Source: © www.cmprireland.com

Can you believe it’s that time, already!? As I write this post a light snow is falling, but all thoughts of winter disappear as I scroll though the shots from last week’s West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK press launch.  The colour of sunshine, it looks like yellow is taking centre stage this summer.

And where better to host the launch, than the ultra stylish terrace at Robinson & Cleaver. It used to be the ladies fashion floor – now it's the floor where fashionable ladies lunch. On a sunny day there is no better view in Belfast – or at least none with waiter service.  With dramatic views of city hall in the background, West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK  announced the schedule for the four-day fashion festival, which offers some serious style inspiration, for the season ahead.

Taking place from 23-26 March, at venues across the city, the busy schedule sees the return of the high street and designer runway shows, alongside popular fashion fringe events Sushi Saturday at Asian favourite Zen, as well as Style Sunday - which this season is held at Coco, on Mother’s Day - for the stylish mum’s perfect day out.

New events include a ‘Lavazza Coffee Style' Saturday brunch, at Robinson & Cleaver, on Saturday 25 March. This event offers the ultimate fashion filter, with key looks from across the fashion spectrum selected by some of the country’s top stylists, including Courtney Smith and Cool FM’s Rebecca McKinney, as well as London-based Jamie Russell and Lewis Cameron.

A make-up masterclass, courtesy of FASHIONWEEK’s new title make up sponsor, KARAJA, is also planned. Meanwhile, hair partners, ALFAPARF Milano, will ensure the models’ locks are luscious, throughout all events, by teaming up with some of the country’s best hair salons; including Paul Stafford and Ben Close, as well as Chrysalis and Scissor Sisters from Newry, among others.

Director Cathy Martin commented on the season’s key trends: “This season there is a focus on fun with playful colours and bold statements being made everywhere. My favourites among all the trends include the palettes of pinks, yellows and blues, as well as gorgeous ginghams and loads of Beetlejuice-inspired stripes. For eveningwear, there are mesmerizing metallics and sassy sequins, which will satisfy all the fashion magpies, out there.  A feminine feel continues from AW16 with a tap into texture, so there’ll be loads more of romantic ruffles and playful plumes first seen on the Gucci, Chloe and Celine catwalks internationally.”

In addition to some of their regular designers, they’re opening the catwalks to the likes of ASOS, Zara, River Island, H&M and TOPSHOP, via their stylist picks at the high street shows and at the new Style Saturday event.

For further information and links to the full show schedule plus tickets, visit the Belfast Fashion Week Facebook page or www.belfastfashionweek.com .  Catwalk tickets, which cost £20 (or £30 for a limited number of exclusive front row seats), are available from the Belfast Welcome Centre on 028 9024 6609 or via the website. Sushi Saturday, Lavazza’s Style Saturday and Style Sunday, can be booked directly with the FASHIONWEEK team at 02890421509 or via cathy@cmprireland.com. Each show’s ticket price includes a goodie bag, and a refreshing West Coast Cooler.

Perhaps then, it’s time to reconsider this thorny hue and serve your look sunny-side up, this spring; or do you play it safe, and wear with classic black? 

 

Related Stories