How to nail model-off-duty style, with catwalk queen Kelly Horrigan

Irish model Kelly Horrigan wears clothes, quite literally, for a living – but it turns out her personal style is just as sharp as in front of the lens.

The Kildare-native has become one of the country’s most sought-after models, thanks to cheekbones you could ski down and a smouldering stare that would put Bella Hadid to shame.

In her professional modelling career, which started just after her 15th birthday, she has amassed an impressive portfolio at home and abroad that includes magazine covers, beauty brand ambassadorships and fashion work. But modelling is only one string to her bow, as Horrigan also operates her own digital marketing and online branding agency to ensure she remains immersed in all aspects of the industry.

Here, the 23-year-old fashion fanatic lets IMAGE in on her failsafe ‘uniform’, her dream designer purchase and the one accessory she’s always on the lookout for.

What makes you excited about getting dressed in the morning?

Having somewhere to go. I love having a reason to dress up, like a date night or an event. It makes choosing an outfit so much more fun.

What’s your failsafe, go-to look for a day when you’re lacking inspiration?

A good pair of jeans, a white tee and a black blazer. Wear it with trainers if you’re feeling casual, or throw a high boot on for something more dressy. For me, it’s a foolproof look for days when I just couldn’t be bothered!

Last piece you bought?

I just bought a pair of jeans from Zara that are a totally new style for me. The fit is much more relaxed than I would normally go for, they’re a super long length and they’re low rise —they sound absolutely terrifying but I’m loving them!

What’s a typical ‘off duty’ look for you?

I love basics so you’ll always find me in easy-to-style neutral looks like tees, shirts, polo necks, blazers, etc. That way, you can style the look up with good accessories like jewellery and a fab bag.

First piece you saved all your pocket money for?

A pair of Levi jeans. They were always that piece I loved seeing on celebs and wished I had.

Where do you shop usually – how often?

Zara is my go-to. I couldn’t possibly pass a Zara without a quick browse! I also have the app on my phone, which is dangerous.

If you have something big coming up, where do you look for a killer outfit?

I usually look online so I have a better selection to choose from. Zara, Mango, and ASOS are my faves. House of CB have amazing pieces at the moment too.

What do you do with your fashion purchases when you no longer need them?

My sister does very well out of my shopping habits! Every few months, I do a big wardrobe purge and give most of the pieces to her. I love that I can give my clothes a new home where they’ll get a new lease of life and be styled differently to how I wore them.

Last outfit you’d wear on earth?

Paper bag pants. I really don’t think I could make them work in any way.

Best ever bargain purchase?

I found a denim jacket in Penney once for two quid and have pulled it out every summer since.

Favorite fashion memory?

My Nanny had these mock croc shoes that I adored when I was little! The minute I got to her house I would put them on and stomp around until the second we were going home. Thinking about them, I feel like would actually wear them now.

Designer you’d wear all the time if you won the Lotto?

At the moment I’m obsessed with Orseund Iris. The pieces are so effortless dreamy.

Read More: Love Orseund Iris tops? Here’s eight affordable dupes

Where do you seek style inspiration?

Instagram. I love scrolling through my explore tab and seeing amazing style instantly. It’s like being able to people watch in the best fashion cities around the world but from your couch.

Trend you’d never be caught dead in?

OTT festival fashion. Glitter and body chains… it’s a no from me.

Trend you’d wear ‘til the cows come home?

The crisp white shirt. It’s such a versatile piece that I don’t think I could ever be embarrassed by in the future. Super easy to style and you’ll always look presentable, what’s not to love?

One thing that’s been on your wishlist forever?

An amazing piece of vintage jewellery. Something that I can imagine the story behind.

Related: 

• Five minutes with Irish fashion entrepreneur Johanna Dooley…here
• Meet the Vancouver-based Irish fashion blogger who can’t live without her sneakers…here
• Meet the Irish fashion show producer whose job takes her from Coachella to fashion week…here