Retro Rates: Ashley Williams x Red or Dead

Be still, my beating heart (and rebellious credit card!). Never before has a shoe collection grabbed my attention so fiercely as Ashley Williams’ collaboration with Red or Dead. The British designer has teamed up with the label to create a seven piece range entitled #MakingMovies. The retro-inspired collection includes provocative vinyl kitten heels and pointed monochrome stilettoes. Williams was influenced by Red or Dead’s back catalogue from the 1990s and early noughties and her own kitsch designs. Her spring/summer '15 runway show featured an East meets West theme which fascinatingly came about after she saw photographs of Vietnamese prostitutes in the 1960s.  

The #MakingMovies collection is available now exclusively on schuh.co.uk

"For girls who live their lives through movies”

See more of Ashley Williams’ divine SS15 collection here

Spell It Out This Valentine’s Day With Quirky Irish Gifts

Valentine’s Day needn’t cost the earth. I’ve put together a unique but affordable gift selection that’s sure to impress your sweetheart. Save your pennies while supporting Irish design and business.

Illustrated cards by Salty Philip

The card is often the most appreciated gift. These pun-tastic lovelies by Dublin-based illustrator Lynn MacPherson will give your special someone a right ol’ chortle. You can buy them in The Loft Market  in Powerscourt Townhouse.

Handmade cards by A Little Idea

These charming cards are by Dublin designer Ali. She also crafts stationery, headscarves, bunting, cushion covers and costume jewellery. Ali sells her pieces at numerous markets including the Ha'penny Flea Market, but you can purchase them on Etsy too.

Blind Date With A Book at Dubray Bookstores

Surprise your beloved (and even yourself!) with a beautifully wrapped book from Dubray Books. What’s inside? Oh, the intrigue! There's a selection of ‘blind date’ books in every branch. A novel idea, eh?!

I had to include this wonderful piñata after spotting it on Instagram. Piñatas Piñatas is owned by Louth-based designer Ruth O’Reilly. Ruth handcrafts everything from Minions to cupcakes and will custom-make anything you’ve in mind…like this anti-Valentine’s Day gem.