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Style

28th Jun 2014

Swot Up On Style – A-Z Of All Things Fashion

It's all about O!

Cathy Donohue

You could study style for years, and still have scope to learn more.

It’s an interesting topic that doesn’t always get the love it deserves, with some dismissing it as frivolous.

We wear clothes everyday (although a duvet day now and then is compulsory), and wearing something you love can often change your mood.

In homage to the dynasty that is style, this A-Z guide will bring you a little insider information on one of our favourite subjects, this week concentrating on all things O.

Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta was destined to make waves in the fashion industry, having been trained by both Cristóbal Balenciaga and Antonio del Castillo. Oscar was recognised as a major player on the style scene when he became Jacqueline Kennedy’s designer of choice. Having worked for fashion houses Lanvin and Balmain in addition to launching his own line, de la Renta’s CV makes for an impressive read. A favourite among film stars and royalty alike, this is one designer who appeals to women across the board. Who can forget SATC’s Carrie’s wonderfully feminine hot-pink de la Renta number during her date with Petrovsky to the Met (and McDonalds).

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Carrie wearing an Oscar de la Renta dress

Overcoat

While an overcoat might sound like a masculine option, it’s important not to underestimate the versatility of such an item. An absolute necessity for winter, especially given our unpredictable Irish climate, a tailored overcoat will have you looking as though you stepped right off the catwalk. Choose grey, navy or camel and make sure the length is to your knee or past to to get this look right. Pair with slim cut jeans to balance the volume of the coat and choose statement accessories… Vogue ready in no time! We love the below monochrome Topshop piece, £75 (€93).

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Topshop £75 (€93)

Ossie Clark

Born in 1942, Raymond Ossie Clarke was a fashion designer who made a huge impact on the fashion scene during the 1960s. His romantic floaty vintage designs featured nipped in waists and plunging necklines and soon became must-have items on the style scene of the time. The designer inspired some respected fashion names including Yves Saint Laurent and Tom Ford. When speaking of Clarke’s work, Manolo Blahnik once said:  “He created an incredible magic with the body and achieved what fashion should do — produce desire.” Ossie Clark died in 1996 and his passing was a huge loss to the fashion world.

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Nicole Scherzinger wearing an Ossie Clarke design