Looking chic whatever the weather

As April showers show their consistency, The Clare Champion takes a look at stylish ways to avoid the drenching they bring. From shape to colour and ways to wear them, an Ennis boutique owner gives advice on the best ways to bring back the mac.

Olivia Claffey opened Alibi in Ennis in June 2004 to cater for women of all shapes and sizes from eight to 28. She recently showed some of the shop’s fashions at the Boutique Chic event in Glór. Among the stand-out pieces were a selection of macs and trench coats ideal to keep spring showers at bay.

“In Ireland, a summer coat is an essential part of a woman’s wardrobe so with unpredictable weather, a lightweight coat is a must. You never know when a shower will hit and whether you are dressed in a suit or jeans, a trench or mac will always look classic. If you’re an active person, a waterproof lightweight coat is essential but make sure it’s made from a breathable material,” Olivia advises.
Indeed, light jackets, trenches and macs have been huge on the international catwalks this season. And why wouldn’t they be, considering their timeless elegance. While Burberry, Marc Jacobs, Roberto Cavalli and Moschino have shown us how it is done, there are plenty of affordable styles in boutiques countywide.
“This season the mac has come back with a bang and a twist. We are seeing more detail, whether it is a tux tail at the back, embroidery detail or turtleneck collars. And with more colours available, there’s no excuse for wearing the wrong shade,” says Olivia.
While many see the classic trench in shades of cream and beige, this season offers a bit more variety. In wearable shades for every skin and hair colour, there is something for everyone in fun and flirty trenches.
“The big colours this season are nudes, navy, reds, corals and, of course, creams and white. What is great about red and navy for the spring and summer is that you can wear them into the autumn before the weather gets too cold,” Olivia outlines.
One of the main attractions of the trench coat is that it is so wearable and adds a sense of effortless chic to any outfit.
“Macs and trenches are great because they are trans-seasonal and they look great over lots of different looks: the office suit, on the school run, over jeans or, on a night out over the LBD. A great look is a nude or tan shoe or flat with jeans, a belted mac and accessorise with sun glasses,” Olivia suggests.
“All you need now is for the sun to come out,” she adds.
One of the most important considerations when buying a coat for winter or summer is the length. No one wants an unflattering style or to be cut off at the wrong point and this season’s trenches have something for every height and shape.
“The right length really depends on the buyer, just at or below the knee is always a good guide. If your problem area is your thighs, then a coat should only show off the slimmest part of your leg. To flatter a bigger bust, keep the collar folded down to give a V shape, don’t button the top button and keep detail to a minimum. If you are slim on top then detail will disguise this and you can wear more elaborate detail.
“If you’ve got a small waist, buy a mac or trench that’s belted and remember to change the look. It’s as simple as changing the belt. So if you wear it to work during the week you can add colour and style at the weekend with a different coloured belt, so you get two looks for the price of one. That is what’s important about buying any piece for your wardrobe, ask yourself how can I wear it again? If you need any ideas just ask the sales assistant, you’ll find they’ll have lots of ideas of how to wear an outfit in different ways,” Olivia says.
“And remember, it’s important to always stick to what suits you and not the latest colour or fashion trend,” she concludes.