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Sinéad Burke is taking the fashion world by storm, and she's starting with her new role as contributing editor for British Vogue.

What an absolute queen!

The Irish activist rapidly rose to fame after her award-winning Ted Talk: ‘Why design should include everyone’.

Sinéad aims to make a difference in the fashion industry and has been an avid advocate for the world of design to include all types of people.

In her talk, the speaker demanded that the industry expand its narrowed target market and design clothes with and for disabled people.

It seems Vogue agreed, and now, as contributing editor she is already started the movement to make this happen.

Sinéad’s first column for the magazine is titled ‘Why I Chose To Embrace My Differences’. In her piece, she reflects on her experience as a physically disabled teacher.

She loved that children asked her questions about herself that the adults never would, and she took the opportunity to rewire their thought processes.

 

Creative chaos. On Saturday, I facilitated workshops in @airbnb’s HQ with children from all over Dublin as we discussed and created the places where they love to play. It was a collaboration with #MyCruinniu and Dublin Culture Connects – an organisation that reaches out into the community and listens to their voices, expertise and lived experiences to shape the city we love. It was an incredible day and getting to spend hours learning from children about what they want and need is such a genuine privilege. . . Thank you to Aalia, Rowena and Shauna who were absolutely superb in enriching the conversations and ensuring too many dinosaur treats were not consumed. . . [Image description: Across five photographs, children create the places and objects that inspire them to play. There were football pitches, MMA stadiums, the beach and an array of hats that would make Philip Treacy envious.] . .

“When they asked me: ‘Why are you so small?’, I answered, ‘Why are you so big?’. Confusion meandered across their faces, they’d […] respond with […]: ‘I don’t know, I was born like this’.

“This simplistic explanation of genetics sat comfortably with young children and from that moment, I was their teacher.”

Sinéad goes on to discuss how although she loves being little now, she considered undergoing a painful, limb-lengthening procedure when she was just 11-years-old.

But after a discussion with family and friends she realised that she “was attempting to make [her] differences more palatable” and refused the surgery.

 

I’m very, very proud to be a new Contributing Editor to @britishvogue. Thank you so much to @edward_enninful for his extraordinary leadership and to @gileshattersley and @alcaselyhayford for taking a chance on me. My first piece (which is online now) is about my body, disability and our response to difference. . . “We are embarrassed by what we do not know, and we are often aggressive towards anyone who reminds us of our ignorance, or is different to us. Yet, from children’s innocent inquisitiveness we could learn to cultivate an empathy and respect for otherness.” . . [Image description: Sitting and wearing a rather fantastic @burberry blouse – it has a polka dot collar, pussy-bow and cuffs, whilst the remainder is vertical stripes, I’m posing with one hand on my hip and the other on my lap. I’m smiling and my bob is suspiciously like that of another Vogue team-member…. this photo was taken at @scaddotedu.]

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In her article’s conclusion, she reminded us “that no one is 'normal'. Life is complex, challenging and full of difference.”

We are absolutely ecstatic the Sinéad has taken on this new role as a contributing editor for British Vogue.

The Irish speaker has come a long way from Meath, and we have no doubt that she will go even farther in this world. 

Sinéad is a complete boss and we can't wait to see what she does next!

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There are so many things I ADORED about Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again. The feel-good musical inspired by the music of ABBA was everything I wanted and more.

 

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I was surprised by just how good the soundtrack was considering they sang most of ABBA's greatest hits in the original film. However, it's been a week since I first watched the movie and Cher’s version of Fernando is still stuck in my head.

One thing that really stood out for me (apart from young Bill aka the man of my dreams) was the young Donna’s style.

The main focus of the movie was young Donna’s journey from graduate to mum, but I couldn’t help but swoon over her outfits. Her quirky boho style was simple, but striking.

 

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Obviously, we’d never get away with wearing outfits like Donna's here in Ireland- thanks rain- but I thought I’d gather up some of the nicest pieces inspired by young Donna.

Sure, it may not be sunny enough to rock these looks in reality, but you can wear them, stick on the soundtrack and pretend you’re frolocking around a Greek island in the 1970s.

