s must have accessory – Lash Extensions – and Make-up Artists and Nail Technician’s were on hand to treat guests to mini makeovers.


Guests included Brendan Scully, Sarah McGovern, Ali McDonnell, Julian Benson and Ronan McCormack, Sean Montague, Tara Leniston and Derrick Carberry.


Sexy ‘gardeners’ Samina Zia and Darragh Hayes distributed bespoke cocktails, including Herbal Heaven Mojitos and Botanical Breeze Martini’s, inspired by variants in the Botanicals range. Exotic canapés and a decadent chocolate fondue fountain with fruity dips completed the night in paradise.

Stout Fest

The Porterhouse recently launched its annual Stout Festival which will run from March 7th - 24th. At the Porterhouse in Temple Bar were: 1. Peter and Claire Murphy; 2. Alan Amsby and Richard Kavanagh; 3. Grainne Moyhihan and Siobhan Gavigan; 4. Fiona Roche and Rachel Quinn; 5. Ger Tolan and Peter Mosley.

Crest of a Wave

Pictured at the launch of the Quicksilver store in Stephen's Green SC were: 1. Samina Zia and Cathal O'Connor; 2. Vogue Williams and Ali O'Donnell; 3. Sarah McGovern and Michelle McGrath; 4. Sarah Kavanagh and Pippa O'Connor.

Quicksilver party

Quiksilver celebrated the opening of their flagship store in the Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre recently and the invited guests were treated to a Hawaiian themed evening in the ground floor boardwalk store

A flock of champion surfers joined the fun on the night. Gabe Davies, who surfed a 50ft wave at Mullaghmore in Bundoran late last year, was a special guest on the evening. He is the star of the Irish film ‘Wave Riders’, which recently won the Jameson Dublin International Film Festival audience award. Sixteen year old Irish surfer Amy May Garvey also joined in the party. Amy is the youngest girl ever to win the Under18 National Titles at the tender age of eleven.

Smooth Surfers modelled the Spring/Summer collections from Quiksilver and Roxy. Combining style with durability and vibrant colours, the sporty models showed the full potential of the famous lifestyle brand. Mel Puu, a 7ft tall Hawaiian surfer and musician, played the ukulele and DJ Aoife Caulfield spinned chilled dance tunes, while magician Brendan Byrne performed some great tricks on the evening. Quiksilver and Roxy boarders were shown in action on plasma screens in store as the crowd enjoyed the Malibu cocktails.

Gordan D’Arcy hung up his Rugby boots for the evening to hang out with a host of well known social surfers including Rachel Wyse, Pippa O’Connor, Karena Graham, Sara Kavanagh, Samina Zia, TV presenter Laura Woods, actress Tara Leniston, Vogue Williams and Ali MacDonnell.

HOF Studio 54

At the House of fraser Studio 54 event were: 1. Chara Nagle and Sinead Desmond; 2. Emily O'Donnell and Keva Doyle; 3. Jean Ann Taylor and Lisa Moran.

HOF Studio 54

Pictured at the House of Fraser Studio 54 party were: 1. Emma Nugent; 2. Caroline Duffy and Cliodhna Crowley; 3. Deirdre Morrisey.

HoF SS08

House of Fraser launched its Spring/Summer 2008 collections and celebrated its third Birthday in Ireland with a glamorous party in Temple bar. The Button Factory was transformed for the night into an homage to the legendary nightclub “Studio 54”. From oversized glitter disco balls outside on the street, to the black carpet, Roller-skate dancers and the now infamous red robes that barred entry to anyone not deemed stylish enough by the strict studio 54 door policy.

Guests were treated on the evening to delicious gourmet bites and Xrated fusion liqueur cocktails and Coors light Beer. The button factory was transformed with disco balls and white fur seating, giving the venue a true Studio 54 feel. Entertainment and surprises were the order of the evening with roller-skate dancers and an aerial acrobat kicking off the Fashion show which pounded with a vibrant and edgy take on this seasons trends.

Studio 54 and the unique style of Bianca Jagger one of the most glamorous icons of the 70’s, strongly influenced House of Fraser’s spring/summer 2008 collections modern take for this summer on the decadent lifestyle. With scenes form the fashion show following the elite from Paris (Parisian chic) to St Tropez and Marrakesh. The essence of these locations was translated into House of Fraser’s Spring/summer 2008 fashion show. The finale of the show was all about Linea and light as air evening dresses inspired by the infamous nightclub ‘Studio 54’. Joyce looked statuesque wearing a beautiful white grosgrain satin Bianca Jagger inspired suit. Rosanna Davidson wore a show stopping Fuchsia Grecian style gown by Linea.

