Shaws Department Store in Roscrea was where I spent my first wage packet. I had a summer job in a local chemist doing an inventory of the storeroom and stacking shelves, so I headed to Shaws and purchased the most amazing pink bell-bottoms.
Well, it was 1971! Shaws was the ‘go to’ shop in the town and I think those bell-bottoms were the first item of clothing I ever bought.
I also remember a purple mini-dress with matching bell-bottom trousers and a maxi dress which I bought a year or two later. Unfortunately, I have no photos, but I assure you I was the height of fashion and my purchases looked as if they had come straight from the iconic ‘Biba’ store in London.
So, I was naturally delighted when Shaws reached out and asked me to do some instagram videos of my favourite looks from their store in Mullingar. We had history, though they did not necessarily know it. So my instagram (and real) husband GG and I headed off for my first video shoot.
Choosing the three outfits was easy. I immediately zoomed in on Punt Roma, a Spanish label exclusive to Shaws, and headed to the changing room. I could have worn anything from the collection. First of all, the quality is exceptional and the prices are extremely reasonable.
Those who follow me know I love a maxi in the summer. They are so easy to wear. Throw it on, grab a cardi or a wrap and you are good to go. I particularly loved the boho vibe and the details on this dress below (with Newbridge Tiamo red bangle €65). I wore it in the video with some extremely comfortable white mules (Kate Appleby Knightsbridge €50), but it would look equally good with flats and did I mention the price (€69.95)?
I am also a stripe-aholic and I have written before here about my addiction, so I could not resist these red stripe trousers (€39.95), which I teamed with a flattering loose top (€36.95), Newbridge Guinness necklace (€85) and Newbridge Tiamo bangle (€30).
Punt Roma also carry some more dressy dresses and I loved the shape and the pattern of my final choice below (€75 and an Oriano red leather clutch €42). A slightly shorter slip allows a little more visible leg and a lovely tie detail at the waist makes this both comfortable and flattering.
Friends of mine seek out this label when they are in Spain, now they just need to visit one of Shaws’ 16 stores. I was amazed at the variety of labels on offer, including many of my favourites such as Wallis and Phase Eight.
It is heartwarming to see that the family-owned business is going from strength to strength, since its first store opened in 1864 in Mountmellick, Co Laois. I know I will be heading to Drogheda or Dun Laoghaire with some of my friends for a girls’ day out very soon. Have a look HERE and see where their stores are located and if you wish you can follow them on FB or Instagram.
I found it unnerving to watch myself in the short videos and to listen to my voice. Do I really sound like that? Anyway, you can see the Shaws’ videos in which I feature (under Fashion and Homewares respectively) here and here. They will be rolled out on Instagram over the next few weeks.
I am off to practise speaking in front of the mirror and see if I can eliminate those strange expressions.
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Linking up with some of my favourite bloggers:
Great to hear about your first buys and the pink bell bottoms. You must have been very trendy even then! I haven’t heard of this brand but definitely one to look for. You look chic in all the outfits. I love the last dress, stunning!
Thanks Gail…well worth looking out for. I lived in those pink bell bottoms..
All three outfits are great on Hilda. Aren’t we lucky to have understanding other halves to help us get along with our blogging content? I haven’t heard of this store before and it looks like it has loads to offer!
Laurie xx
Thanks Laurie..wouldn’t manage without him.
To this day I still remember buying my first pair of hip-hugger bell-bottom jeans in green hounds tooth. I thought I was all that! Ha ha. Love your outfits in this post. Everything is fabulous!
Cheryl
http://www.northwestmountainliving.com
I think the first money you earn and spend remains in your memory forever…
FABULOUS!
OFF TO HEAR YOUR VOICE!!!!!!!!
XX
I hope you are not disappointed..x
I love the connection you have with this store – what a great story. The outfits are all very sleek and you look like you had great fun. I’m sure we’d all feel a bit strange seeing and hearing ourselves on film like this – but hey, well done to you for being chosen to represent them!
Anna x
Thanks Anna…yes it is a lovely connection. And though I was a little outside my comfort zone it was fun. x
These are all lovely on you Hilda, I especially like the last dress – it’s stunning. Jacqui Mummabstylish
Thanks Jacqui… had too much choice…went back to buy other trousers..great quality and value…