Futura August 2014 Issue

TRENDS AND COLLECTIONS FOR SS15 BRAZIL CALLING: WHY THE LATIN AMERICAN GIANT MAY BE THE NEXT BIG THING IN CLOTHING MANUFACTURING INTERVIEW: SIMON COPE OF SKOPES

JACK MURPHY SPRING SUMMER 2015 COLLECTION

Tel: +353 (0)1 8414200 Email: info@jackmurphy.ie Web: www.jackmurphy.eu

contents August 2014

A very warm welcome to the August issue of Futura, which, as with last month’s edition, incorporates Menswear and Footwear in Ireland.

Once again, the spotlight shines on SS15 and that means the second and concluding segment of our two-part fashion previews for the leading men’s and women’s collections, as well as trend reports for the key trends in casualwear.

With the summer in full swing, it’s heartening to hear of sales figures soaring. Figures remain, of course, some way short of the heyday of the Celtic Tiger era, but many retailers have enjoyed superb results over the past few weeks, which is hugely promising to hear.

Another great success story can be found on page 10, where Simon Cope of menswear label Skopes talks to us about his company’s strong growth in the competitive men’s market and how it continues to expand its market share, and reveals his ambitious plans for its future. It all makes for a fascinating – and very insightful - read.

Our attention moves thousands of miles away on page 22 as our assistant editor Domhnall O’Donoghue reports back on a recent trip to South America where he learnt how Brazil is now actively rebranding as a manufacturing country and promoting itself as a destination for exporting fabrics, clothes, accessories and footwear.

News

2

Interview: From Strength to Strength

10

Showtalk

14

Vox Pop: Summer Sales

18

Brazil Calling

22

Closer to home, though, we’re happy to observe the grass shoots of recovery thriving in this busy summer. And long may it last!

Trends of Summer: Ladieswear 24

See you next month.

Trends of Summer: Menswear 26

Best wishes, Alexander

Alexander Fitzgerald Features Editor mail@futuramagazine.ie

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Shopcall: Happy Feet 32 The Style Files: SS15 Collections 33

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FUTURA Ireland’s Fashion Business Magazine

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Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

news FROCKADVISOR LISTED AS ONE OF THE TOP DIGITAL RETAIL INNOVATIONS

FLORIDA GROUP APPOINTS NEW COUNTRY MANAGER

Frockadvisor, the social commerce fashion platform, which is the brainchild of Irish stylists and TV presenters Sonya Lennon and Brendan Courtney, has been named one of the top 45 digital innovations in retail in the UK and Ireland.

In the first report of its kind to throw the spotlight on some of the most interesting and impactful-digitally driven retail innovations, Retailinsider.com listed the Frockadvisor app alongside developments from such global brands as Google, Starbucks, Paypal and IKEA. The Frockadvisor app is a customer service and engagement platform that links retailers with their loyal customers. Retailers can join only by invitation or approval, thereby creating a circle of excellence where rich and engaging content is created for the end-customer.

Commenting on the achievement, Sonya Lennon, co-founder of Frockadvisor, said, “We are thrilled to be recognised in this new report which sees us sitting alongside a host of household retail names. Brendan and I first came up with the concept of Frockadvisor when we wrote our two books. In the back of both, we catalogued the fashion retail landscape in Ireland. We noticed that only 19% of independent retailers were online and therefore simply not on the digital shopping list. Yet, they had loyal customers helping them to survive. Our vision was to find a way to bring these existing communities online, and help retailers to reach a new audience in an easy, cost effective and engaging way.”

The new Retailinsider.com report was compiled following consultation with a broad selection of individuals across the retail industry – encompassing analysts, senior retailers, researchers and IT specialists.

MIXED FORTUNES FOR GRAFTON STREET While Grafton Street, Dublin’s most famous shopping thoroughfare, has had plenty to celebrate about recently with the opening of new global stores such as Massimo Dutti and Levi’s, it has also had its fair share of struggles, largely on account of the €4m repaving project that has been in progress since June of last year.

The 3.5 million tourists that meander up and down the street each year have been greeted with the continuous sound of stone cutting, clouds of dust, barriers as well as an abundance of littering. What’s more, the results that have already been revealed have not been warmly received.

The much-loved red pavement has made way for granite paving slabs that appear dull and, more worryingly, dirty.

Dublin City Council, however, is confident that the end results will be worth it, with specially commissioned street furniture and lighting yet to be incorporated.

The renovations continue until autumn this year.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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The Florida Group recently announced the appointment of Samantha Byrne as country manager for Ireland for both the Van Dal and Pikolinos brands. She will succeed Gerry Buckley who is retiring after eleven years as agent for Van Dal. Byrne joins Florida with a wealth of experience in the footwear trade, having run her own agency business for many years, selling several well-known brands to the retail sector before latterly running her own retail store in Ireland.

Byrne’s main priority going forward will be to identify new partnership opportunities with key independent retailers, to sign them up for our rapidly expanding Shop-in-Shop programme, and to develop existing partnerships to drive further growth.

The retail landscape in Ireland is changing and the company aims to recruit quality independent retailers to join the 50 or more partners already established in the UK and Ireland. The Van Dal Brand already has concessionaires in both Arnotts and Boyers department stores in Dublin.

Samantha Byrne

news FASHION GETS SET TO COME TOGETHER AT FASHION CITY

RETAILERS YET TO SEE BENEFITS OF SOCIAL MEDIA According to a survey carried out by e-commerce solutions provider ChannelAdvisor, two-thirds of retailers in the fashion, apparel, health, beauty, grocery and entertainment sectors are yet to see any direct business benefits as a result of embracing social media.

While the majority of retailers polled revealed that, while they were interacting with consumers online, only a third reported a spike in customer engagement. The others felt that there was no impact on sales as a result of platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.

“It’s great to hear that online retailers are embracing social media but the survey results suggest that some are finding it difficult to see tangible results from their efforts,” said Zoe Ripley, ChannelAdvisor’s marketing director of EMEA. “Keeping customers engaged requires time as well as an effective social media strategy, targeted not just towards Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest users, but to a brand’s general consumers.”

The findings also indicated that Pinterest was the platform most underused by businesses, despite its growing popularity and heavy focus on imagery.

LEVI’S LAUNCHES SUSTAINABLE FOOTWEAR LINE

Sunday 17 August will witness the much-awaited season return of ‘Fashion Coming Together’ in Fashion City in Ballymount, Dublin 24.

The industry trade fair, which will be produced by Bheard Productions Ireland, will showcase AW14 stock houses and SS15 showrooms, as well some of the most stylish Irish and international fashion brands.

Fashion shows Olivia Tracey will be amongst the models at at the event will Fashion Coming Together commence on Sunday 17 at 1pm and 4pm and will feature some of Ireland’s most in-demand models, including Rebecca Maguire, Aoife Walsh and former Miss Ireland, Olivia Tracey.

Light refreshments will be provided while discounted accommodation will be available in the nearby Louis Fitzgerald and Red Cow hotels over the two days.

Levi’s has launched an innovative new trainer line that has been created using recycled post-consumer waste.

The Solvang sneaker forms part of the brand’s SS14 collection, and uses a partially recycled mesh in the upper ankle area and inside lining as well as more traditional materials like suede and leather detailing.

The line reinforces Levi’s long-running sustainability initiative, that includes the WasteLess collection which is made from an average of eight recycled plastic bottles. The initiative also encompasses the WaterLess scheme, that also involves denim made with less, and 100% recycled water and, according to Levis’ statistics, reduced water consumption in their factories in 2012 by 360 million litres.

Arrow, the 160-year-old brand, has just launched the limited edition Superluxe, an eco-friendly shirt without a single stitch in sight.

As Superluxe has no visible stitches, customers are presented with a shirt that is 100% wrinkle-free. SuperLuxe is crafted from super-premium 2-ply fabric that is soft and luxuriant. Even the buttons are thread-free, ensuring a totally clean, flawless and impeccable look.

Since 1851, the quintessential American brand has dressed presidents, business tycoons and famous personalities alike in the best traditions of style and elegance.

JOCKEY CAUSES A STIR IN DUBLIN CITY CENTRE A colourful billboard promoting Jockey’s underwear range at Michael Barrie is causing quite a stir in Dublin city centre.

The vast billboard, which is located at the intersection of Duke Lane and Duke Street, depicts five scantily-clad men and women, each in tight-fitting underwear from Jockey’s latest collection, and prompting the view to prove that he or she is indeed wearing Jockey.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

NEW STITCHLESS SHIRT FROM ARROW

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Tamaris Ireland • David Coogan • 10, Shrewsbury Manor • Drogheda, Co. Louth • Phone: 041 9847369 • Mobile: 086 2779480 • E-Mail: david.coogan@wortmann.com • tamaris.eu Wortmann KG: P.O. Box 31 53 • D-32721 Detmold/Germany • Phone: +49.52 31.605.129 • Fax: +49.52 31.605.5.129 • E-Mail: sales@wortmann.com • www.wortmann.com

news PERSIL IRISH FASHION AWARDS CELEBRATE 15 YEARS OF SUPPORTING IRISH STUDENTS This year, Persil Irish Fashion Andrew Bell Awards celebrates its 15th year as one of the top fashion bursary competitions in Ireland. One of the eight finalists for the Persil Irish Fashion Awards ’14 will receive €10,000 and the chance to have their creative outfit manufactured and sold in Dunnes Stores. The final will take place in September on TV3’s Xposé, offering all the finalists a wonderful platform to showcase their talent.