On the evening it felt like Dublin’s fashion and social elite had come home to their very own “Studio 54” in Temple bar. Guests included the glitterati from TV and film including Bill Hughes, Mary Kennedy and the TV3 lovelies Aisling O’Loughlin and Sinead Desmond. There was no shortage of gorgeous glamorous ladies such as Roz and Avila Lipsett, Zoe Clarke, Rosanna Davidson and Glenda Gilson who all added high octane glamour to the evening. Alan Hughes, Irish Rugby’s Peter Stringer and Gary Kavanagh from Peter Mark were also spotted mingling in the crowds.

Hennessy Gold Cup

Style and elegance at the Hennessy Gold Cup race day at Leopardstown: 1. Aisling Kilduff and Caroline Sleiman; 2. Caroline Morahan; 3. Aoife O'Reilly and Sinead Ni Chonaill.

Hennessy Gold Cup

Some of the style and elegance at the recent Hennessy Gold Cup race day at Leopardstown: 1.Katherine Hewitt and Tamara Gibb; 2. Tamso Doyle and Jasmine Guinness; 3. Best Dressed winner Mary Cotter.

Biting the Big Apple

Enjoying the New York, New York party were: 1. Aisling O'Loughlin and John Fitzpatrick; 2. Michael O'Doherty and Eithne Fitzpatrick; 3. Ryan Tubridy and John Fitzpatrick; 4. Nadine Wai - O'Flynn, Sandra Byrne and Roisin Tierney - Crowe; 5. Yvonne Muldoon and Rosanna Davison.

New York, New York

Fitzpatrick Hotels, New York joined up with Continental Airlines, to host an exclusive New York, New York evening last week in the glamorous surroundings of the Champagne Bar, Ron Blacks. John Fitzpatrick, CEO of Fitzpatrick Hotels in the US welcomed and mingled with friends and colleagues discussing the many undiscovered delights that only New York has to offer. A stylish evening of all things New York, guests were treated to a celebration of the superb value this unique city offers its many glamorous visitors as they sipped champagne, Cosmo’s and Manhattan’s.

This exclusive event proved to be simply a must attend among Dublin’s celebrity circuit. Social butterflies Grainne Seoige, and Lucy Kennedy looked radiant as they popped in for a quick Manhattan before moving across the road to attend a ball in the Mansion House. Broadcaster George Hook just back from a week long stay at Fitzpatricks Manhattan Hotel entertained guests as only he can with his unique comic wit.

Other regular Fitzpatrick guests such as Rosanna Davison, Wesley Quirke, Glenda Gilson enjoyed catching up with John as they planned their next trip state side. Other stylish guests included TV3’s Collette Fitzpatrick, RTE star Ryan Tubridy and socialites, Avila Lipsett and Susan Pratt.

John later shared with friends that the €7m refurbishment of the Fitzpatrick Manhattan Hotel is nearing completion, resulting in a superb new design for the restaurant and bar, and a stylish new look for both the lobby as well as the façade of the hotel. A state-of-the-art boardroom has already been added to the hotel. Renovation of the hotel’s 91 bedrooms is also complete, ensuring that guests will enjoy a greater degree of luxury during their stay.

The evening concluded with one stylish guest winning a once in a lifetime trip to New York where they will be free to experience all the Big Apple has to offer.

Fiat 500

Pictured at the Fiat 500 launch were: 1. Rachel Wyse and Ruth Griffin; 2. Roberta Rawat and Samnia Zia; 3. Glenda Gilson and Keith Barry; 4. Leigh Arnold, Tara Leniston, Amy Huberman and Adrian Walsh.

The highly anticipated Fiat 500 was launched recently in Ely CHQ at a glizty launch covered by TV3's Xpose. Celebrity magician Keith Barry was on hand to do the reveal Of the car in a dramatic blindfold drive into the audience which included top Irish actresses Amy Huberman, Leigh Arnoldand Tara Leniston.