New Look Denim Dungarees €20
Forever 21 Orange Maxi Skirt €16
Monki White Tunic Dress €30
Revolve Aquarius Jumpsuit €92
New Look Mom Shorts €24.99
Forever 21 Yellow Belbottoms €17.40
Boohoo Star Print Jacket €36
Dorothy Perkins Platform Boots €16

 

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Hallelujah for inclusive fashion!

Fashion retailer ASOS have proven how sound they are by designing a new piece of clothing, suitable for people with a disability.

The rainproof jumpsuit is modelled by Great Britain paralympic Chloe Ball-Hopkin.

Speaking to Newsbeat, Chloe explained that she wants to ''make fashion that is accessible to everybody."

The athlete and BBC Bristol sports reporter was contacted by ASOS, who wanted to see if she would be interested in a collaboration. 

The idea for the jumpsuit came to Chloe after she got drenched while at a festival with her boyfriend.

"You get the same version whether it's you or I buying it – that's the point. It is exactly the same for me as it is for you,'' the 21-year-old said. 

The support she has been getting has reached a global level. 

Social media have shared their delight, with one Twitter user saying, ''this jumpsuit is cute, and better yet, inclusive of people who use wheelchairs. Excited to see more inclusive clothing coming out!''

Another commented, ''just ordered from ASOS for the first time! Love that they’re collaborating for accessible fashion!''

Disability blogger Shona Louise has written a moving piece championing the brand for catering for differently-abled bodies. 

She wrote, ''for so long accessible clothing has been ugly, ridiculously expensive and generally unappealing. Actually designing something with disabled people in mind is a whole other amazing and important step. It's not the extra step either, it's the equal step.''

This is not the first time ASOS has included a model who has a disability in a campaign.

Model, blogger and leg amputee Mama Cax was featured by the brand in one of their activewear campaigns back in in January. 

So what other brand will be next to follow in their footsteps? 

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Everyone has their insecurities and hang-ups about their bodies – and we are our own harshest critics.

In the world when images of Instagram and Victoria secret models are accessible at a touch of a button, it's easy to get discouraged.

That's why you NEED to heed this advice from our one and only, Louise McSharry. 

 

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As the broadcaster cooled off in the Irish sea with her little man during the heatwave, it sparked a pang of regret.

Taking to Instagram, the body confident expert said: "I feel a tinge of sadness about all the times I didn’t swim growing up because I was too afraid to be seen in a swimsuit. There are a lot of things I didn’t do in my teens and twenties because I was ashamed of my body."

"Thankfully I came to the conclusion that I deserved to enjoy my life rather than hiding away because of something as superficial as my body’s appearance."

 

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"I decided that if people judged me, it didn’t matter, that what mattered was living my actual life and not sitting on the sidelines watching other people going on sun holidays or swimming in the sea," she continued. 

"As it happens, I’m not aware of anyone making any judgement or comment since I started doing and wearing what I want. Maybe they do, but I think because I’ve decided I don’t care, I don’t even notice it if it is happening."

 

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"Not ‘when you lose the weight’, because you might never ‘lose the weight’ and actually you’re probably just fine as you are."

"One thing’s for sure, you won’t find yourself lying on your deathbed thinking ‘thank god I didn’t take my cardigan off on that really hot day’ or ‘I’m really glad I didn’t go swimming with my friends all those times.’ You deserve to LIVE, whatever body you’re in." 

 

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We couldn't agree more.

Now get out there into the freezing Irish sea and rock that swimsuit! 

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It's the shop that just keeps on giving.

Our beloved Pennys is now becoming more inclusive and we are DELIGHTED.

The launch of the new sizing will get underway over the next couple of months.

The store is currently switching up their number sizing from the traditional 8, 10, 12.

In its place will be S, M & L.

However, it isn't stopping there, as the retailer has planned to expand the range from XXS (UK4) to XXL (UK24).

You'll begin to see the new sizing as Pennys spoke to Pretty52 and said the line is trickling in.