GRIFFITH COLLEGE GRADUATE FASHION SHOW CELEBRATES ITS EMERGING DESIGNERS The latest Griffith College Graduate Fashion Show showcased emerging talent from the next generation of Irish fashion designers.

Compéred by Irish model Alison Canavan, the fashion show saw more than 50 students display their collections. Guests scouting for upcoming talent included Ireland’s leading fashionista Cathy O’Connor and renowned blogger Lorna Weightman, as well as top Irish designers Joanne Hynes, Liz Quin, Helen McAlinden, Jennifer Rothwell, Louis Copeland and Fiona Heaney of the independent fashion house Fee G. Cliodhna Scully, Brid McDonald, Emma Collopy, Arvydas Zapivalovas, Sarah Jane Doyle, Holly Walsh and Heather O’Connor were among the students who were honoured with coveted summer internships with top designers.

In conjunction with Persil Small & Andrew Bell Mighty, the theme of this year’s competition is a Persil Play Date.

The brief to students was to design and make an outfit suitable for a fun day at the park, while being mindful that growing up is a messy business.

The designs needed to be casual, machine washable and durable.

Hundreds of aspiring designers, from Ireland’s leading art and design colleges, submitted portfolios in January. Persil has teamed up with leading Irish fashion designers Peter O’Brien and Carolyn Donnelly of Dunnes Stores as judges.

The eight finalists’ outfits will be showcased in selected Dunnes Stores nationwide during September 2014.

STRONG GROWTH IN 2014 FOR OLYMP Olymp has recorded a 10 per cent growth in the first six months of 2014. This much-welcomed increase came despite the continuing economic crisis in some parts of Europe. Overall, the German-based manufacturer was up by 9.7 per cent on the same period for 2013, which translates to €104.8 million.

Mark Bezner, owner and CEO of Olymp, explained that it was their casual shirts and knitted goods that were proving particularly appealing to customers.

Award winning jewellery for over 20 Years

“Demand has again increased noticeably as part of the general relaxation of the dress code in the business world,” Bezner revealed.

The number of people employed at the company site and in the Olymp branches has risen in the last six months to a total of 631 full and part-time personnel. Given the sustained growth, a further increase in staff can be expected in the course of 2014 and into the foreseeable future.

Stock Service

Mark Bezner, CEO of Olymp

Tel: 042-937 9148 M: 087-243 4059 Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014 E: Dorothy@coronasilver.ie | www.coronasilver.ie

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Stock Collections Sizes 10-24 Showing at Fashion Coming Together at Fashion City.

OPEN Sunday August 17th

Choklate PURPLEROSE

EVANNA

lising a i c e sp in izes s s u l p

B&D DESIGN

10 Fashion City Ballymount Road Upper Dublin 24.

Fax/Phone: 00353 (0)1 429 5909 Phone: 00353 (0) 86 819 5553 Email: mcdonnellagencies@gmail.com Agent: Derek O’Gorman 00353 (0) 87 227 3056

news UPWARD-ONLY RENT CLAUSE CONTINUES TO HOLD BUSINESSES TO RANSOM

SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR H&M H&M, the popular and affordable Swedish fashion company, has seen revenue in Ireland soar in the six months up until the end of May. Enthusiastic Irish customers parted with over €41m during this period, up 33% from the same time frame a year ago.

This summer’s ruling by the Supreme Court to uphold an upward-only rent contract in the case of Bewley’s Café on Dublin’s Grafton Street has re-ignited anger amongst retailers and small businesses who are at the mercy of landlords.

The overall H&M group had worldwide revenues of €7.4bn for the same sixmonth period and made €1.2bn pre-tax profit. The chain boasts 3,285 stores in 54 markets and has plans to open a further 375 stores this year.

It recently launched an Irish online store for its & Other Stories womenswear brand, which has been extremely well received so far.

The Supreme Court’s ruling overturned a previous decision in the High Court, which said that Bewley’s rent could go up or down.

Bewley’s, whose annual rent is €1.46m, was originally led to believe that this figure could be reduced to the market rate of €728,000, but the Supreme Court has now ruled otherwise and the café is forced to return to the original “oppressive” sum. The difference is about €14,000 per week.

David Fitzsimons, Chief Executive at Retail Excellence Ireland, said: “It’s terribly sad to see a progressive Irish company [like Bewley’s] - that employs a lot of people - have a lease so onerous that it causes concern and pain.

Enda Kenny says Ireland is the best place in the world to do business, which is nonsense.”

The latest ruling is a major setback for retailers, some of which have been caught with enormous boom-time rents. Any profit that is being made, if at all, disappears paying such colossal rents, preventing businesses to expand or, in many cases, forcing them to shut up shop for good. Getting a rent reduction based on the current market, and not 2005 or 2006, seems to be the only way of survival.

SCHOOL UNIFORM PRICEWAR BEGINS AMONGST RETAILERS

Fitzsimons also added that the last remaining solution available now to Irish businesses trapped in such upward-only rental properties is to employ “tactics” by setting up a new company, moving tenable leases and trading entities to this new company, then going back to the landlords and renegotiating.

Earlier this year, a drive to bring down uniform costs by the Department of Education saw parents being asked if they wanted schools to have a uniform, and, if so, if they wanted a choice in where these uniforms were sourced.

CLINTON DELIVERS KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT SKECHERS’ GLOBAL CONFERENCE

Despite the fact that up to 52% of parents failed to receive this survey, a poll carried out by children’s charity Barnardos discovered that a majority was in favour of being able to purchase cheaper options.

Former President Bill Clinton recently delivered the keynote address at the annual Global Conference for Skechers.

And so, something of a price war has broken out amongst retailers with Aldi now selling uniforms priced at just €6.50, while Tesco is offering them for a mere €6. Dunnes Stores also has a range of low-priced generic uniform items in stock.

At the event, which was held in California, former President Clinton spoke to 1,500 Skechers executives, team members and international partners about the importance of working together toward common goals for the sake of shared prosperity in the world. Using the successes of the Clinton Foundation in the context of ever-changing political and social challenges as his case Paul Gallagher, Bill Clinton study, Former President Clinton said, “Within and Sunil Shah America, all over the world, people who believe in win-win scenarios, who really are trying to build networks of creative cooperation, are making good things happen.”

These uncrested garments in typical school colours such as grey, navy and black allow parents to shop around for cheaper items instead of being forced to buy from specialist providers.

Aldi buying director Colin Breslin said there was high demand in the last two summers when it started offering cut-price uniforms.

“We know that sending children back to school can be extremely costly for families and at Aldi we aim to reduce that financial pressure,” he said.

At the conclusion of his remarks, President Clinton sat down for an on-stage interview with Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers, where they discussed the importance of strong leadership, communication, service and social media within the global marketplace. After the event, Greenberg noted: “It was an incredible honour to sit down for a conversation with President Clinton this afternoon. His perseverance and commitment to action through the Clinton Foundation and beyond is an inspiration to all.

“The theme of the Skechers Global Conference this year was Innovate to Elevate and the President’s message about institutionalizing constant change in a positive way speaks strongly to our company, our culture and everyone who has helped make Skechers a success story around the world.”

Skechers footwear is available in over 100 countries worldwide.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

Aldi’s school uniforms

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news RIVAL OWNERS OF ARNOTTS WORKING TOGETHER A temporary truce has been called between the new owners of Dublin’s Arnotts Department Store.

Apollo, the US private equity group, and a joint venture involving Selfridges, have put aside differences and are now working together to restructure the retailer’s balance sheets.

The groups were rival bidders for Arnotts and acquired their stakes by separately buying loans sold by Ulster Bank and IRBC. Selfridges, along with Noel Smyth’s Fitzwilliam Finance Partners, purchased €140m of Ulster Bank’s loans, while Apollo bought €230m in Arnotts loans from the special liquidators to IRBC. Selfridges and Smyth have plans to develop the store and properties in the surrounding areas but would have to buy Apollo’s stake. As it stands, the American group has no immediate plans to sell.

After tensions between both sides, they are understood to be co-operating together to find a financial solution for the troubled retailer.

Last year, Arnotts had revenue of nearly €70m but its €17m interest bill pushed it into the red to the sum of €10m.

IRISH DESIGNER LACKS HOPE FOR IRISH GARMENT INDUSTRY If we are to believe Don O’Neill, the high-end fashion designer, whose work has been worn by the likes of Oprah Winfrey, then Ireland’s garment industry has collapsed.

The Kerryman recently argued that it is virtually impossible to start a clothing line in Ireland any longer, claiming the lack of infrastructure here prevents designers from making their collections at home. O’Neill notes that on account of manufacturing moving to lower-cost countries in the past 20 years, there is a dearth of factories being built in Ireland, resulting in unique skill sets disappearing, which ultimately leads to local talent being forced to leave the country in order to build their businesses.

O’Neill, who is based in New York, has found huge success, not in his beloved Ireland, but rather in the Middle East where women typically favour the type of long, luxury dresses he creates.

MCELHINNEY’S NOMINATED FOR DRAPER’S AWARDS Donegal’s McElhinney’s department store has recently been announced as a finalist in two categories at the forthcoming Draper’s Independent Awards. In addition to its nomination for Independent Department Store of the Year, the store is shortlisted for Best Independent Multichannel Operator. Speaking about the store’s success, Martin McElhinney said he was “delighted”.

“I’m very lucky to work alongside such a talented group of people,” he added.

The prestigious award ceremony will take place in London this September.

