STYLE Style Rules

Ashley McDonnell Global Digital Media & E-Commerce Manager at PUIG

Often described as Ireland’s very own Emily In Paris, New York Born, Galway native Ashley McDonnell, currently Global Digital Media & E-Commerce Manager at PUIG, has become an undisputed force within the luxury and digital space. Her latest venture, podcast Tech Powered Luxury, will explore the unison of luxury and technology, delving deep into the minds of industry leaders, providing a platform to share experiences and insights.

How would you describe your style?

A New Yorker with a Parisian soul and Irish heart. My style reflects the cities and countries I’ve lived in, and I love wearing Irish brands in particular when abroad, to showcase our talented designers and have something unique within my wardrobe.

What are your wardrobe staples that you can’t live without?

Handbags. I’m a bag person! My bags are my babies - they have their own wardrobe and every day I wear a different bag, sometimes multiple bags a day. This can become a challenge when looking for a wallet or a lipstick, but it’s a risk I’m willing to take.

Do you have a favourite designer or high street brand?

I will forever be a Dior girl. Dior was my first fashion house to really fall in love with, and after spending the first years of my career working at the headquarters of the brand, it has such a special place in my heart. I really admire what Maria Grazia Chiuri has achieved over the last years in developing collections inspired by femininity and the modern woman, without losing the DNA of the heritage instilled in the maison by Christian Dior.

Do you have any style icons?

Gemma Chan, best known for playing the role of Astrid in Crazy Rich Asians, is one of the most stylish women I’ve ever come across. I also religiously follow Marta Sierra on Instagram, who I was lucky enough to interview for episode two of my podcast Tech Powered Luxury. Her style is fun, creative and daring. Lastly, Harry Styles! If I could borrow anything from his wardrobe, I know I’d have a lot of fun in his Gucci suits and sequined onesies. Fashion should be fun and explorative.

Do you have a skincare regime?

Absolutely, I’m a skincare fanatic. Since discovering Seabody, my routine has been simplified as I’m not constantly on the hunt for something better - it simply doesn’t get better!

I use the Aquasurge Day Serum and Overnight Elexir serum as a first step, followed by the Seabody Glycan Enrich Moisturiser. I wear their Luminous Prime SPF30 everyday as well, as a last step before putting on makeup in the morning. I’ve also started taking their Beauty supplement, which is the perfect compliment to skincare, as it takes care of the skin’s health, elasticity and appearance from the inside out, using molecules derived from Irish seaweed.

What is your signature scent?

During the day I wear Fame by Paco Rabanne, and at night I wear Jean Paul Gaultier So Scandal. I worked on the launch of both of these products and have lovely memories attached to them. The role that scent has in encapsulating memories is fascinating to me, and I have so many fragrances that remind me of different moments in life.

Are there any haircare products you recommend?

I swear by Fable & Mane products, founded by my close friend Akash Mehta who I used to work with at Dior. Fable & Mane have a beautiful pre-wash scalp oil which smells divine, and their hair mask is the ultimate self care product. Akash is also a guest on Tech Powered Luxury. During his episode he shares the inspiration for the brand, and how they grew to be the number one haircare brand online at Sephora.

What is your go-to makeup product?

I always wear something on my lips, usually Dior as I think they do the best lipsticks and lip products. The Lip Glow Oil is a personal favourite, or the signature Rouge Dior in shade 999 - their bold and rich red.

Ashley’s new podcast Tech Powered Luxury is available on all streaming platforms.