Also there were Norman Pratt, Mo Kelly, models Glenda Gilson, Roberta Rawat, Ruth Griffin, Trevor Musgrave, Damian Gilson, Izabella Chudzika, BMW's Lisa Nicole Campbell and TSB Chief Chris Hanlon. Fiat Ireland's Adrain Walsh was on hand to greet the guests and welcomed special guest Dr. Marco Lombardi, who was representing the Italian Embassy.

Of course the star of the show was the cute little Fiat 500, one of which was auctioned on the night for Temple Street Children's Hospital.

Jacob's Creek party

At the Ice Bar for the Jacob's Creek party were: 1. Hosts Wesley Quirke and Rosanna Davison; 2. Sarah McGovern and Ruth Griffin; 3. Alan Amsby and Anne Boylan; 4. Sarah Williams and ali O'Riordan.

Jacob's Creek new arrivals

Ireland’s former Miss World and top model Rosanna Davidson hosted a great party as Ireland welcomed Jacobs Creek’s new arrival – Jacobs Creek Snipes - at The Ice Bar, in the elegant Four Seasons Hotel, Dublin. Rosanna was joined by her boyfriend Wesley Quirke and a host of celebrity pals as she raised a toast to the sparkling Jacobs Creek Snipes (which, incidentally, are perfect for Valentines Day!).


The party was the most talked about in town that evening as guests were given the five star treatment from the moment they walked up the bright pink carpet and were greeted with chilled snipes upon arrival. DJ Papillion entertained guests to add to the sparkle of the evening. Among those who attended on the night included Claudine Palmer who is back from London to plan her summer wedding. Another gal planning a wedding soon is Tara O'Connor, who was on hand to greet the many attendees and who, as always, looked stunning in a silver sparkly number.



Also in the party mood were models Sarah Mc Govern and Ruth Griffin, Robbie Fox, Denis Desmond, Alan Ambsy, Cindy Cafolla, TV3’s Lisa Cannon and Audrey McCabe, John McKibbin and Jonothan Sultan, stylist Cathy O'Connor, Jenni Maughan, Nadine Wai - O'Flynn and Sarah Kavanagh.


The new Jacob's Creek Snipes are a welcome edition to the social scene and retail at €14.99 for a three pack cluster - bargain!

Fabulous!

In the Morisson for the NOTW Fabulous launch party: 1. Baibe Gaile and Ruth Griffin; 2. Ruth O'Neill and Beatrice Larkin; 3. Strike a pose!; 4. Jenny and Suzanne Coyne.

Top model and stylist Andrea Roche hosted the hippest party in town last week as the Irish News of the World’s fantastic new Fabulous magazine burst on to the scene at The Morrison Hotel in Dublin.


Being fabulous on the night were models Pippa O’Connor, Miss Ireland Blathnaid Mc Kenna, former Miss Ireland Sarah Morrissey, Sarah Mc Govern, Ruth Griffin and Jenny Lee Masterson. Other guests included Cindy and Ivano Caffola, Norman Pratt, DJ Avila Lispett, Your a Star finalist Fauve Chapman, Karen Koster and Elaine Crowley.


Fabulous is a sizzling, 76-page glossy mag packed with all the latest beauty tips, celebrity secrets, fashion news, big name interviews and Jamie Oliver’s calorie-conscious recipes. Plus, there are easy-to-stick-to diets to help shed weight and look great. Ireland’s favourite fashionista, Caroline Morahan, will deliver her top style tips and the best High Street buys.


“I’m really excited to be part of the Fabulous team,” said Caroline. “This magazine will be an invaluable read for the fashion-conscious women of Ireland, and will fast become the only mag to be seen with.”

S&P Top 100 Sexy Men

At the announcement party for Social & Personal's Top 100 Sexy men list were: 1.Valerie Phelan and Ally McDonnell; 2. Sive Kaneswaren and Tanya Curran; 3. Marie Clare Nolan and Hayley Rock; 4. Simon O'riordan, Steve Corcoran, Rosanna Davison and Ivano Cafolla; 5. Martin Lothman.

Top 100 Sexy Men

Social & Personal publisher PJ Gibbons announced TV presenter Dermot O’Leary as the number 1 in the magazine’s Top 100 Sexy Men recently. The list was formally announced at a buzzing Champagne Jacquart reception in Eddie Irvine’s Cocoon bar recently.