CHANGE OF DIRECTION FOR CARL GROSS For their upcoming spring collection, men’s tailoring label Carl Gross is presenting blazers with a new body shape, featuring slimmer silhouettes, formfitting cuts and steeper shoulders. Called Sharp Fit, it is a noticeable move away from the brand’s usual mainstream look.

The collection will also see the addition of new blends such as mohair and wool as well as the use of jacquards to create more fashion-forward looks. Contrast stitching, collar loops and discreet piping can all be found here.

In terms of their casual single jackets, a soft shoulder line in jersey fabrics are key features and come in blue, grey, beige and brown.

International Business Development Manager Carraig Donn Manufacturing is Ireland’s leading knitwear manufacturer and now wishes to recruit for the above position to focus on new export opportunities as part of the company’s ambitious growth plans.

Candidates should have: • A proven track record of new business development in export markets, ideally in a related industry.

• A third level Marketing/Sales qualification.

• Strong communication and people skills.

• Computer literate.

Reporting to the Sales & Marketing Manager, the position while based in Westport requires extensive international travel.

A competitive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate.

Please send CV along with Cover letter to: Kieran Costello, Carraig Donn Manufacturing, Lodge Road, Westport, Co. Mayo.

Email: Kieran.c@carraigdonn.com Closing date: Friday, September 12th, 2014.

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Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

feature

Strength Strength

Simon Cope A third-generation family business with strong family values, Skopes has been – and continues to be – one of the key successes in a highly competitive menswear market. In an exclusive interview with Futura, company chairman Simon Cope talks about the label’s evolution, how it has consolidated its market share and evolved in Ireland, and its exciting plans for the future.

Congratulations on the growth of the Skopes brand. How have you managed to increase your market share in Ireland?

We’re delighted that our growth within Ireland has been rapid and sustained. It boils down to many things: carefully considering where the gaps are in the market place; a well-thought out strategy of marketing; sensitive pricing; and,

most importantly, considering who can open the doors on the Southern and Northern Accounts.

We took our time in choosing which agency Skopes should ‘get into bed’ with; Gosson Agencies Ltd. are a professional business with years of experience in the buying and the selling of menswear clothing. They have represented the brand superbly in Ireland and have shown a great understanding of the Irish market.

They continually listen to customers and their requirements on everything from what price points and margins clients need to the most suitable fabrics and colours, and the best fits and silhouettes for Irish men.

Furthermore, their extensive work on the Skopes account has been particularly helpful.

Once Gosson Agencies has accumulated all the

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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relevant information, they sit down with the buying team and aim to deliver exactly what the Irish customers need. It sounds easy but it takes a lot of organisation, discipline and hard work.

They then try to capitalise on any early signs of success - for example, making all of Skopes’ suiting and occasion wear mix-and-match, keeping everything in stock, always eliminating weaknesses and, finally, constantly adding to strengths.

How do you maintain the freshness and relevance of Skopes in a rapidly evolving menswear market?

We have both seasonal and stock service garments, which ensures that Skopes is always very up-to-date with key looks and trends.

A very comprehensive seasonal offering is

Jonathan and Sinéad Gosson, Gosson Agencies Ltd.

Simon Cope (middle) available in suits, jackets, trousers, coats and a selection of casualwear. The stock service garments, meanwhile, are offered in suits, jackets and trousers. These are also available in outsizes, some up to 62”chest/58” waist.

You have recently invested in a very detailed and impressive leather-bound stock service brochure. Has this been successful?

Yes, it most certainly has. Each and every customer we have has a detailed and comprehensive view of everything we have in stock.

Skopes at Gosson Agencies Ltd’s Dublin showroom Our goal is always to please our clients. They must have the best product and the best prices with the best margin from Skopes. This is always our goal.

Although geographically close, the Irish and UK menswear markets are often quite different. What is your own experience of this?

Mix-and-Match has proved very successful for you as a brand. Why do you think this has worked so well?

The Irish market place is more progressive than in the UK in general. Our Irish clients invest in their business on a regular basis. We too are always updating our own business, so together I see a strong future for many years to come.

Every suit sold should be a ‘Mix and Match’; the days of a person being a standard 6” drop or so are gone. It is, of course, more complicated to stock but that is what we do – and it has served us well.

What do you believe have been the key factors in the company’s success?

The availability of outsizes in the Skopes collection is highly commendable. Does this make up a significant percentage of overall sales?

A clear and devised strategy of determination. A very strong focus on detail and pricing - design and customer relations. Gosson Agencies Ltd. are a very formidable team with a strong relationship with our own team in England.

Our turnover this year should be around £17 million. Outsizes represent a significant portion of that figure.

What labels do you view as the key competitors for Skopes?

Skopes prides itself on a three-day turnaround. Has this been a major factor in the brand’s success?

There are many labels within Ireland that could be classed as competition. However, while it is important to understand what they are doing, we do not concern ourselves too much with other labels. Our view is that so long as we constantly deliver the right product at the right price and with the right service, then the sales will talk for themselves.

Yes, for sure. Our business is so strong in the occasion wear market of weddings and graduations and debutants balls that we have to offer quick deliveries. Our customers know they can depend on us; they know that Skopes always has the stock.

How do you maintain the clothing’s competitive price points?

As I eluded to earlier, we see it as a very strong part of our business. Everything is Mix and Match. We can deliver in three days. We always have the stock. We have many different fits and styles and colours to choose from. Why rent when you can buy from Skopes?

When one season finishes we begin immediately on the next. We approach every cost - cloth, CMT, carriage, etc. - separately. We then try to work backwards to the retailers selling price.

How are you responding to the needs of the wedding and debs markets?

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You have previously acknowledged the importance of supporting independent retailers. What are the main ways you have done or do this?

We support our Irish Independent customers in a number of ways. These include extended payment terms, EDLP (everyday low prices) and free marketing and promotional help.

What can we expect to see from Skopes in the short- to medium-term future?

Our customers can expect to see growth. We listen to our clients needs and try to deliver them. Whether its bright blue fitted suits or lower price points we will Endeavour to please always.

Are you looking to open new accounts in Ireland?

Of course, we are always looking to expand our customer base. We leave this decision up to Gosson Agencies Ltd., who have handled and policed our growth with great precision. I would suggest that they contact Sinéad Gosson for an appointment!

For appointments to view the Skopes collection, please contact Sinéad Gosson at: Gosson Agencies Ltd., 22 Forbes Street, Sir John Rogersons Quay, Dublin 2 Tel: +353 (0)1 670 6525; gossonagencies@eircom.net

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

feature

Fantastic Forward Order Fashions at CHRISTOPHER WREN

Pause Café

Sathia

T-Studio Therapy

Savage Culture

Eroke

Missing Johnny

SAVAGE CULTURE

It’s an exciting time at Christopher Wren Clothing Company Ltd., as the Fashion City-based distributor compiles a diverse range of covetable, forward-order fashion collections

Daring, distinctive and brimming with personality and colour, Savage Culture’s eye-catching designs are instantly recognisable with their emphasis on unique garments embellished with embroideries, crochets, patches and rhinestones.

Forward order collections offer retailers exclusivity and the opportunity to build on a brand season after season. Seeing it as a way to work closely with buyers, Jerry and Ursula Wren provide a choice of brands to cater for every sector of the market, offering brands at middle end of the market right through to value for money brands which give a good margin.

ANA SOUSA

Visitors to their Dublin Showroom at Christopher Wren House at 43, Fashion City, can view the following SS15 collections:

EROKE

A new edition to Christopher Wren, renowned for its slimming and fit jeans, Ana Sousa specialises in sharp, classic tailored looks and fashionable mixand-match day to evening wear, including dresses, skirts, trousers, jackets and coats, as well as its signature slimming and fit jeans

With its fashion pedigree established throughout Europe, this contemporary Italian label is renowned for its stunning prints and wearable dresses, which are ideal for any occasion.

STOCK

MISSING JOHNNY

MY COLLECTION

Distributed in 10 countries and with almost 700 sale points, Missing Johnny is a thriving, cutting-edge brand which appeals to the youth market and takes inspiration from the world of theatre, music, comic and literature.

A stock range of dresses, separated and co-ordinated available from the Christopher Wren showroom and updated weekly, My Collection is designed exclusively by a team of designers that are passionate about fashion and current trends. Prices are ultra-competitive while sizes range from Small to XL.

PAUSE CAFÉ Creativity, originality, a wealth of colour and a diverse range of sizes (from 36-54) characterise this on-the-pulse French label, which is designed for ladies with character.

STOCK SERVICE AND FORWARD ORDER COLLECTIONS

T-STUDIO THERAPY

Sizes 10–18 & Plus Sizes 42–52 Accessories: Legging, Tights and Fashion Jewellery also in stock.

This popular label’s collections boast a riot of trendy colours and highquality materials which result in a sophisticated elegance.

CHRISTOPHER WREN CLOTHING COMPANY LTD.

SATHIA

Christopher Wren House Unit 43, Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24

Elegant cuts and styles give this covetable collection the elegance and refinement that make Sathia suitable for every occasion. One-colour knitwear is skilfully mixed with print dresses, tops and skirts in a perfect blend where the customer is part of it.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

Tel 01-429 5039 christopherwren@eircom.net www.christopherwren.ie

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CHRISTOPHER WREN Clothing Company Ltd.

