Irish stylist Anne O’Shea talks wardrobe staples and the joy of impractical dressing
Irish style savant Anne O’Shea gives us a glimpse into her capsule wardrobe, and talks us through some go-to looks…
Anne O’Shea is a creative director, producer and stylist with almost a decade of experience under her belt. A well-established and highly regarded creative within the Irish fashion industry, Anne worked for two years as contributing fashion editor at Irish Country Magazine, and has styled and directed campaigns and runway shows for brands such as Arnotts, Kildare Village, August Night, and Shock of Grey.
Anne counts many celebrities and high-profile names among her clients including Aisling Bea, Deirdre O’Kane and Gráinne Seoige, pulling looks together for them for industry events, premieres, cover shoots, and award shows. Here, she gives us a greater insight into her own personal style and shopping choices, as well as her go-to pieces…
How would you describe your own personal style?
When I first saw this question, I honestly wasn’t sure how to answer, so I did what any girl would do—I asked my group chat. Words like creative, boho, hippy, colourful, unsure… you name it. I work across so many areas in fashion—stage managing, styling, producing, costume design—and I love a look that can seamlessly transition from a windy mountain shoot to a Michelin-star restaurant. Finding that balance is almost impossible, but more often than not, I’ll prioritise style over warmth or comfort.
What is your approach to clothes shopping?
I’m lucky to be introduced to new brands all the time, which means I get to experiment with different pieces and scratch the shopping itch without purchasing. I love keeping my collection small and accessible. I think we often convince ourselves we’ll love something just because it looks good on someone else or because the marketing behind it is so well done.
For me, it’s about the story behind the brand—its commitment to sustainability, positive business practices, and creativity—that really draws me in. I’m definitely someone who prefers online shopping; it’s convenient and allows me to take my time putting looks together to ensure I’m buying something that has a home in my wardrobe.
What are your thoughts on ‘haul culture’?
Allergic. Although I’m technically a Gen Z (born in ‘97), I’ve managed to escape the trend by being on the cusp. Haul culture can feel like a sugar rush—it’s exciting in the moment, but it has serious long-term impacts. It affects the environment, harms the mental health of followers who feel pressured to keep up, and promotes excessive consumption in a world where we should be focusing on more important things.
Tell us about five capsule items in your wardrobe
- Cowboy boots by Miista
- Large Bow Red Bag by August Night
- Plum Smock Dress from COS
- Classic Navy Coat from Sportsmax at Gallery9
- Blue Barrel Leg Jeans from COS (new purchase!)
Your most hard-working piece of clothing
The hardest-working piece in my wardrobe has to be my Hayley Menzies cardigan. Anyone who knows me personally would instantly recognise it. It has seen me through camping trips, multiple photoshoots, short films, dates, and significant life events since the first lockdown of 2020.
The hand-me-down you treasure
This is terrible but I’m so fussy that I don’t have one! People are usually afraid to give me clothes or jewellery in case I don’t like them.
The most quintessentially ‘you’ piece
The most quintessentially me piece has to be my Miista boots. If you lined me up with 100 other people and asked someone to pick me out just by looking at the shoes, they’d definitely find me. I can do a 12-hour day on my feet in them, so that’s saying something!
Photo by Rose Brady
The go-to shoe/trainers
As an impractical dresser, I actually prefer wearing heels when I’m working—it puts me in the right mindset. Of course, when it comes to running or training, I have my OnCloud shoes, which are perfect for that. Trainers are a tricky one for me, though—they’re so easily swept up in the trend cycle, and by the time I’ve decided whether I like them or not, they’re already out of style. ASICS, however, have definitely caught my attention. Beloved by young Anne, it’s exciting to see them jump on the fashion wagon.
The does-it-all coat
My Colin Horgan coat has the power to cover a boring outfit while creating an extraordinary one.
The perfect jeans
Easy – 7 for All Mankind – they are burgundy crushed velvet jeans. A pair I wish I had bought five of.
The must-have knitwear
Urban Aran cropped bomber – it gives shape to a pear figure without drowning your curves!
The everyday jewellery
One Dame Lane huggies. They’re perfect for someone like me. I can keep them in for days on end, and somehow, I’ve never lost a pair.
The wear-everywhere handbag
My Cabas mini-black bag by Aleo.
The Sunday cosy-casual look
Urban Aran bomber, jeans, and Tory Burch flats — that’s as casual as it gets.
The ultimate pyjamas
I love my Moon + Mellow pyjamas. I even turned an old pair into shorts and short sleeves instead of buying a new set from another brand because I love the fabric and print so much.
The party look essential
A blowdry! My hair is the piece that ties any look together. I wouldn’t be caught at a party without one.
The most treasured piece
It has to be the Hayley Menzies cardigan. I would run back for her in a fire.
The wishlist item
This is an ever-changing list but I never tire of Vivienne Westwood’s signature styles. A custom ‘Sunday’ dress if I had to choose one.
The vintage shop(s) to know
As I have just moved to London, I will report back on my favourite finds there but Jenny Vander and Vintage Finds You have to be my go-to vintage shops at home.
Who to follow online for style inspiration
- Jess Colivet – Timeless, hardworking pieces
- Secondhandhuns – Fun, green, effortless style
- Blair Eadie – Colour, print, and creativity
- Folakè – Perfectly flattering shapes and combos
- Grece Ghanem – Quintessential Scandi inspo
- Peggy Gou – Cool girl
Follow Anne O’Shea on Instagram @_anneoshea_