O’Leary, who is 34, is the current host of TV’s Big Brother: Celebrity Hijack and ITV’s The X Factor. He has made it clear on numerous occasions in the past that he does not regard himself as British, but as Irish. On claiming the coveted Number 1 spot on the annual poll, which appears in the February issue of Social & Personal, O’Leary admitted to being “overjoyed” by the announcement: “It’s a very nice title, I’m “wowed” by this,” he said.


Restructured this year to include the names of non-citizens who are second or third generation Irish, the list features the names of numerous international hunks, such as Grey’s Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey, actor Aidan Quinn and supermodel Christy Turlington’s husband Ed Burns.
The usual suspects like Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Colin Farrell and Pierce Brosnan appear once again this year. From the business world, Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary makes his first appearance at Number 20, while billionaire businessman Dermot Desmond follows on at Number 21. Just one politician made it onto this year’s list – and it’s not Bertie! Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin TD, takes the honour of being the Sexiest Irish Politician at Number 95.


Among those enjoying the party were Virginia Macari and her new beau, who flew in from Marbella where they now reside. Anna Lavery of Paramount, who is preparing for a very busy year of top classes movie releases, Carol Hayes, Astrid Brennan, Luca Hickey, Joanne Byrne, Mark Underwood and Haley Rock.


The Top Ten Sexiest Men of 2008:


Dermot O’Leary (TV presenter)
Andrew Trimble (Rugby player)
Colin Farrell (Actor)
Jonathan Rhys Meyers (Actor)
Patrick Dempsey (American actor)
Calum Best (Playboy)
Aidan Quinn (American actor)
Sean Óg O hAilpín (Hurling player)
Kian Egan (Westlife singer)
Kevin Doyle (Footballer)

Curvette of the Year

At the Curvette of the Year Awards were: 1. Winner and Curvette of the Year Jean Kinsella with Michael Foley of Curves; 2. The finalists Gen O'Meara, Aileen Mulvey, Therese Dunphy; Rosaria O'Donovan, Francis O'Sullivan and winner Jean Kinsells; 3. Judges Gail Kaneswaren and Triona McCarthy; 4. Anna and Michael Foley with Emma Kelly; 5. Fiona McHugh and Letitia O'Connor.

Invited guests gathered at the Dylan Hotel for a very special luncheon recently to see the crowing of the inaugural Curves ‘Curvette of the Year’.

Michael Foley, European Marketing Director for Curves, presented the winner, Jean Kinsella, from Bray, Co Wicklow with a ten years’ free membership to Curves. Jean was one of six worthy finalists selected from across the country, who have lost a cumulative 19 stone since joining Curves. All finalists were given the VIP treatment with an overnight stay in Dublin and professional hair and make-up styling before attending the gala event at the Dylan hotel.

36 year old Jean shrunk from a size 22 to a size 10 since joining Curves in May 2006. She decided to join Curves after years of unhappiness over her appearance and concerns about her health. Speaking about her Curves journey, Jean said, ‘I try to engage myself in some form of physical activity at least five times a week, as well as my regular Curves workout. I have replaced coffee with water and try to always go for the healthy option. The results have been amazing! I have lots more confidence, feel younger, have much more energy and generally feel great. I can now wear nice clothes and can do more things with my kids. I have also met some brilliant people through Curves.’

Curves was delighted with the overwhelming response and enthusiasm for the first year of this competition. Curves is the largest gym franchise in the world with over 4 million members worldwide and is also the largest gym franchise in Ireland. The judging panel charged with the task of selecting the winner and runners-up included model, Gail Kaneswaran and beauty columnist, Triona McCarthy. The winners were selected based not only on inches lost but also the overall positive changes in their lives since becoming members of Curves.

Lipsy SS 08

Modelling at the Lipsy SS 08 party were: 1. Baibe Gaile, Aoife Cogan and Sarah Morrissey; 2. Rosanna Davison; 3. Baibe Gaile and Rosanna Davison.

Lipsy SS 08

Lipsy launched its Spring/Summer 08 collection on Monday evening January 21st in Dublin’s venue-du-jour, the Sky Suite of the Radisson SAS Royal Hotel. This sexy, glamorous London based label has long been the red carpet secret of celebrities in the know and now you girls will be delighted to hear it’s finally available in Ireland.