"We have updated our sizing for a more comfortable fit – we will be grouping sizes into S/M/L etc, rather than 8/10/12 etc.

 

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"The new sizing is trickling into stores now and will be used for a small amount of lingerie plus a large selection of womenswear including: Jumpers, cardigans, jersey tops, sports tops, casual bottoms, workout apparel, shorts (not denim shorts), light jackets and some swimwear," said the retail giant.

It wasn't long before people took to Twitter to express their sheer joy at the move.

Here's hoping that this is only the beginning of more inclusive sizes being introduced.

If you'll need us, we'll be in Pennys!

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There's not much that Queen Bey can't pull off.

This can be seen with her recent Instagram pics which showed her enjoying an impromptu photoshoot session on her private jet. 

And how fab does she look? 

 

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The singer first posted a video collage, featuring several pictures of herself rocking a Zimmerman pink paisley ensemble.

Known for her killer fashion choices, she paired her ruffled paisley shirt and matching high-waisted shorts with a boxy white handbag and clear heels. 

Her hair up was swept up in an epic blonde top knot and the look was finished off with pink sunglasses, hoop earrings and a statement red lip. 

 

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Bey decided to ditch the caption and simply let her images speak for themselves – which they did.

Her 115 million followers showed their support with comments such as, ''SLAY PRETTY IN PINK'' and ''You are PERFECT in every way. No matter what you do, what you wear, what you sing'' while others simply opted for love hearts or fire emojis. 

 

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However, even Beyonce suffers mishaps, which was seen recently on stage during her On The Run II Tour in Warsaw, Poland.

She lost her balance during a cover of Ed Sheeran's Perfect, as the "flying stage" she was standing on suddenly stopped. 

Thankfully she wasn't injured and was helped down a ladder by crew members.

And if anyone can make climbing down a ladder in high-heeled PVC boots look stylish, it is the Queen of Pop. 

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Victoria Beckham has been rocking the pavements of the French capital this week.

Paris is playing host to fashion week, which means tight schedules and a lot of running around.

All the high fashion seems to have caught up with one member of the Beckham family, and Victoria was having none of it – rookie mistake!

The mum-of-four called out her son's sleepy antics like the lady boss she is.

The 44-year-old took to her Instagram story and owned Brooklyn. 

The teen was seen trying to sleep on route to London via the Eurostar. 

Victoria captioned the snap: "Love spending quality time with @brooklynbeckham."

To our sheer delighted, the fun didn't stop there as Victoria added another photo, just in case Brooklyn wasn't mortified enough the first time. 

The fashion queen asked her 21m followers if she should take her the 19-year-old's sleeping personally.

It's fair to say, Brooklyn won't be falling asleep in his mother's company again. 

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If you're looking to stock up on statement pieces this autumn, then River Island is full of your must-haves.

With fur and sparkles galore, RI has exactly what you need to work that cocktail party, day-to-night, boss lady look. 

But just don't take my word for it. Let's have a look at how you can build your very own River Island staple wardrobe. 

 First you get the fur, then you get the money…

Just kidding, but in all seriousness, River Island is a fluffy haven this winter. We're loving this brown leather trench with the fur collar, layer it up with a plaid skirt or over a print dress and you're ready to rock the high street. 

Need more bulk to fend off that wintery weather? I know it seems like ages away but you'll thank us later with his white leopard print fur coat. 

Or if you're more into a grizzly than a polar bear this teddy bear coat is right up your alley.

Team it with a pair of white chunky healed boots and a Baker Boy cap for a medley of 90s and 60s vibes.  

Oh and did we mention that oversized furry bags are a thing? In love isn't the word. 

What winter wardrobe would be complete without a cosy chunky knit?

We adore this muted toned polo neck, worn loose for maximum comfort. 

Go slouchy with a pair of skinnies or dress it up with this delectable plum leather skirt. 

Tis the season to sparkle and shine- and these party pieces are guaranteed to steal  the spot light. 

Are you more cutesy in oversized baby pink and blue sequins or sultry and mysterious in black and gold polka dots?

 Animal prints are everywhere for autumn, even in our two piece suits!

