Sequin coat by Joanne Hynes is a stand out in Dunnes

Joanne Hynes’s latest collection for Dunnes Stores was launched in a see now buy now presentation at the company’s HQ, the designer taking a predictably innovative approach to its marketing and selling.

Strong this season was the bold knitwear, colour blocked with Missoni-style stripes and clashing jacquard textures. She calls them “champion” knits and “painter” jumpers. Sequin coats were eyecatching and pastel tees decorated with oversize patent sequins with the most expensive items being snake leather jackets and skirts at €250 each.

What stood out in this colour blitz, however, were her stylish sequin printed raincoats just right for Irish weather but with their own zany look, proving that there is no reigning in this designer’s fertile imagination.

Designs on New York

Ten Irish designers head off to New York next month to the WearingIrish Showcase from May 15th to 18th with the aim of developing their business in the US. They are Natalie B Coleman, Jennifer Rothwell, Bláithín Ennis, Garvan de Bruir, Sands & Hall, The Tweed Project, Triona, Áine, Inner Island and Alison Conneely.

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Special events have been organised for them over the few days to introduce them to various people and potential buyers who might be interested in their work. There will also be Harvard Business School Mentoring and an Irish network special occasion run by the Department of Foreign Affairs. The event has been organised by Offaly native Margaret Molloy, chief executive of global branding company Siegel + Gale in tandem with Bank of Ireland.