Invites you to view their SS 2015 Ranges Showing at Fashion Coming Together. Open Sunday August 17th.

www.pausecafe.fr

www.tstudiotherapy.com

www.sathia.com

www.missingjohnny.com

www.eroke.it

www.savageculture.com

CHRISTOPHER WREN Clothing Company Ltd.,

CHRISTOPHER WREN HOUSE, UNIT 43 FASHION CITY, BALLYMOUNT, DUBLIN 24

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ChristopherWrenClothingCoLtd

Tel: 00 353 1 429 5039 Email: christopherwren@eircom.net www.christoperwren.ie

Find us on Twittter Christopher Wren@WrenChristopher

showtalk

showtalk FOOTWEAR ROADSHOW 18-22 AUGUST, VARIOUS LOCATIONS

THE DUBLIN SHOE & BAG SHOW 14-16 SEPTEMBER, DUBLIN

The popular Footwear Roadshow will be exhibiting at a number of central locations throughout Ireland between 18-22 August, 2014.

The latest edition of the popular Dublin Shoe & Bag Show will, once again, be held at the The Camden Court Hotel in Dublin 2.

A number of leading Irish footwear agents will be attending and displaying their SS15 collections. Show organiser Johnny Woolfson’s Hogl, Panama Jack and Vidorreta Espadrilles brands will be on show, while Catherine Byrne will be showing collections from the likes of Wonders, Think! and Tiger Bear Republic.

Taking place from Sunday 14 September through to Tuesday 16 September, the three-day show will see a host of prestigious brands exhibiting their SS15 collections.

Other brands showing include Fly London, Dr Martens, GRS Footwear and Rockport.

Premium brands already confirmed for the show include Hogl, Panama Jack, Vidorreta Espadrilles, Smith & Canova, Moda in Pelle and Hispanitas.

MOMAD METROPOLIS 12-14 SEPTEMBER, MADRID

“This is now a really important fair for our market as it falls after GDS and MICAM and will provide buyers with a very clear picture of what the key trends are for SS15,” says organiser Johnny Woolfson.

Momad Metropolis will strengthen its range of swimwear fashion at its forthcoming September edition.

The upcoming trade show, which is organised by IFEMA and will take place from 12-14 September, will bring together the latest ideas for summer 2015 from a selection of outstanding brands that specialise in swimwear fashion.

Further details at johnnywoolfson@eircom.net or on +353 (0) 87 654 6000

PREMIERE VISION PLURIEL 16–18 SEPTEMBER, PARIS The upcoming edition of Premiere Vision Pluriel, which kicks off on 16 September at the Parc d’Expositions de Paris Nord, Villepinte, will boast a total of six shows along with complementary activities and proposals, and is said to be one of the most comprehensive and creative offerings in the industry.

The team behind the autumn edition feels that it will mark a real turning point for Premier Vision Pluriel. For the first time since it began in 2005, Première Vision Pluriel is now managed entirely by a single organiser: Première Vision - a world first for the industry.

After having welcomed 63,000 visitors in September 2013 and nearly 62,000 last February, Première Vision is poised once again to demonstrate that it is the leading event for all key international fashion players.

Amongst the firms taking part in the Swimwear Fashion Section will be Spanish brands Bloomers & Bikini, Arena Negra and the up-and-coming Tartaruga. Alongside the Spanish brands, collections from Argentina’s Swimdays and Brazil’s Tropical Brasil will also be on show.

A wide variety of exhibitors including spinners, weavers, accessory makers, design studios, tanners and garment manufacturers will join thousands of visitors, buyers and accessory and fashion brand designers. The exhibitors are looking to gain in visibility and develop solid business relationships, while the visitors will be hoping to find inspiration and innovative collections to make their products stand out.

Local and international companies such as Spain’s Sauwy and Mexico’s 98 Coast Avenue will also represent children and men’s swimwear fashion at the trade show.

As well as these swimwear collections, Momad Metropolis will present the latest trends in clothing fashion, footwear and accessories from the youth fashion, urban fashion and high-range fashion segments, not to mention the latest ideas from a selection of children’s and men’s fashion brands.

This third staging of Momad Metropolis will also coincide with the trade fairs Intergift, Bisutex and MadridJoya, as well as with Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, in terms of its dates and venue. This grand event will turn Feria de Madrid into the most comprehensive global showcase for fashion and trends in Southern Europe, one where trade visitors can gain a firsthand insight into the latest ideas under the headings of clothing, footwear, accessories, fashion jewellery, exclusive jewellery, gifts and decoration; ideas that are likely to set the trend throughout the S/S 15 Season.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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SHOES

SHOE.COM GMBH & CO. KG | MEMBER OF WORTMANN-GROUP David O‘Mahony | Phone: +353 (0)872 66 51 74 | david.omahony@soliver-shoes.com | www.soliver-shoes.com Maynooth | 18th - 20th August • Limerick | 25th - 26th August • Athlone | 27th August • Galway | 1st - 2nd September Sligo | 3rd - 4th September • Coleraine | 8th September • Waterford | 10 th - 11th September

showtalk

showtalk reviews LATEST EDITION OF PITTI IMMAGINE UOMO RECORDS INCREASE

Raw Footwear all took part. Several newly-added exhibitors included Havaianas and Replay Footwear.

‘Studio – The Premium Note’ offered a showcase for upmarket brands such as Floris van Bommel, Moma, Pantanetti, Pura Lopez and See by Chloe.

First timers included Anthony Miles, Barbour Footwear, Blauer, Porsche Design and Silvano Lattanzi.

The 86th edition of Pitti Immagine Uomo, which took place in June, saw the fair being officially opened by Italy’s new Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi, himself a former mayor of Florence.

Pitti Uomo covers a large part of all that menswear has to offer, from classic to urban and avant-garde, and the show is the key event for international menswear buyers, whether they are visiting existing suppliers or seeking new ones.

The Fashion Blogger Runway Show, which was organised in co-operation with the online magazine Styleranking, hosted the first-ever runway show staged by bloggers. And to cement the importance of bloggers to the fashion industry, there was a special event organised at Fashion Blogger Café entitled Shoedition. More than 100 bloggers with a penchant for shoes and accessories participated in the programme, which was filled with presentations, workshops and sweepstakes by and with bloggers.

Overall, a record-breaking 1,165 collections were presented at Pitti Uomo and Pitti W (womenswear pre-collections) with exhibition space in very short supply.

Numerous press conferences and briefings took place over the three-day event, with thought-provoking contributions from the Federal Association of the German Footwear and Leather Goods Industry, the World Footwear, China’s Shoe City and Peter Kaiser who provided information on his e-commerce strategy in a brief live demo and presentation followed by a panel discussion.

The organisers’ official figures show a 5% increase in buyer attendance compared with the previous summer edition, bringing the buyer attendance to 19,000. The number of stores represented was up 2% from an evergrowing number of countries from five continents, with the international turnout exceeding 7,700 buyers.

Lectures and Seminars were also commonplace and in high demand. Trend Info by TextilWirtschaft magazine posed a multitude of sartorial questions: If the skirt is making a comeback, how about teaming it up with a pair of Oxfords? High-heeled sandals? Or even sneakers? Trousers are still slim but not quite as skinny. Are pumps going to be more important next spring?

Trendy men are wearing suits. How about a pair of classic brogues with that? Or slip-ons for a nice summerly contrast? Answers were provided by Gudrun Allstädt and Simone Reiner.

GDS DÜSSELDORF, 30 JULY - 1 AUGUST 2014

SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH FOR TWO NEW AREAS AT CIFF For the first time ever, Germany’s hugely popular GDS started with a guided press walk designed to present selected exhibitor highlights to journalists. Amongst other thing, journalists were treated to special product presentations and press events as well as feature fashion shows such as the Studio show Belles Rebelles, which was attended by German model, actress and ballet dancer Eveline Hall who made runway debut at the tender age of 65.

The stars came out in their droves at GDS this summer with Gossip singer Beth Ditto performing at the opening party for invited guests, which took place the night before the official start of the fair. While she shied away from press interviews, she managed to wow the many guests with her incredible stage presence and energy.

The SS15 edition of the Copenhagen International Fashion Fair (CIFF), which took place from 3-6 August, saw the popular show present two new design driven areas: Sleek and Lab.

The fair was not light on libation either. Piccadilly presented its new 2015 Spring/Summer collection at a casual cocktail reception In another first time for GDS, the fair was divided into three major themed worlds: Studio, Highstreet and Pop Up. Each world created its own cosmos – with a matching design and a fitting ambiance.

Proving very popular with exhibitors and visitors alike, the new areas serve as alternative spaces to the acclaimed Crystal Hall and played host a selection of the most innovative brands of the moment.

In ‘Highstreet – The Modern Pulse’, visitors discovered the greatest diversity of brands, from contemporary to athletic to traditional. GDS firsttimers here included Gant Footwear, Lacoste, Marc O’Polo, Naturalizer, Noë, Ricosta and Viking. Bull & Hunt, Hüftgold/Mischmasch Berlin and Wou Wou were among the new accessories brands at GDS. Established GDS exhibitors that moved to Highstreet included Birkenstock, Camel Active, Clarks, Skechers and s.Oliver,

Key names included amongst the design-driven and forward-looking luxury brands in Sleek were YDE, Mark Kenly Domino Tan, Raguel Allegra, MUUSE, Freya Dalsjö, Lommé, Ganni, American Vintage and Each x Other.

In Lab, meanwhile, which showcased forward-looking, young emerging talents, street wear and design-oriented brands, the brand mix included Art Comes First, Trine Lindegaard, Tom Wood, Pleasant, Martone Cycling and Armoire d’homme.

