Arket is coming to Dublin, here are the staples that will elevate your wardrobe
The popular Swedish fashion retailer Arket will open its flagship Irish store on Grafton Street later this year.
Part of the H&M group, along with Cos and &Other Stories – both of which already have bricks and mortar locations in Dublin city centre – Arket has announced plans to open its first Irish shop at the junction of Dawson Street and Nassau Street later this year.
According to the Irish Times, the retailer has agreed a 10-year lease for a space across the ground- and first-floor levels of Grafton Place. The store, spanning over 1,400 square meters, marks Arket’s first physical presence in the Irish market. The news of its Dublin launch comes just a few weeks after it was announced that H&M will open its largest-ever store in the new Clerys Quarter on O’Connell Street.
A modern-day market and lifestyle destination, Arket’s first Irish branch will offer shoppers a wide assortment of fashion and beauty products as well as functional home items. Their mission? To help you curate a “more beautiful everyday life” and “democratise quality” so sustainable design is accessible to the masses.
With that in mind, we’ve rounded up a few Arket staples to elevate your current wardrobe. A capsule wardrobe should consist of a collection of essential, versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits suitable for different occasions. While individual preferences and aesthetics may vary, here are a few pieces that we believe everyone should have in their wardrobe. Shop our edit below.
A white T-shirt
A crisp, white, crew neck T-shirt will work harder than almost any other piece in your wardrobe. Particularly good for layering, you can wear it under everything from cashmere cardigans to strappy slip dresses, though it works just as well on its own with a pair of your favourite jeans. Arket’s version is soft on the skin and most importantly, not see-through.
An Oxford shirt
In a similar vein as a white T-shirt, an Oxford shirt is another piece that you’ll get incredible wear out of. Great for the office, it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion meaning it works as well for meetings as it does margaritas. For a night out, styling a corset on top gives it a high-fashion flair while a chunky knit makes it Sunday lunch-appropriate.
Oversized Wool Blend Twill Blazer, €159, Arket
A blazer
Whether you prefer tailored or oversized silhouettes, a blazer will add sophistication to an outfit with minimal effort on your part. Elevating casual looks to appear more put together, they also complement formal wear perfectly and with so many colours, patterns and fabrics to choose from, you’re bound to find one that allows you to showcase your best sartorial self.
Wide Twill Trousers, €129, Arket
Neutral-coloured trousers
A pair of neutral-coloured trousers in black, navy, grey or camel is a great wardrobe investment. Available in various silhouettes – from cigarette to paper bag to wide leg – they’re flattering to all body shapes and are a no-brainer for professional settings. For a slightly more casual outfit, look to your favourite adidas Sambas and a plain top in a solid colour.
A good pair of jeans
The cornerstone of a good capsule wardrobe, a pair of jeans is an absolute non-negotiable in my book. Celebrated for their comfort, durability, and timeless style, you’ll have to spend a bit of time finding the right pair – it won’t be fun but it will be worth it. First decide on a wash (blue, black etc.), then decide on a style (straight-leg, boyfriend cut etc.) Arket’s offering caters to all tastes but I’ve had my eye on this indigo pair for a while.
A black dress
The fashion set has been harking on about the enduring appeal of an LBD for years now and it’s clear that they were onto something. I love a legs-out moment as much as the next girl but a longer hemline probably makes more sense in Ireland where the weather is ever-changeable. A satin maxi is graceful and elegant and can double as a skirt when worn under a T-shirt – versatility is key.
Leather Ballet Flats, €149, Arket
Comfortable flats
Heels are great but flat shoes will always come out tops for me – and with the rising popularity of slingbacks, Mary Janes and ballet flats, picking up a pair you like will keep you bang on trend. Fashion appeal is obviously one aspect to consider but comfort should always be at the forefront when looking to invest in new footwear – this pair combine both. The dainty bows are a bonus.
Garment-Dyed Trench Coat, €229, Arket
A trench coat
The ultimate in chic, transitional dressing, a trench coat can make even a tracksuit look chic. Best suited to spring and autumn when temperatures are mild(er) and less extreme, their double-breasted design and belted waist will cinch you and keep you cosy. Look for water-resistant fabrics like gabardine to ensure you get the most out of your purchase.
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