Be the queen of the jungle AND the cocktail party with this fushia sequined suit.

The best part? Use them as separates with either block colours or go bold with clashing prints and textures.

Of course no River Island mooch would be complete without an accessories haul dahling.

Go chic and classy with these elegant pearl and gold drop earrings or bold and show-stopping with massive costume earrings (pictured below). 

Also we NEED these heels! Who ever said that tartan was just for skirts? Eh, not us, we'll take two please. 

Have a gawk at the rest of the collection on the SHEmazing Instagram story at @shemazingie – pieces soon landing in a River Island store near you! 

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This year has been quite a milestone for Orla Kiely. The acclaimed Irish designer is celebrating 20 years of presence in the Kilkenny shops, as well as the launch of A Life in Pattern, the first exhibition dedicated to the Dublin-born designer at the Fashion and Textiles Museum in London. 

Based in London, Orla Kiely was in Dublin recently to answer some of our questions. 

After her long successful career, there is one piece of advice she wants to share with young designers. 

 

‘A Life in Pattern’ now open at @fashiontextilemuseum #orlakiely #alifeinpattern

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It is important for young designers to know what they are really good at and to follow through with who they are”, she said.

“I think it’s essential to be aware of what is going on in [in the fashion world] but to find they own identity is very important. Once they really know who they are and what they love, then they can follow that through.”

Known as the Queen of Prints, Orla Kiely wears pattern on a daily basis, but for some of us, including prints in our wardrobe can be quite a challenge. But her answer is simple: start with accessories! I think print on a bag isn’t challenging”, she said. 

While her designs have been worn all around the world, one person has offered some great exposure to the brand in the past few years: the Duchess of Cambridge. Every time the mother of three wears an Orla Kiely dress, the outcomes are extremely positive and the designer couldn't be happier about this "Kate Middleton effect". 

“It’s great!”, she says enthusiastically. “She has worn us four times and it’s always unexpected, we have never planned it. She looks great, she is tall, and she wears things so well.” 

As she is celebrating two decades of design, Orla has seen the world of fashion evolving over the years, and sometimes, for the better. Customers seem more and more interested in investing in statement pieces that will last longer, even if it means buying less the rest of the time. 

'People are definitely buying less and better quality”, she notices. “I like to think that our clients can buy something this season, but they also are still happy to use the items that they bought ten years ago.”

Never really interested in trends, Orla wishes that her timeless pieces will keep being used by her customers over the years.

For the many of us who adore her 70's aesthetic, this certainly won't be an issue

 

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Is it us or does it feel like we all deserve a bit of a treat at that stage?

While shopping doesn't solve problems (or so we hear), a quick trip on the Zara website definitely makes us feel better. 

These hot new releases are perfect for the summer season and we just can't wait to wear them!

1. Rustic pareo

2. Cat's eye sunglasses

3. Embroidered jumpsuit

4. Slides with shiny tubular straps

5. Textured weave trousers

6. Floral print dress

7. Raffia minaudière bag

8. Sequin dress

9. Long floral print dress

10. Metallic-effect bermuda short

 

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Monday is an awful bitch.

Well it was, until we got that glorious email from ASOS informing us of their latest flash sale. 

20% off EVERYTHING. Yep, absolutely everything, until Wednesday. 

Don't mind if we do. 

We're about a week from pay day, so money is pretty damn tight – but summer is also coming, and I need new sandals. 

So honestly, this sale couldn't have come at a better time. 

So, here are a few things that I will 100% be purchasing on this grey, dark Monday morning:

 

 

 

 

 

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The weather outside may be a bit temperamental, but summer 2018 is FINALLY in sight – and with that, it's high time we give our wardrobes a bit of a style makeover. 

Sure, you could nip into town and fill you shopping bags with the high street's latest collections, but if you're on the hunt for unique finds and vintage threads, look no further than ASOS Marketplace. 

Home to the best independent brands and boutiques, the online store is a vintage lover's dream. 

From gorgeous accessories to colourful kimonos, here's just some of our favourite pieces available to buy right now. 

 

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