In ‘Pop-Up – The Urban Groove’, visitors experienced street wear along with young, innovative collections. Dr. Martens, El Naturalista and G-Star

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

“The purpose of the new areas is to strengthen the brands represented by CIFF,” explained Kristian W Andersen, design and fashion director at CIFF.

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All important trends.

All strong brands. Straight at the beginning of the season.

In a first-class environment.

DÜSSELDORF 4 – 6 FEB 2015 WWW.GDS-ONLINE.COM SUPPORTED BY:

vox pop

The Summer Sales

Once, sales meant camping out to find that the only thing remaining was a pair of tangerine-coloured Terylene flares. These days, no store wants old stock on the shop floor, so the bargains are good and the clothes (usually) even better. Little wonder, then, that this season’s summer sales were ones to remember for all the right reasons.

SIOBHÁN O’DONOVAN OWNER OF DIFFUSION WEAR OLD COURT, RIVERSTOWN, GLANMIRE, CO. CORK

PETER DOHERTY OWNER OF LEE DOHERTY MENSWEAR MAIN ST CASTLEBAR, CO. MAYO

SUZANNE CHAMBERS OWNER AT G NINE BOUTIQUE ENNIS SHOPPING CENTRE, FRANCIS STREET, CO. CLARE

The current summer sales are said to be the most successful in 10 years. Would you agree?

The current summer sales are said to be the most successful in 10 years. Would you agree?

The current summer sales are said to be the most successful in 10 years. Would you agree?

Yes, I would agree. In fact, sales this year in general have been quite strong.

Yes, absolutely. I think the same could be said for business in general – things really have picked up over the past 12 months.

Yes, I would definitely agree – we have been extremely busy throughout our sales.

When did your summer sales commence?

We went into our sales at the end of June.

When did your summer sales commence?

When did your summer sales commence?

We started our sales in mid-August.

We started our sales quite early this year – the first week of June.

Was this earlier or later than last year?

It was a little bit later than last year, which in itself is indicative of a sales growth in general.

Many stores used to be forced into early sales to keep afloat; hopefully, that’s a thing of the past.

Was this earlier or later than last year?

It was actually a full month / five-weeks later than last year.

Our sales will last about five weeks in total.

It was a few weeks earlier than last year.

How long will your summer sales last?

How long will your summer sales last?

How long will your summer sales last?

Was this earlier or later than last year?

Because we started later, we will continue with the sales until the end of August.

We have no cut-off point – it just depends on when the stock runs out.

What proved successful for you in the sales?

What proved successful for you in the sales?

Funnily enough, our non-sale autumn stock has been doing really well. Sales bring customers into the store and, once in, they were drawn to the new collections.

Have you noticed any differences in customer spending patterns over the past year?

Definitely. Customers’ purchases are much more measured and considered than ever before. This pattern leads the store to ensure that the collections we stock are high quality and good value.

What proved successful for you in the sales?

Formal wear is doing really well. The sale of suits is way up on last year.

Have you noticed any differences in customer spending patterns over the past year?

The biggest difference that we have noticed is that there is a move away from price being king. Customers are no longer gravitating towards cheap items, but instead looking for quality once again and they are willing to pay extra.

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We have great discounts across the board so all items are proving popular. We have 50% off our Mother-Of-The-Bride outfits, so there’s high demand for them. In general, formal wear is doing really well, particularly dresses for the races. Our casual clothing is selling brilliantly, too, on account of their great reductions.

Have you noticed any differences in customer spending patterns over the past year?

I’m delighted to say that customers are now much more positive, which translates into much stronger sales.

DEE WARD STAFF AT KELLY MENSWEAR ATHLONE RD, LONGFORD, CO. LONGFORD

ANNE SHARKEY MANAGER AT THE COPE MAIN STREET, DUNGLOE, CO. DONEGAL

JENNIFER MCEVOY CO-OWNER OF MCEVOYS BACKHOUSE SHOPPING CENTRE, CLANBRASSIL STREET, DUNDALK, CO. LOUTH

The current summer sales are said to be the most successful in 10 years. Would you agree?

The current summer sales are said to be the most successful in 10 years. Would you agree?

Yes, definitely. We have noticed that, in general, business over the past few months has been strong and consistent. The summer season is very popular for us on account of all the weddings.

Yes. Even though we have just started our sales, we definitely feel that the positive upward trend will continue throughout our summer sales and after.

The current summer sales are said to be the most successful in 10 years. Would you agree?

So far, our sales have been going really well for us. I’m not sure if they are our most successful in the past 10 years, but we are definitely happy.

When did your summer sales commence?

When did your summer sales commence?

We actually don’t have summer sales. The only sales we have are those following Christmas.

Was this earlier or later than last year?

We didn’t have any summer sales last year either.

How long will your summer sales last?

We don’t have sales but, despite this, footfall has been extremely busy.

What proved successful for you in the sales?

Our main business is in suits and we have noticed a sales growth throughout. We make made-to-measure suits as well and this manufacturing aspect of our business is proving to be quite strong at the moment, too.

Have you noticed any differences in customer spending patterns over the past year?

While it seems that we have turned a corner, customers still tend to be price-conscious but still wanting excellent quality.

We always begin our sales following the Mary from Dungloe Festival. The festival is hugely popular, attracting many tourists as well as bringing locals home from abroad. We go into sales just after the end of the festival. Before that, we would have mid-season sales as well as having a rail dedicated to discounted items throughout the year.

Was this earlier or later than last night year?

We always begin our sales just after the festival.

When did your summer sales commence?

We started our sales in mid-July.

Was this earlier or later than last night year?

It was actually around the same time as last year.

How long will your summer sales last?

Our summer sales last for a month in general.

What proved successful for you in the sales?

How long will your summer sales last?

It depends. We see how things go after the first few days and then continue with even greater reductions. We also sell online and have a specific discount store beside our main store.

What proved successful for you in the sales?

The weather has actually determined what has been successful. Because it has been so good, things like t-shirts, shorts and light dresses have been doing extremely well.

All of our ladieswear collections have been doing really for us.

Have you noticed any differences in customer spending patterns over the past year?

Our customers are still keen to get good value for money without sacrificing on quality. This was something that emerged during the recession and it’s a pattern that has continued to this day.

Have you noticed any differences in customer spending patterns over the past year?

Even though the start of the year was slow, once April arrived, things really picked up and have continued to do so. Over all, there is a sense that there is an improvement in customer spending and confidence.

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Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

feature

vogueagencies One of Ireland’s leading fashion agencies, Vogueagencies specialises in contemporary ladies’ fashions and represents a number of leading international brands that boast a very quick delivery time.

The company’s various labels, which include Street One, Comma and s.Oliver, all create 12 collections a year, which can be delivered to retailers at ultra-competitive prices. New articles can be delivered weekly, ensuring that stock remains fresh and on-trend at all times. www.vogueagencies.ie Tel: +353 (0) 86 385 2156; email: vogueagencies@gmail.com

MORE & MORE More & More’s collections – which are updated each month to guarantee freshness in stores - blends effortless casual style with chic elegance, resulting in trendy yet timeless fashion for the modern woman.

Trendy touches are added with a clever use of constructive surfaces, which make innovative styles even more distinctive, and embellishment.

COMMA Celebrating relaxed styles that are always feminine, Comma’s designs range from smart to casual to business-like, and are characterised by diverse silhouettes, modern materials and exciting prints and patterns.

CECIL Best known for their super-stretch soft jeans, Cecil’s designs – which range from tops and scarves to shirts, knitwear and jackets - combine fashion with comfort and fit. High-quality fabric mixes, beautiful colours and stunning digital prints characterise each collection.

s.OLIVER ​A progressive, urban fashion brand, s.Oliver offers real fashion for real people​. In addition to ​classic fashion lines, ​ it offers 12 collections per year and ​​combine​ s​feminine and sporty looks. The ​label’s f​ocus is on comfort and mix​-​and -​ ​ match programs​, allowing the wearer to create the perfect outfit for any occasion ​using any of the 150+ styles per collection.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

STREET ONE A trendy contemporary label with special emphasis on creativity, Street One creates stylish yet wearable and undeniably feminine fashion for the modern woman, making it a popular choice for those who place value on quality and fit.

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comma

CECIL

vogueagencies www.vogueagencies.ie Tel: +353 (0) 86 385 2156; email: vogueagencies@gmail.com Unit 11 Fashion City, M50 Business Park, Ballymount, Dublin 24.

feature

Material World

Photography: Murillo Medina

It wasn’t just football that lured the world’s eyes to Brazil this summer. As 32 countries battled it out for the coveted sporting prize, the host nation managed to find some time to showcase their talents, albeit of a sartorial nature, to designers, manufacturers, buyers and journalists from all corners of the globe. Futura dusted off its passport and ventured over to San Paulo to attend Inspiramais, a three-day fashion exhibition that, rather uniquely, focuses on the journey, rather than the end product

Sample fabrics inspired by rain

In July, Inspiramais, a biannual trade exhibition that started in 2010 as a platform to promote the benefits of Brazilian design and innovation, welcomed members of the fashion industry, both from home and abroad, to get an insight into the genesis of creative ideas that can then be easily translated into world-class collections.

This edition deftly showcased the practical benefits of inspiration, innovation and creativity to the industry, presenting exciting approaches on how design concepts can be applied to a product. This approach sets Inspiramais apart from most other trade events and is an extraordinary resource for anyone with an interest in production methods related to the fashion industry.

