Gothetshirt

So here’s my theory: If this was an episode of Animaniacs, the shops would be unloading these huge cardboard boxes of sales goods from a truck with ACME on the side…stuff you’ve never seen on the shelves or rails of the shops prior to the 70% sale. Beaten up shoes.  Chiffon summer dresses stained with fake tan. Weird looking tank tops that shrink at the first drop of water. Basically rags.  Then there’s the ridiculous party dresses that couldn’t be sold.  Sad shimmering numbers slumped skew ways on hangers…aw but they look so sad…   

Black feathers were all over the catwalk for Autumn/Winter 2008.  The easiest way to wear them? On a bag. Zara has one in the window of their new Stephen’s Green shop. They’re selling out fast though.

It’s not just the high street chains that are working the trend though. Julian McDonald has introduced one into his Debenhams collection.   While Zara’s version is rectangular with a chain strap that can easily be turned into a clutch, Star by Julian McDonald is flouncy and pretty.  Goth-ilicious and luxe at the same time…perfect for adding some interesting texture to black on black.  If I could just get my hands on one…

Plastic cagey ones, curly handled ones, ones that look like frogs when they open…ones with milk bottles on top instead of a point. Seriously. I saw one yesterday.  When did umbrellas become so fabulous anyway?  I blame it on Rihanna. The humble brolly is now having a fashion moment. 

I like the ones Topshop are selling. They’re frilly and dainty and polka-dotted with curly faux leather handles. Very My Fair Lady.  At €23 they give the phrase ’saving for a rainy day’ a whole new meaning. If your budget doesn’t stretch that far there’s always Primark’s cheap and cheerful ones. Penneys from heaven indeed.

…speaking of Abercrombie…what’s the deal with Dublin’s Farrell and Brown store?   Just opposite Trinity College on Dawson Street, I first got suspicious of this place when I saw the potted palms outside the door.  I pass this place everyday on the bus, but only went in on Saturday.  Now if they’re not some kind of sister store of Abercrombie, I’d be calling the lawyers in.  From the dark mahogony furnishings to the encased casuals, they’ve taken the essence of Fifth Avenue’s store and plonked it smack bang in rainy Dublin.  All that’s missing is the good looking greeters……..even the hats say F&B.  What’s going on?

Lost on 5th Avenue and looking for Abercrombie and Fitch?  Just follow your nose!  You’ll find Eau de Abercrombie, emanates from the street grates before you reach the store.  Okay, I don’t know if they actually do have huge underground cannisters of the stuff, spraying up the nostrils of  an unsuspecting public but there’s no escaping the tropical scent of Manhattan’s most famous smart/casual brand  as you saunter down fifth.  It all adds to the atmosphere though.  Once inside you’ll understand.  Walking into A & F is like stumbling upon a  dimly lit Mustique beach hut, complete with impossibly good looking “greeters” , palm trees, dark mahogany furniture cutting-edge beats and THAT scent.  Oh and lots of pretty clothes too.  Shopping in Abercrombie is a must do experience in New York.  Even if you’re just buying a cheap $28 T-shirt!

I know I said outlets are over-rated and all that…but there’s one exception: Lucky Brand at Woodbury Common.  The first thing you notice when you walk in is the retro rock soundtrack and wonderfully wild west decor.  Driftwood tables groan with graphic tees, embroidered belts and embellished bags. Old 45 records line the walls, but its the jeans that take pride of place! They seem to have all ages and shapes covered…it really is a brand with wide appeal!!

By the way, if you’re feeling flush, they’ve got another store on Broadway in SoHo!