Never underestimate the power of simple

I’m all about having colour and print in my own wardrobe but every so often I like to give my look a little palette cleanse and opt for something a little bit more understated and simple.

While colour can give that instant impact you can also never underestimate the power of simple, chic silhouettes mixed with neutrals and the H&M summer collection is all about that chic vibe this season.

It’s a look that can take you from the beach to cocktails and onto dinner and dancing where beachwear, crochet and relaxed linen suiting all combine in shades of cream, black and smoky, earthy tones.

It makes for super easy dressing as all the pieces work so easily together while crisp white and sunny yellow pop against graphic black print.

I love the idea of pairing a linen jacket with linen shorts and wearing a bathing suit underneath and then setting the whole look off with great accessories like bold, gold statement earrings. Crochet and breathable fabrics like linen are really having their moment this season and they make super additions to any summer look.

The designers were inspired by long, lazy days in the sun that transitioned into night time fun and with these key pieces you’ve certainly got the building blocks to a great summer wardrobe that never goes out of style.

It also makes packing super easy as you’ve already got a colour palette that works together and you can just throw the pieces in your case and your ready to go.

The goldy shimmer dress is a particular holiday hero piece as you could easily wear it over your swimwear for a day at the pool and then just throw on some heels and jewellery for night time glam. Who doesn’t love a hard working, stylish and chic dress.

Now for something which was certainly not simple or understated…drag brunch. I had the most fabulous weekend in Clonakilty at a drag brunch in DeBarras which was hosted by the drag troupe Mockie Ah and put together by Host.

Host is the brain child of make up artist Siobhan O’Mahony and chef Caitlin Ruth and is a fund of knowledge on all things parties from how to plan a party, cocktails, catering and everything in between. The day got underway with delicious cocktails and grazing boards laden with fabulous brunch goodies and sweat treats.

I’d never thought of doing brunch boards before and I’ll definitely be giving these a go for my next party.

We were then treated to a hilarious drag show and drag brunch bingo with the best music to get the party started. I actually kept my bingo card and I’m going to use it as a party playlist. Who doesn’t love a bit of Spice Girls, Ru Paul and some Eurovision classics? If you don’t then we simply can’t be friends.

There was also a best dressed competition where I inadvertently became both a judge and runner up and is it even a drag brunch if you’re not doing a conga line around Clonakilty town at 4pm? Now I’ll just need a month or 2 to recover before the next one.