INSPIRATION FORUM Throughout the months leading up to the July exhibition, creative

exhibition, we saw how the material manufacturers translated these concepts into a cornucopia of colours, fabrics and designs, some boasting literal representations of nature and her inhabitants, while others were infused with more subtle and delicate impressions.

All these materials went on display during Inspiramais where visitors helped select the twenty most impressive designs. The winning companies were presented with a trophy and their respective booths were labelled with a sticker so that visitors could identify the companies that showed the greatest originality in the development of their products.

workshops and in-depth presentations were made by the design centre at Assintecal, one of the event’s organisers, to material manufacturers across the country on how to develop new products, based on the research carried out. Called the Inspiration Forum, it is the jewel in the exhibition’s crown and the theme for winter 2015 was something that people in Ireland are well accustomed to: rain. In a country as vast as Brazil, rain is received in different ways, depending on the region. In some places like the arid Sertao Nordestino, it is synonymous with renewal and abundance, ensuring food and joy, while in big cities that are rarely prepared for it - rain can be perceived as a sort of punishment leading to chaos and disquiet.

BRAZILIAN REFERENCES

At Inspiramais, these manufacturing companies then presented their work based on their responses to the design centre’s research and findings. At the

As an extension of this creative work, one of the other prevalent aspects of the exhibition was encouraging manufactures to use not only Brazilian nature as a source

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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of inspiration for developing materials, but also its culture. Music, dance, folklore festivals, foods and architecture were drawn upon as starting points for new design for components.

LEATHER PREVIEW Among the other projects presented at Inspiramais was the Leather Preview one of the most anticipated events by researchers and designers from the fashion production industry. Brazil is the world’s second largest leather producer and third largest exporter. The preview involved some 20 tanneries, each of which were in the process of developing a skin for summer 2016. The preview also introduced the colour palette for the coming seasons, featuring a preliminary showing of ten colours.

MANUFACTURING But the focus was not just on the creative side of material manufacturing. Entitled Mix by Brazil, this project investigated the labour and individual skills needed within the industry and sought to encourage the use of techniques that combine craftwork and design as a way to minimise

Shoe soles using rain as inspiration

the environmental and social impact of manufacturing. The results were presented and it found that, through the crafts, it is possible to find creative and innovative solutions to avoid the waste of raw materials and allowing the fashion industry to embrace sustainability.

BUYING AND SELLING Another important element of the Inspiramais exhibition was getting Brazilian designs to reach a wider audience. Called the Buyer Project, foreign buyers and Brazilian component suppliers held meetings to encourage local companies to enter the foreign market through export incentives, thereby boosting the presence of Brazilian materials around the world.

Colombians, Peruvians, and Koreans from the footwear, handbag and accessories manufacturers were among the guests to take part in this initiative.

FRANCA SHOE FAIR Running alongside the exhibition, Franca, an international shoes and accessories fashion fair, took place with over 800 exhibitors presenting their latest collections to 60,000 visitors. Brazil is said to produce

ove r 900 million pairs of shoes annually and the value of production is almost â‚Ź10 billion. Known as the most profitable business event of the year for the Brazilian leatherfootwear industry, Franca welcomed visitors from Italy, Portugal, Spain and India.

BACK TO BASICS Inspiramais is a superb exhibition that is sure to sow a multitude of seeds in the minds of the creative players within the fashion industry. A country that boasts such vitality and energy as Brazil is always going to promote inspiration for designers and manufacturers and this exhibition perfectly celebrates this.

Inspiramais is organised by Assinteca, the Brazilian Association of Companies of Components for Leather, Footwear and Manufactured Goods; Footwear Components by Brazil; and the CICN (Centre of Brazilian Tanning Industries).

Buying and selling at Inspiramais Accessories using rain as a starting point

Inspiramais Forum

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Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

trends - ladies’ SS15

Ladies’ Casualwear Every season throws up its fair share of trends and SS15 is no different when it comes to ladies’ casualwear. Key colours, stand-out looks and predominant fabrics – all these – and much more – are amongst the season’s principal trends.

TEXTURE

ALL MESHED UP

With texture having been one of the defining trends on the AW14 catwalks, it’s heartening to see the fashion industry readying itself for the demand onslaught with experimental techniques for the SS15 seasons.

Mesh fabrics were another textural trend seen at Première Vision.

Having seen huge success from the sports luxe trend of recent years, the update here focus on cut-outs, guipure, laser-cutting and perforations.

Many of the outstanding ladieswear collections displayed wonderful innovation in sheers. Super lightweight fabrics play into the trend, with polyester and polyamides creating transparency, while jacquards use a mix of solid and sheer patterning to give an expensive feel.

SEERSUCKER STRIPES A return to an old classic, ladies’ casualwear is bracing itself for the return to favour of seersucker. The look is anything but fusty, though; the Americana puckered-cotton fabric transcends its preppy origins to appear on fashionable clothing, shoes and accessories for SS15. Why not (seer)suck it and see?

Faber

BROAD LEISURE STRIPES An extension of colourblocking, broad leisure stripes appeared in numerous collections on the SS15 runways.

Whether in muted black-and-white or navy-and-white, or in more colourful alternatives, this is a trend that is hard to miss.

Marissa Vujnovich

Mama B

Eterna

ARTISANAL This trend is rich in its materials, colours and details as it features geometric patterns, border designs, a combination of bright colours and neutrals, stripes, embellishment, crafts, embroidery, 3D florals and rich materials such as lace, suede, leather, eyelet and jacquard.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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ladies’ SS15 - trends Myrine

VEGETAL GROWTH While pop brights, summer pastels and rich shades are typically dominant in the majority of SS15 collections, there’s no shortage of lush shades of evergreen summers either. Green in its various guises adds a calming touch to many a collection, proving that going green is a fashionable, as well as an ecological, choice.

Comma

Camel Active

Georgede

BLACK & WHITE

Comma

Georgede

Will fashion ever tire of this classic combo? It seems unlikely, certainly not for SS15 in any case. Whether alone or in combination with soft shades like petal pink and pastel blue, this powerful pairing will be found on many of the SS15 season’s best-dressed ladies.

Faber

AVANT POP Arguably the most colourful and energetic trend for SS15, this features bold prints and bright colours such as tangerine, royal, bright yellow and Kelly green, which appear most frequently in nylon, stretch jersey, sequins, double knit jerseys, and PVC.

Hajo

LARGER THAN LIFE As its name suggest, this is a hard-to-miss trend that utilises oversized graphic photographic prints in noisy colours.

This trend also offers criss-cross tops, boxy tops and jackets, sateen crop tops and embellished dresses.

Gollehaug

Pause Café

Michéle

Seidensticker

Gerke

Momentum Georgede

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Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

t

trends - men’s SS15

Men’s Casualwear Flicking a proverbial V to convention and opting to tread a daring path, menswear at the recent editions of Milan Fashion Week and London Collections: Men (LC:M) opted to tread a more daring path than in recent years, unveiling a host of trends that are expected to influence the forthcoming SS15 season.

Whether it’s taking a regal stance in striking red, walking the walk in buff-surfer style or playing it cool and casual with a relaxed, rumpled lounging look, this truly is a season where the emphasis is on serious style with a lad-back approach.

LINE ‘EM UP Whether it’s thick vertical Bengal and awning stripes or thin horizontal pin ones, there’s no avoiding the fact that stripes are in for summer 2015. The coolest combinations at Milan appeared in Gucci’s nod-tonautical navy and white, and monochrome at Emporio Armani.

COOL COMFORT Move over skinny jeans; it’s all about comfort wear for SS15 – at least if the designers at Bottega Veneta have their way. The label’s catwalk show featured everything from sportswear-inspired headbands and drop-crotch long johns to baggy shorts with knitwear.

While the styling may be undeniably casual unbuttoned, rumpled, slouchy and untucked –this is a look that is artfully dishevelled rather than scruffy.

Think cool. Think comfort. Think covetable.

London’s SS15 catwalks were equally awash with stripes, most notably of the pinstripe variety. J.W.Anderson, for instance, featured blouse-like striped shirts and silk trousers, while E. Tautz reinforced the stripe as the motif of the season with a sharp selection of broad-width striped trousers, coats, shorts and tops. Tiger of Sweden, meanwhile, offered its own inimitable Scandi take on the look with is dark streamline suiting.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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men’s SS15 - trends FLASH THE FLESH

ALL HAIL DENIM

It hasn’t yet got a patch on the less-is-more vibe permeating the ladies’ collections but SS15 menswear is showing some serious skin and gearing up to get sexy for summer. More than one collection flashed some toned torsos, while even the usually more demure labels paraded bare chests on the catwalks. Case in point?

Missoni, whose styled surfers pounded the runway in shorts and knitted gilets.

Yes, denim has been a mainstay of men’s trends, year in, year out. So what makes it a key trend for SS15, then? Well, when every blue chip brand from Gucci (whose paintspattered jeans were a conversation point for Milan Fashion Week) and Prada (whose top-stitch denim classics collection boasts everything from jackets, blazers, coats and jeans in trusty denim) to Tom Ford is embracing the perennially popular fabric, there’s little doubt that it’s set to dominate next summer.

VESTS ON CHESTS V for victory? More like V for vest – the skimpy garment will be making waves for SS15, evolving significantly from it traditional out-of-sight guise.

Forget the show-off-the-muscles vests of recent seasons, though; for 2015 it’s a more modest underwear-as-outerwear approach, which was epitomised at Calvin Klein Collection, with vests being styled over T-shirts or double layered.

