Max Hernandez
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Playful pairings: Irish-made outfits to wear on your next holiday
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IMAGE's own Dearbhla Lovett recently escaped the city with a scenic staycation in Co Kildare. Inspired by Malfy Gin's summery colour palette, she donned playful outfits and accessories – all made by Irish designers – for a fun dose of dopamine dressing. Here's everything she wore (and where to buy them!)... plus, enter below for your chance to WIN a matching set of luggage from Antler, worth €795.
Summer and Ireland might not always be the most predictable pairing, but when the weather is good, there’s truly nowhere quite like it. Growing up in the Irish countryside, I never fully appreciated its magic until I moved to the city – the greenery, the birds singing, the blissful absence of sirens… it all feels like luxury. That’s why I jumped at the chance for a staycation at the idyllic Cliff at Lyons. Tucked away in the rural surrounds of Kildare, it feels like the ultimate countryside escape.
I am an extremely last-minute packer, so my suitcase was brimming with everything I thought I might need – thrown in but still folded! When packing for a staycation, versatility is key. I always ask: how many different ways can I wear this one piece? A skirt that works with a t-shirt for the daytime and a cute top for dinner? Accessories that elevate or dress down? When it comes to summer dressing in Ireland, you never quite know what you’re in for, so flexibility is your best friend.
One constant for me, however, is sunglasses. Rain or shine, December or June, I always have a pair on me. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with Maie Atelier — an Irish-designed brand doing sunglasses really well. Their bold blue frames add a pop of colour, while the olive pair go with literally everything. They look and feel extremely luxurious, with a more affordable price tag!
When it comes to styling outfits, we often put too much pressure on perfect pairings. For me, there are no rules. In fact, the looks that shouldn’t work often end up being my favourites. There should always be an element of fun in pairing outfits together, too – a luxe top with something playful and casual on the bottom, an oversized Aran knit with check shorts, grapes dipped in hummus (trust me on this one), or Malfy Blood Orange with peach tonic – divine!
Right now, I’m loving independent womenswear label Nimiiny. Their co-ord sets make it easy to mix, match, and experiment. More outfits, but taking up less suitcase space. (Although I still overpack every time.)
That’s the beauty of summer style – it doesn’t have to follow rules. It can be colourful, playful, thrown-together and still feel entirely you. Whether it’s mismatched styles, unexpected accessories, or your favourite pieces reimagined in new ways, the best summer outfits are the ones that feel fun, flexible, and a little bit free-spirited. Just like a weekend escape or a perfectly imperfect Malfy cocktail, they’re made to be enjoyed, not overthought.
Shop the look
Enter to win
Inspired for your next trip away? We’re giving away a matching set of luggage from Antler in the shade ‘Mist Blue’, worth €795. For your chance to win, simply fill out the form below:
Photography by Max Hernandez
To learn more about Malfy Gin, please visit them online.
Please visit www.drinkaware.ie for more information on how to drink responsibly.
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