Models Baiba Gaile and former Miss Irelands Aoife Cogan and Sarah Morrissey showed off the latest Lipsy style and looked stunning with the help of make-up artist Danielle Murphy. Guests enjoyed Asian fusion canapés and washed them down with chilled custom blended Smirnoff vodka ‘Hot Lips’ cocktails, which were especially designed for the party using a blend of Smirnoff Vodka, Cranberry and fruits juices.


The theme of the night was pink and black, in keeping with Lipsy’s colour scheme, so the room was festooned with giant black vases piled high with stunning balls made of pink roses by Eamon Grant of Flowers Made Easy. Later guests were treated to pink iced cup cakes and jelly lip sweets to finish off the evening.


Among those I spotted were models Lizanna Kirwin, Corina Grant (who has just given birth to her first child), Sarah McGovern, Brian Fallon, Pippa O’Connor and Nigel Linden to name but a few. Stylist Lisa Fitzpatrick looked great as always, as did Miss Ireland Blathnaid McKenna.


Acclaimed photographer Kip Carroll was there and telling me of how pleased he was with the success of his last exhibition. More of those please Kip. Others included artist Jim Fitzpatrick, Afternoon Show presenter Dearbhla Lennon, Emma Ledden, Cindy Caffola, Trish and Julien Fallon, Mary-Kate Ryan and Body Tonic DJ John Mahon.


With everyone, yes everyone, getting to pick out something of their choice it was a most enjoyable affair. Much more than lip service from Lipsy.

Chicago Spire Launch

At the lavish launch party for the Chicago Spire were: 1. Natasha Richardson and Rosanna Davison; 2. Susan Pratt and Astrid Brennan; 3. Louise Osbourne and Leigh Arnold.

At the Chicago Spire launch in Fitzwilliam Square were: 1. Garrett Kelleher, Liam Neeson and Santiago Calatrave; 2. Triona McCarthy and Avila Lipsett; 2. Stephen Rea and Natasha Richardson.

Chicago Spire comes to Dublin

Property Developer, Garrett Kelleher, Shelbourne Development Ltd, together with one of Hollywood’s most glamorous celebrity couples, Liam Neeson and his wife, actress Natasha Richardson hosted a lavish evening event to mark the global launch of The Chicago Spire. This unique event took place in the stunning private surroundings of Fitzwilliam Square where a once off glass marquee was constructed. Guests in attendance such as Irish actor Stephen Rea, fashion designer Louise Kennedy and singer Chris De Burgh, had a rare opportunity to meet the world renowned architect behind the development, Santiago Calatrava.

Other stylish guests included movie director Neil Jordan, fashion designer Peter O’ Brien, former Miss World Rosanna Davison, TV3’s Collette Fitzpatrick, actress Leigh Arnold, Ozzy Osbourne’s daughter in law Louise Osbourne, publisher Michael O’Doherty and socialites Avila Lipsett and Susan Pratt.

On arrival guests mingled while sipping champagne and enjoying the delights of a delectable menu created by the Executive Chef at the luxurious Four Season Hotel. A number of specially commissioned movies detailing the development were exclusively unveiled on the night. The soundtrack to each movie is an original piece composed by Chance Thomas and is called InSpire. Chance Thomas has composed and produced original music for smash hit movies such as Lord of the Rings, X-Men and King Kong. The live entertainment on the evening had a strong Chicago theme combining swing, jazz and blues performed by critically acclaimed Irish violinist Zoe Conway and International jazz/blues star Joolz Gianna.

The Chicago Spire, a 2,000 foot elegantly twisting tower with 150 floors containing 1,200 unique and modern residences with the finest amenities available anywhere in the world. It will be the tallest building in the USA or Europe and the tallest exclusively residential building in the world.
When complete in 2011, The Chicago Spire will be home to 1,194 individual residences and a range of amenities that will rival any in the world. No two residences are alike at The Chicago Spire, with each suite, gallery, one-four bedroom home and penthouse offering a unique floor plan and outstanding city and lakefront views. The three-floor 52,000-square foot amenity space will include temperature-controlled wine lockers and humidors, private retail facilities, children's playroom, business centre and library, among many others.

Lillies Festive Fun

Generous to a fault Oliver Hughes and Liam Lahart entertained the staff of their three Porterhouse Bars and the club Lillies Bordello in, er, Lillies Bordello! The guys threw a massive Christmas party for the hard working troupe but what I want to know is who was working on the night...?!

