Celebrate the Dolce Vita
I’ve had the busiest week attending an event in the city and also a super special weekend at my brother’s wedding.
Needless to say the social battery is in need of a major recharge and I will more than likely be hibernating for the month of September. If you need me, you can find me detoxing in a day spa somewhere.
On Friday I went to Cork's newly opened Old Brennan’s Wine House where guests were treated to a taste of Italy thanks to Disaronno. Disaronno, an amaretto liqueur, is encouraging us to celebrate the Dolce Vita and enjoy some of life’s greatest pleasures, like sipping on a cold, refreshing cocktail with friends and family on a long summers/early autumn evening - even if it’s just in your garden and not on the Amalfi coast!
On the day, we enjoyed a cocktail masterclass with Disaronno Brand Ambassador Richie Delahoyde, mixing up a refreshingly light Disaronno Fizz, followed by delicious Italian-inspired plates.
The event took place in the chic surroundings of what could only be described as Nonna’s kitchen, located upstairs in Old Brennan’s Wine House, which was transformed into a slice of Italy, complete with a backdrop of upbeat summer hits by DJ Stephen Howard.
Originating from Saronno, Italy, where it is still produced today, Disaronno’s secret recipe is steeped in history and dates back to 1525. The cocktail featuring soda water, refreshing lemon juice and of course the Disaronno liquer, was giving me an Italian summer vibe and so I knew I had to go extra with the outfit.
When in doubt and needing to channel the extraness of Italian fashion, there was only one thing for it and that is to pop on some leopard print. I picked up my Essentiel Antwerp leopard print dress a few years ago in Blue Fig boutique in Ballincollig and I have gotten so much wear out of it. A loose, flowy shirt dress style, it has of course the Essentiel Antwerp twist with colourful dots combined with the leopard print.
I’ve worn it with sandals in summer, tights and boots in winter, dressed it down with trainers and also layered it over light wash denim. It’s super versatile. For this event I paired it with a pair of pink strappy heels and an orange bag to add an extra pop of colour. If leopard print seems daunting to you, there are some easy ways to start wearing the trend that looks to be sticking around for the foreseeable future. Start small with accessories, add a pair of leopard print ballet flats to a simple outfit or tie a leopard print scarf around a handbag or in your hair. I also love styling jumpsuits with a leopard print scarf tied around the neck and it gives a simple nod to the print.
A leopard print hand bag is also a great way to just add a little bit of it into your look but if you feel adventurous go full on with a dress or jumpsuit. I recently bought a leopard print denim jumpsuit in Silk Peaches and I have worn it loads already.
I’ve toned it down a bit with trainers and a blazer but you could also wear it for a night out with some black or gold heels. Now that I will be hibernating for the autumn I’ll stick to making my leopard print casual daywear appropriate and will be styling a leopard print jacket with jeans and a tee.