TREND ALERT :EARN YOUR STRIPES

Bright, bold, fat or thin, stripes are all over the map this spring. Whether they turn up on playful skirts, fitted blazers or slim pants, the effect is fun and flirtatious. They're on everything from funky bags to glamorous evening dresses and will get you lots of admiring glances.


Are stripes readily available?


Just check out the rails in every high street store. From thick bold blocks of colour to slender pastel lines, it's stripes everywhere.


What designers are doing it?


A favourite of many top designers, both horizontal and vertical stripes were spotted on the runways, most prominently used by Moschino and Prada. There is a nautical dominance to this trend but it can also be used to emphasise military, 1950s glamour and 70s-inspired styles.


Why buy stripes?


They can be a girl's best friend; especially vertical stripes which help make legs, body and arms appear thinner.
Are they suitable for evening wear?


Stores such as Monsoon and Hobbs have a great range of striped eveningwear in store. For a dressy look, check out Monsoon for their stunning mauve and pink striped maxi - match with a floppy hat for a seventies inspired look.


And for everyday?


Striped T-shirts come in all colours. Good old Pennys ( what on earth would we do without them!) have a range of T- shirts, cardigans and sweaters in navy, red and blue shades starting at only €10 - but don’t be put off by the low price, these beauties look like they sauntered off a yacht in the French Rivera.


 For a more daring look, Lipsy have a dynamic little top in navy and white with a red heart motif - very flattering for the smaller bust. And at Debenhams, Jasper Conran has an elegant stripe Mac, complete with a satin belt. At €120, it's on the pricey side but highly versatile - wear it to work and then straight out for a night on the town.


What about accessories?


Don't accessorise too heavily. Cut back on the jewellery - one piece, such as a chunky ring or a thin necklace will do. Try to keep the design as plain and simple as possible. M&S have a great range of jewellery to suit all occasions, from big diamante rings to delicate beaded necklaces - and all at very reasonable prices. House of Fraser have a great choice of scarves too. The coral & white stripe scarf, €160 Love Moschino, is my personal favourite but there’s a wide selection of other designs throughout the store.


How can I keep the cost down?


You don't have to buy a whole outfit. Accessorize have a cute navy blue stripe bow shopper, €21.99, which will instantly update a plain outfit. Or for a fashion bargain, head to TK Maxx or Pennys where you can always find something special - without having to spend a fortune.






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