Enjoying the party were: 1. ildi Sistu; 2. John Carroll and Maria Kelly; 3. Sherine King and Niamh Wade; 4. Gavin Keating and Shannon Perpire; 5. Aidan O'Brien and Corey Telleman; 5. The Hosts, Liam Lahart and Oliver Hughes.

Shiseido SS 08

At the Shiseido Spring Summer 08 launch party were: 1. Julian benson and Sonia Harris; 2. Chloe Arnold, Yomiko Chen and Jude Dabney; 3. Tara Leniston and Tara O'Leary;4. Avila Lipsett and Emily O'Donnell.

What was probably the first big bash of 2008 was well attended by the social cognoscenti, eager to catch up on all the news from the New Year (not so new anymore I guess). International beauty brand Shiseido hosted a swish soiree to launch its Spring Summer make-up and skincare range. Now that’s what I like, talk of Spring and Summer.

The new Radisson SAS hotel off Georges Street is the newest kid on the block and the people at Shiseido had commandeered the beautiful penthouse Sky Suite. Seven floors up and with amazing views of the city it really is the place to be lately. Indeed I spotted a few well-known faces while dining in the restaurant later that evening.

Among the guests were Chloe Arnold, Triona McCarthy, Julian Benson (dazzling in Cavali), Leanne de Cerbo, Avila Lipsett and Emily O’Donnell, actress Tara Leniston, Maura Derrane and her sister Roisin, all of whom left with an arm full of Shiseido goodies. Perfect for the detox month that is January.

Getting ready for the gee gees...

Enjoying the Fitzpatrick Pierse pre-race gala dinner were: 1. James Scott-Lennon and Eithne Fitzpatrick; 2. Dervla McArdle and Emma Kelly; 3. Dave Coughlan and Penny Evans; 4. Eithne Fitzpatrick, Ged Pierse and Minister Mary Hanfin TD; 5. Lisa Clerkin, Gwen Molloy and Lisa Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick - Pierse Gala

The Fitzpatrick family and Pierse Group jointly hosted their annual pre-race gala dinner on Saturday night at the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, Co. Dublin. Guests were treated to a sumptuous five course meal followed by a performance by The Three Tenors.

RTE’s Colm Murray was the Compere for the evening and introduced speakers including Eithne Fitzpatrick, proprietress of the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, who welcomed guests to the 19th annual pre-race gala dinner. Post dinner tips were provided by top trainers, Noel Meade and Arthur Moore and one of Ireland’s leading jockeys, Davy Russell.

As usual this year’s dinner guests came from the world of racing, politics and business including; Minster for Education and Science, Mary Hanafin, Commissioner Charlie McCreevy and his wife Noleen, retired Leopardstown Racecourse Manager Tom Burke, horse trainer, Jessica Harrington, jockey, Charlie Swan and Brian Kavanagh of Horse Racing Ireland.

Dinner guests reassembled in the Fitzpatrick Suite on Sunday at the Leopardstown racecourse where the Fitzpatrick family sponsored the third race of the day, the €60,000 Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Novice Steeplechase, which saw Ruby Walsh came home with his third win of the day on Glencove Marina.

Glad to be Trad

At the launch party for the Temple Bar Trad Festival in the Oliver St. John Gogarty were: 1. Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh and Martin Harte; 2. Peter Smith; 3. Niamh Ni Charra; 4. Paul Fitzpatrick and Tom Cleary; 5. Leo Enright and Eileen Betson.

Diddly Eye

At Oliver St John Gogartys, Anglesea Street, Temple Bar the programme for the 2008 Temple Bar Trad, Irish Music & Culture Festival was announced recently. The Festival kicks off on Wednesday 23 January and runs until Sunday 27th.



This five day festival is Dublin’s premier celebration of traditional Irish music and culture and will include live concerts, pub sessions, children’s events, a festival club, street performances and workshops; all in the heart of Dublin city. The festival will see many of Ireland’s top traditional musicians and singers performing in Dublin’s Cultural Quarter. During the five days and five nights of the Trad Festival, many of the bars and pubs in Temple Bar will come alive with regular trad and folk music sessions.



