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24th Jul 2023
From her does-it-all coat to her must-have knit, here are Aoife Dunican’s favourite fashion finds.
Image consultant and personal stylist Aoife Dunican founded her personal and corporate styling service, The Style Bob, to help people amplify their image for confidence, presence, and impact. Here, we get an exclusive glimpse into her enviable wardrobe.
How would you describe your personal style?
I love a little ‘unpredictable chic’ – classic with a little curiosity thrown in. I’m always attracted to great tailoring like a well cut blazer but then I’d need to juxtapose the look with a yellow resin cuff or an interesting shoe to add interest and curiosity to the look. Clothes are a wonderful form of art and self-expression so I’ll always run over my look before I leave the house to ensure my clothes represent exactly who I am.
My jewellery box goes everywhere with me when I am travelling. I was wearing all grey recently during the day in London and then I changed in the cab to silver shoes and red earrings by Melissa Curry and I was ready to go out. It felt very me but was easy. I always tell clients to respect their own style personality as it gives you great freedom to experiment and see what works for you. We are all unique and our clothes should represent that.
The go-to shoe
Metallic flat slingbacks in summer and my green suede Hogan Olympia trainers all year round (my physio was impressed and my sister said do you ever take them off!).
The does-it-all coat
A navy wool pea coat – long and warm enough to cover the bottom and short enough to look like a formal and casual blazer all at the same time. I always take my navy Sandro one when travelling to cities in winter then I have a lighter snakeskin one for summer. I’ve my eye on a black and white check one at the moment that could be worn all year round.
The perfect jeans
Mid rise cropped flare grey or blue jeans. FRAME or MOTHER jeans would be my go-to for these. A cropped jean/trouser has that amazing ability to balance the hip and thigh area which is extremely flattering on the leg. They also look great with heels, flats, sock boots and trainers. I made the switch five years ago from skinny jeans and have never looked back as they were more flattering on my frame.
The must-have knitwear
Cashmere in neutrals and in pink. I love hot pink in particular as it suits my skin tone. I’m always freezing so I can justify the cost per wear and I love the versatility of cashmere- I recently put a client in a cashmere knit with a sequined skirt for a black tie. You can access cashmere at lots of different price points but always think of cost per wear.
The everyday jewellery
Little gold hoops from MoMuse Powerscourt. Birthday gift from my friend.
The wear-everywhere handbag
Always the tote girl and love the totes right now from Irish designers I am Peelo, Bags by Landa and My name is Ted.
The Sunday cosy casual look
Jeans, trainers, cashmere and a cup of tea.
The ultimate pyjamas
One that is clean and matches! I love Eberjey when they go on sale.
The party look essential
Statement earrings and red lip. I’ll always add my gold leaf earrings from Loulerie to make a simple look not so simple- they change everything. Accessories are a great talking point.
The most treasured piece
My 18 year old Moschino leopard print jacket. I call it my ‘chatty’ jacket as I’ve had wonderful chats with the most interesting people who have stopped me to admire it.
The wishlist item
Le smoking tuxedo jacket from YSL. I love men’s tailoring and used to love looking at the design of my father’s sports jackets – the double vents, the lapels, the pocket flaps, everything. The YSL jacket would have all those things and more. I mean how fab would you feel wearing it.
The vintage shop to know
I love Ruby Rouge, No 38 and Vestiaire Collective online. My last three purchases were preloved as you can get some great original pieces and I love that these clothes get a second life.
Who to follow for style on social media
Zendaya is my stylish girl crush and I love Carla Rockmore, and Grece Ghanam on Instagram.
The beauty essentials / self-care ritual
SPF 50 by Dr Sam Bunting! I wouldn’t take in the green bin without it. Victoria Beckham eye liners. Lisa Eldrige red lipstick in Strawberry Shock and Kevin Aucoin volume mascara as it stays put all day without any residue.