Coastal-Inspired Pieces for a Seasonal Wardrobe Refresh

Meet Galway Now's new Contributing Style Editor, Michelle Hanley. Michelle made the leap from the polished floors of Dublin’s magazine world to the windswept beauty of Clare’s west coast five years ago, trading in her block heels and tailored blazers for sandy sandals and sun-creased linens.

“Now when I’m looking for my fashion fix I head straight to the streets of neighbouring Galway, my ideal combo of slick city style and my all-time beloved boho," she says. "With the incredible sunshine we’ve been fortunate enough to have on the west coast for the last few weeks, I have been dreaming of investing in some soft butter linens, seashell accessories and all types of coastal motifs." Below, she shares two of her favourite summer style trends for making the most of the season.

Something Fishy

Give me any seaside motif, knitted, embroidered, or made into a charm and I’m in heaven. Little did I know, what I need more than anything this summer is a shrimp vest until Irish brand Kelsey Studio, pre-launched this wonder or Aussie brand Alemais released the fish cross body bag of my dream…

*From Left:* Shrimp vest, $400, Studio Kelsey; Horizon raffia fish cross body, €370, Alemais; Cream marina sol waistcoat, €185, Never Fully Dressed

*From Left:* Hamptons necklace, €69.95, Colette; Peubco recycled plastic bag, €29.25, Suuupply; Sun earrings, €15, Mango

*From left:* VRG GRL dolphin intarsia oversized jumper, €76.50, ASOS; Namib sandals in red, €99, Hoff the Brand

Butter and Coffee

Arguably the colour combo of the summer. This rich brown will replace black as neutrals take a buttery turn. Keep skirts floor-length and try out the scarf-top-trend with something you have at home for scorching beach days.