Over 200 musicians from around the country will play in these sessions over the weekend and admission to these is FREE. Highlights of the programme include concerts from acclaimed bands At First Light, Gráda, Clan Ranald and the recently formed Mozaik, featuring Dónal Lunny and Andy Irvine, as well as performances by some outstanding traditional singers from the Irish and Scots Gaelic tradition; Róisín Elsafty, Susan McKeown, Sinéad Cahir and Julie Fowlis. Not to be forgotten are some of Ireland’s most accomplished instrumentalists; Tommy and Siobhán Peoples, Jackie Daly, Niamh Ní Charra, John Wynne & John McEvoy and Breda & Claire Keville.Performing in Temple Bar’s premier venues; Project Arts Centre, The Button Factory and the Olympia Theatre, the festival opens on Wednesday 23 January in Project with a concert featuring Breda & Claire Keville and At First Light.



The festival continues until Sunday 27 January with a gala concert in the Olympia Theatre. The impressive line-up for this concert features Róisín Elsafty, Tommy and Siobhán Peoples, Jackie Daly and Mozaik, and the concert will be filmed for broadcast on TG4. This year’s Temple Bar Trad has grown to include outdoor and street events and workshops, while the family programme at The Ark, A Cultural Centre for Children is augmented to include a Children’s Concert, Storytelling with acclaimed performer Nuala Hayes as well as come & try workshops for all budding musicians with an ear for a jig or a hornpipe. Featuring the cream of Irish musical talent, with concerts, pub sessions, family events, free street entertainment and a festival club in Project Arts Centre, this dynamic festival is sure to warm the hearths and hearts of Temple Bar this January.



The festival is organised as a non-profit venture by Temple Bar traders group, TASCQ [Traders in the Area Supporting the Cultural Quarter] and is support funded by Diageo under the Bushmills brand, Dublin Tourism and Dublin City Council. Other sponsors and supporters include Temple Bar Cultural Trust, The Clarence Hotel, Blooms Hotel, The Ark, A Cultural Centre for Children, Irish Music Magazine, The Purty Kitchen, The Morgan Hotel and Waltons New School of Music.



http://www.templebartrad.com/

Cheerios Panto

Stars of the Cheerios Panto, Snow White, are Alan Hughes, Linda Martin and Joe Conlon. It runs in Liberty Hall until the 27th of January.

Oh yes it is ...

The must see panto this season is definitely Snow White in Dublin’s Liberty Hall theatre. Headed by Linda Martin and Alan Hughes, it also boasts Michelle McGrath and the hilarious Joe Conlon in the line-up. Always a favourite with Ireland’s celebs, the Cheerios Panto has been seen by a host of well known names to date including Brian Kennedy, Joe Duffy, Andrea Roche and Gerry Ryan and has now been extended until the 27^th of January.

Adele King (aka Twink) also took time out to catch the show this week with her daughters, Chloe and Naomi. Ever the busy bee, Adele has enjoyed a hugely successful year and hopes to be jetting off to Dubai soon for a well earned break.

Indeed Adele’s own hit show, Menopause the Musical, at the Tivoli Theatre has been a massive success, but if you haven’t seen it yet then fear not as I hear a nationwide tour is currently in the pipeline.

HNY!

Having a ball at the New Year party in Lillies Bordello were: 1. Harriet Stapleton and Laura Caley; 2. Aoife Judge and Gail Kaneswaren; 3. Leanne and Emma Wishton; 4. Dolores Cullen and Rosaleen Proudfoot; 5. Vivienne McGuinness and Debbie Gleeson.

Happy New Year!

New Years Eve was the night to be out with a variety of wonderful parties on offer. The main hot spots around the country pulled out all the stops to ring in 2008 with white themed parties proving popular.

Legendary celebrity haunt Lilies Bordello hosted a champagne fuelled bash with the Perrier Jouet flowing all night long – they even had a huge “Christmas tree” made up of over 100 magnums of the stuff at a cost of a cool €10,000! Club owner David Morrissey welcomed guests including TV presenter Michelle Doherty, model Gail Kaneswaren and Marcus Sweeney.

The uber-hip night club Krystle also threw a white themed party with guests including Gordon D’Arcy, TV presenter Brian Ormonde, models Pippa O’Connor (sporting her Barbados tan) and Claudine Palmer, who is busy with preparations for her wedding to Irish international soccer star Robbie Keane in July.

Meanwhile, around the country there were black tie galas hosted in various top hotels including Hayfield Manor in Cork and Renvyle House in Galway, while the Slieve Russell Hotel in Cavan threw its biggest bash ever with a magnificent fireworks display that could be seen for miles.

Happy New Year!