Fashion to adorn the castle

WITH just a few weeks to go, preparations are well underway for one of the biggest fashion events of 2010 – Fashion at the Castle in Dromoland Castle, on Wednesday, September 29. This year’s fashion show is truly a style event not to be missed, featuring the top names in the fashion arena, both local and further afield.

This year’s Fashion at the Castle event is organised by the Parents’ Council of Scoil na Maighdine Mhuire in Newmarket-on-Fergus in support of the school.
TV3’s celebrity correspondent, Noel Cunningham is hosting this year’s extravaganza, while all fashions will be modelled by the Holman Lee Model Agency.
The 2010 line-up of participating boutiques is impressive and Ennis is well represented in the show, with fashions from The County Boutique, Willow and newly opened lifestyle boutique, Juniper. Annette’s Boutique in Clarecastle will also showcase its autumn/winter collection, while fashion retailers A|Wear and Debenham’s from Limerick will show what’s hot for the new season. Hailing from Limerick also are Katie-Jane’s and Mégo and Beverly Hills Fashions will travel from Galway. Joanne’s Boutique brings fashions from Killaloe and Prégo Menswear in Shannon makes sure the man in your life isn’t forgotten.
Limerick knitwear designer Caroline Mitchell takes this opportunity to show her unique knitwear range, while shoes aren’t forgotten with Nozomi Shoe Boutiques of both Ennis and Limerick supplying footwear for the show.
Galway milliner Suzie Mahony works her magic to bring a riot of colour, beauty and flamboyance to the occasion, while Desert Diamonds adds that extra sparkle with its latest jewellery. The Hair and Beauty Gallery, based in Newmarket-on-Fergus, display their sleekest, edgiest styles, while Bella, The Makeover Studios show  what make-up looks are on-trend for the autumn/winter season.
Scoil na Maighdine Mhuire principal, Ann McMahon said the aim this year is to raise funds to care for children with special needs, those who have difficulty with gross motor and fine motor skills, which prevent them from getting the most from the school curriculum.
“They have problems with co-ordination, movement and particularly written work. Thanks to Clare Crusaders,  we have an occupational therapist visit our school once a week. To support this work, we now need a play area with specially designed equipment that will strengthen the muscles and limbs of the children so they can fully access the curriculum and develop to their full potential. All funds raised by Fashion at the Castle will go towards creating this essential, life-changing resource,” she said.
Jean Maguire, who spearheads the organisation of the show, said, “We never cease to be amazed at the generosity of our supporters, suppliers and, of course, the people who come to this fashion event year after year. To be able to put on a show like this in an elegant venue like Dromoland is truly a privilege – a privilege for which we are very grateful. We are all looking forward to a great night out for the school, for the community and for all those participating in the show itself and those who will have stands in the hall on the night. We promise that there’ll be something there for everyone – you could even start your Christmas shopping.”
Tickets for the show are available from the school by calling 087 8126929 or getting in touch with any member of the parents council.