There was a real buzz at Louise Kennedy’s autumn/winter fashion show at her headquarters in Merrion Square on Tuesday – and not just from the guests – but the jewelled bee motifs that distinguished some lovely outfits.
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The most spectacular was a silver jacquard coat completely covered in tiny sparkling crystal bees (€1,695 – matching skirt to order) while a lighter flight settled on the cuffs and belt of another coat in black crepe (€1,395).
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Bees also pollinated a classic black/navy swing jacket and the front panels of a polo top called Fifi (€1,295). Flying insects aside, another creature from the animal world was the embroidered and richly decorated image of Kennedy’s constant and most adoring companion, Paddy, a two year old miniature Schnauzer – notably on a stylish Italian merino sweater, a wow at €695 and a T-shirt €295.
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It all serves to illustrate Kennedy’s sure touch and consummate skill when it comes to the sort of detail that can elevate something simple into the realm of luxury; her fabrics come from the top houses in Europe like Linton (who make for Chanel) and others, though her Italian jersey two-pieces are cut and made in Dublin before panels are sent to India to be hand embroidered.
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“It always comes back to the fabric and the power of colour. We have focused on Louise’s favourite combination of blue/black this season,” says Sarah-Kate Caughey of Louise Kennedy. “We understand our clients and their lifestyle and we interpret that every season and know what they want”.
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Given this winter collection of luxurious day and evening wear including a winning red floral embossed coat, Kennedy has created enough temptations to attract even more to her boutiques in Dublin and London.