RED RIOT Yes, that’s right: red. Running riot at London Collections: Men (LC:M) and lording it in Milan, rich and racy red is poised to assume the mantle of accent colour for next summer.

Looking for proof? Look no further than Dolce & Gabbana, whose matador-inspired collection put its full weight behind fiery flamenco red, showing it in suiting, oversized hoodies and shirting, and wrapping up their show with a tailoring finale in a paint chart of undeniably fashionable red hues.

It wasn’t just the American designer who hailed the look, though. Over at Ermenegildo Zegna, models took to the catwalk wearing what appeared to be pulled-down jersey vests, with the armholes creating a braces-hanging-down effect; while the headline-grabbing show at Versace even saw the dreaded string vest made a comeback.

POWERFUL PRINTS Whether it was in-your-face florals or discreet abstracts, a key aspect for menswear in SS15 is the pervasive presence of prints. A neat way to inject some personality into an otherwise conventional outfit, prints in all guises were out in force on the men’s catwalks.

exotic leaves and blooms taking on bolder, more oversized forms than seen in previous seasons. Topman Design, for instance, applied bright daisy patterns to its jumpers, tops and shirting, with this statement motif carried through to trousers and home-spun knitted tanks.

Thankfully it’s a look that is accessible and attainable, rather than simply aspirational. Marni’s scribbled floral print, which cut a dash in Milan, looks equally at home whether on a shirt or on a pair of beach shorts.

The use of yellow florals and the oversized nature of the blooms reinforced the collection’s 1970s psychedelic feel.

Over in London, meanwhile, foliage of all kinds was a strong feature across many collections for LC:M SS15, with

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Elsewhere, Hentsch Man’s oversized foliage print was used cleverly on shorts, trousers and bombers, with contrast base tones giving the pattern a statement edge. Even British label Dunhill, which is renowned for its impeccable formal wear, got in on the floral act, showing foliage-patterned Aloha shirts and seaweed print swim shorts.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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style files - footwear

footwear styles SS15 CAPRICE KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Balance and harmony combined with lightness, flexibility and sportiness are all key in this SS15 collection.

Casual ballerina shoes, comfortable moccasins, as well as light summer boots and ultra-low sandals are the fashion highlights of this season.

PALETTE: In addition to subtle, natural tones and soft pastels, red, blue, black and white serve as a contrast.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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style files - footwear GERRY WEBER KEY LOOKS / PIECES: The SS15 collection radiates a relaxed elegance. Sandals, ballerinas and loafers made with soft suede or nappa leather deserve mention, as do the barely ankle-high Chelsea boots made of suede.

PALETTE: Rich and luxurious whites, neutral tones, and brown variations. Fashionable feature colours include yellow, cobalt and hues of red.

MENBUR KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Renowned for their elegant and glamorous evening shoes and co-ordinating handbags, Menbur – which is represented in Ireland by Aubrey Woolfson – creates designs that marry form and function, providing comfort of wear while scoring highly on aesthetics.

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Contact: Adare Brands Limited Tel. +353 86 81 64 003 ks@adarebrands.com Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014 WWW.MEPHISTO.COM

style files - footwear

MEPHISTO KEY LOOKS / PIECES: An impressive men’s collection sees the introduction of more formal styles. Goodyear-welted shoes ensure craftsmanship while attention to detail remains key.

The ladies’ collection, meanwhile, typically fuses form and function. Designs for the active range, Allrounder, are vibrant and trendy with a comfortable fit. All contain the Mephitex breathable lining, which guarantees that footwear remains waterproof yet breathable.

PALETTE: An extensive palette utilises everything from black, brown and navy to rich reds and tans.

REMUS UOMO KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Designed as the perfect complement to the clean, sharp tailoring and off-duty casuals, which are at the core of brand, Remus Uomo’s impressive collection offers quality shoes and boots in leather and suede, making for strong, timeless styles.

PALETTE: The range is infused with accents of strong colour and finished with distinctive refined detailing – ideal for men who take a serious attitude towards fashion.

S.OLIVER KEY LOOKS / PIECES: s.Oliver’s ladieswear range finds its inspiration in sport with round and slim shapes being commonplace. Pointed shapes can also be seen in their ballerinas and summer boots, while wedges and flat shapes can also be found in this collection.

The statement of the men’s collection, meanwhile, is geared towards those who love and live a casual and free lifestyle.

Sporty, uncomplicated and clean shoes prevail. Runners, in all their variations, are the most important type of shoe this season.

PALETTE: Important colours for ladies are light grey, various shades of blue, turquoise, white, gold, silver and powder. Apart from black, pepper and nut also play a big role here.

In the men’s range, sandy shades make up the trendy segment.

Elsewhere, cognac, black, white, grey and navy dominate.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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style files - footwear TAMARIS KEY LOOKS / PIECES: An eclectic mix of fashionable footwear for AW14 takes in everything from chic and elegant to rocky and rugged. Fashionable options abound in cool booties, pointed pumps and a new take on overknee boots.

PALETTE: Black plays the main role, refined with patent leather accents or subtly complemented by dark Bordeaux.

VAN DAL KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Summer is not traditionally the season to go dark but Van Dal bucks the trend with black being predominant.

For SS15, Van Dal has also introduced blockheeled styles all featuring a metallic gold trim.

PALETTE: Aside from black, white, gold, sugary sweet pink, rose and almond also feature. With specialist lizard prints and suede materials, this collection is very much on-trend.

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Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

Happy Feet With a prime location in the heart of Arklow and a comprehensive footwear offering, could Happy Feet live up to its upbeat moniker?

Our undercover shopper paid a visit to find out.

LOCATION

DÉCOR

One of three Happy Feet stores in Ireland – the others being in Newbridge’s Whitewater Shopping Centre and in Navan town centre – the shop has a prime position in the popular Bridgewater Shopping Centre in Arklow.

Simple yet effective, Happy Feet uses its various stands and surfaces in such a way that it cleverly transforms the product into the décor. The emphasis is on bright colours and clean, clear display, allowing the footwear to shine.

A small number of footwear retailers are located in the vicinity but Happy Feet’s diverse offering gives it a distinct USP.

An additional touch is provided by the inclusion of a selection of toys for children and catalogues for adults, which helps turn a visit to the shop into one that is as fun, comfortable and relaxed as possible.

WINDOW DISPLAY Taking advantage of full-height glazing, an attractive window display makes an excellent first impression, catching passer-bys’ eyes and inviting them to take a closer look. A selection of brightly coloured shoes demands attention while clever use of point-of-sale stands provides a snapshot of some of the brands stocked within.

Happy Feet’s window displays are, it turns out, a source of great pride, with the shop having won an award for best display in Whitewater Shopping Centre. When asked, the shop manager explained how Happy Feet always strives “to keep our window displays up-to-date on current trends such as our recent ‘fourth of July’ display. We keep as much colour as possible in the window to reflect the atmosphere we try to maintain in the store.”

FIRST IMPRESSIONS A cheerful smile on the faces of the shop’s unfailing friendly staff makes a great impression.

The shopper is put instantly at ease and made to feel welcome. The offer of help, should it be required, is made but there is no pressure to purchase; visitors are left to browse away without feeling the breath of staff down their neck. Top marks!

When assistance was requested, the member of staff engaged proved to be particularly knowledgeable on the shop’s brands. A query regarding sizing in the FitFlop collection, for instance, was handled adeptly, revealing an excellent knowledge of the product and a real flair for customer service.

LAYOUT & DISPLAY With so many brands available, a well-thought out layout is imperative and, thankfully, Happy Feet succeeds admirably. The shop is divided by each brand in its own wall cabinet, which results in an easy-on-the-eye and, crucially, easy-to-follow layout.

Again, the emphasis is on quality and simplicity: cabinets are plain white and incorporate glass shelving and fluorescent lighting, which gives the product the ideal background for effective display.

THE STOCK A wonderfully diverse footwear mix spans everything from casual and fashion footwear to formal shoes and school and communion wear, and features designs from renowned brands such as FitFlop, Vans, Converse, DCs, Crocs, Lelli Kelly, Geox, Doc Martin, UGG and Tommy Hilfiger.

Sizes, meanwhile, run the gamut, from new born to adult size 13, while prices are multifarious, starting at just €19

VERDICT A round of applause to Happy Feet! This is a shop that really knows its clientele, delivers a high-quality product and is highly conscious of providing the customer with polite and attentive staff and a clean, well-designed shopping environment. A thoroughly flawless shopping experience all round.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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style files - ladieswear

ladieswear styles SS15 ANA SOUSA KEY LOOKS / PIECES: A highlight in Ana Sousa’s SS15 collection is their Magic Dress, a reversible garment that can be used over and over on both sides. Elsewhere, the new Aromatherapy T-shirt comes, rather interestingly, with a scent of jasmine, an essence known for providing a unique feeling of lightness and well being.

PALETTE: There is an abundance of colour throughout, notably fresh, summery pastels, as well as digital prints and chic patterns.

EVANNA KEY LOOKS / PIECES: New to Ireland, this young range of trendy ladies’ dresses, tops, tunics and knitwear is now available from stock at B & D Design at Fashion City. The collection is available in sizes 16-24 and offers elegance in casual and comfort dressing at competitive prices.

PALETTE: Evanna uses a wealth of colour and prints to produce captive new collections weekly. Detailed fabrics and designs are key to this brand, combined with their comfort fitting.

JACK MURPHY KEY LOOKS/PIECES: Vintage, heritage and timeless are key words when describing the SS15 collection. A stand out is the Alexandra Cotton Waterproof Coat, a clever twist on the practical parka style, and is both fashionable and fully weather-proof too.

PALETTE: This season’s colour palette incorporates a vast range of shades. Green, browns, navy, grey, pink, purple and red all feature prominently.

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Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

style files - ladieswear

LERROS KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Modern prints and a wealth of different looks with a sporty feminine twist are the focus of this AW14 collection with the dresses and skirts being further expanded. The jackets warrant particular attention since Lerros has given these a makeover.

PALETTE: Autumnal shades include brown, rosewood, blue, gold, Bordeaux and burned orange. The dominant prints are stripes and stars with leopard prints featuring on knitwear and jeans, while digital city prints are found on cardigans and shirts.

MY COLLECTION KEY LOOKS/PIECES: A stock range of dresses, separated and co-ordinates available from the Christopher Wren showroom and updated weekly, My Collection is designed exclusively by a team of designers that are passionate about fashion and current trends. Prices are ultra-competitive while sizes range from Small to XL. PALETTE: A fashionable compilation of seasonal brights and pretty pastels is accompanied by a helping of more sober tones, such as black and French navy.

PURPLEROSE KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Available at B & D Designs at Unit 10, Fashion City in Ballymount, Dublin 24, this well-established and keenly priced brand has compiled an extensive range of tops, tunics, dresses and knitwear for its AW14 range.

ZAND AMSTERDAM

Purplerose is available in sizes 16-24 and offers a fashion brand for the larger woman in a choice of styles, fabrics and designs.

With new styles constantly coming through, retailers can be assured of a variety of new styles every week.

KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Zand Amsterdam is a young innovative company who has introduced a fresh, funky and unique design to the world of women’s clothing. The foursided wrap skirt is playful, eye-catching and fun - the reversible design of the skirts allows women to celebrate their individuality and style.

PALETTE: The collection is available in all of the new season’s colours with a full stock service in place.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

PALETTE: These skirts showcase a rainbow of colours and quirky patterns, from vibrant oranges and reds to more subdued shades of black and brown – and everything in between.

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style files - menswear

menswear styles SS15 BAUMLER KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Clean silhouettes and highquality tailoring with great attention to detail are fundamental to the SS15 collection. Throughout the luxurious Purple Label, intricate details can be found in the classic tailoring where the proportions and shapes are perfectly balanced. Elsewhere, the Black Label, which is aimed at the businessman, celebrates clean and sharp monochrome tailoring, while the collection from the contemporary White Label boasts a fresh, maritime-inspired look.

COLOUR PALETTE: Throughout the Purple Label and Black Label, indigo, grey and red prevail, while the contemporary collection has a strong nautical flavour with rich shades of blue to the fore.

CAMEL ACTIVE BAGS KEY LOOKS / PIECES: An extensive SS15 bag collection, called the Vintage Travel Route, is a result of mixing and playing with different materials. With their unfussy looks and high-quality craftsmanship, the bags are a clear statement of authenticity and uncompromising quality.

COLOUR PALETTE: Strong, masculine colours are used in this collection – brown, black and green are evident throughout.

ETERNA KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Themes, which convey a carefree, live-forthe-moment lifestyle, coupled with that familiar commitment to quality and workmanship perfection best describe Eterna’s SS15 shirt collection. The vitality and fun of the coast is evident throughout.

COLOUR PALETTE: The sea and the beach have inspired the colours for this range: aqua; turquoise; emerald; peach Melba; fuchsia, and nectarine all sing from the designs.

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Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

style files - menwear JACK MURPHY KEY LOOKS / PIECES: A SS15 collection that is all about looking to the past for inspiration and capturing choice vintage influences to create evocative, emotive pieces with infinite charm and a real sense of ageless, organic style. A definite highlight includes the Cotton Waterproof category, which is stylish and handsome. Elsewhere, the lifestyle range is invigorated with some tactile cotton and cotton cashmere knitwear, and by numerous in-house designed checks and prints which feature in the shirt and jersey offerings.

COLOUR PALETTE: This season’s palette incorporates a vast range of shades, from rich, earthy greens and browns to regal navy and refined grey. Elsewhere, shades such as oceanic blue bring a refreshing twist.

LERROS KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Drawing inspiration from the pristine nature of Scandinavia and the idyllic landscapes of southern Sweden, the AW14 collection features shirts with web textures and all-over prints; jackets which are quilted, printed, washed and patched; and knitwear with a variety of innovative designs such as multi-coloured twists.

COLOUR PALETTE: Warm autumn shades such as Bordeaux and cinnamon, combined with modern pine green and blue and off-white, are dominant in the early season, while the later part features a host of neutral tones with various shades of grey.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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style files - menswear REMUS UOMO KEY LOOKS / PIECES: A SS15 collection that brings a relaxed cool to the fore and sees the rise of soft in the softer lines and refined silhouettes of our formal and soft tailoring. Garments are finished with a distinct elegant styling, which is prevalent throughout the collection, thereby creating a timeless look.

Structured linen blends, lightweight wools and washed cottons are key in soft tailoring, while fine gauge merino wools, Italian cottons, pique structures and cotton Oxfords are prominent in casualwear.

COLOUR PALETTE: Featured throughout the collection are bold blues, which are softened by quieter shades of sand, stone, grey and powder blue, and punctuated by accents of burgundy and khaki.

SKOPES KEY LOOKS / PIECES: Smart dressing with tailored jackets is the predominant trend in Skopes’ SS15 collection. Sharp British tailoring meets laidback Italian Riviera styling in a handsome suit range, while check blazers provide an elegant yet fashionable highlight elsewhere in the collection.

COLOUR PALETTE: Natural stones and browns, pastel blues and sage, strong navy blue in stripes and checks are just some of the colours and patterns on show. Suits remain blue-dominated, though more greys are beginning to emerge.

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Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

shopcall

Massimo

With city centre rents in Dublin often prohibitively high, retailer in the heart of town need to ensure they’re at the top of their game to continue trading.

But how does Massimo Menswear fare? Our undercover shopper paid an unscheduled visit to run the rule over the long-standing menswear store.

LOCATION Positioned on the corner of Dawson Street and South Anne Street, locations don’t come much more central. As a result, Massimo Menswear benefits from extensive – and almost continual – footfall. On the down side, competition from other menswear stores, whether high street chains or independents, such as nearby Alias Tom and Henry Jermyn, provides cutthroat competition. If ever there was a case of survival of the fittest, this is it.

FIRST IMPRESSION A Thursday afternoon finds Massimo Menswear a hub of activity. On paper, many of its customers should be preoccupied with soaking up the August sunshine, but in reality, it seems that the opposite is true.

In the space of our visit, two middle-aged customers get measured and kitted out in their new jazzy armour. One discovers that he has been wearing shirts and jackets a couple of sizes too big for him most of his adult life; the other reveals that he is being dragged to a wedding the following Saturday. While the thoughts of soggy vol-auvents and hour-long speeches might not be putting a smile on this customer’s face this afternoon, his brand new designer suit most certainly is.

This all goes to prove that while there have been many changes recently in how customers purchase clothes, notably online, Massimo Menswear reminds us that there will always be a need for that old-fashioned, in-the-flesh customer interaction.

STOCK Massimo Menswear has a wonderful variety of formal and contemporary clothing. The store is home to a wide-range of suits from celebrated international labels including Atelier Torino, Digel and P.V.H. In terms of shirts, well-known names on display include the Italian Delsiena and Puccini labels, while Alberto jeans and Frank Wright shoes are also well represented.

At the time of our visit, Massimo Menswear was in the middle of its popular summer sale, with huge discounts on offer – up to 70% on some suits and jackets. Perhaps it’s no surprise that so many fashion-conscious men were almost queuing out the door.

DÉCOR With its enviable location and dramatic exterior, Massimo Menswear has certainly made its mark on Dublin’s sartorial landscape. Inside, despite its

limited space, there is no shortage in choice with a multitude of suits and shirts on display, as well as a rainbow of colourful ties to be found. For some, it might be a little too compact and cluttered; for others, it will be like walking into a secret den where you’ll discover a treasure-trove of stylish regalia.

DISPLAY The shop has been extremely inventive when presenting its stock. It boasts a delightful display of ties and shirts, neatly lined up against two of its walls, while their vast array of suits stand proudly against the others.

The bust of a headless mannequin takes pride of place in the centre of the shop floor – which does the store something of an injustice, seeing as the store is more than equipped to dress you all the way from head to toe with their covetable collections.

STAFF Perhaps it’s a knock-on effect of the recession or maybe retailers are just pulling out all the stops to impress their customers, but the average standard of customer service in Irish shops has definitely been on the up.

This phenomenon is certainly apparent at Massimo Menswear – the shop, to its credit, is armed with staff that not only know what good suits look like, but also what good suits look like on you. They are happy to dedicate as much time to their customers as needs be, until the perfect suit, shirt or tie is found.

VERDICT For 20 years, Massimo Menswear has been carefully handpicking the most reliable and stylish brands, and, as a result, has deservedly built up a loyal and appreciate customer base.

Shopping should be personal and the Dawson Street store epitomises this, making it a deservedly popular shopping destination for the older demographic and fashion-conscious men who are guaranteed stylish and affordable garments that are also practical and long-lasting. In short, a master-class in why there will always be demand for the in-store experience.

Futura, Menswear and Footwear in Ireland | August 2014

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