Catriona Cassidy (nee Mulhern) of the Irish House and Triona Designs tells Donegal Woman how she mixes modern and classic styles with her iconic jackets for a confident look.

Having grown up in the village of Ardara, Catriona Cassidy is part of the famous Mulhern Family and her name was the inspiration behind the family Tweed business Triona Design which has been running now for over 30 years designing and producing Donegal Tweed Jackets and Coats.

Catriona now runs their Irish House store in Donegal Town which has a fabulous selection of stylish Jackets, Blazers, Coats and knitwear. Join us as we delve into the wardrobe of this Business Woman, Wife, Mother, Designer and all round Super Woman.

This is Catriona Cassidy’s style study for Donegal Woman:

Weekend Casual

How would you describe your personal style?

I go for the smart casual look. I like to keep an eye on current trends but also love to mix modern looks with classic pieces. Since becoming a Mum to little Evie my wardrobe has become more about practicality than anything!

 

Who is your Style Icon?

I wouldn’t say I have one particular style icon. Having grown up in the Fashion Trend I’ve always had an interest in fashion. I do like Amy Huberman’s style. She has a classic look while still staying fashionable – also I love her shoe collections!

 

What is your favourite piece of clothing?

I love my jeans. It sounds boring but you can build any outfit around a nice pair of denims. Also you can’t go wrong with a crisp white t-shirt.

 

What inspires you when choosing an outfit?

It really depends on the occasion and also how I’m feeling that day! For work I like to wear something classic like one of my tweed jackets or if I’m on a day off it’s all about comfort as I’ll be running around with my 16 month old daughter. Whatever the occasion, I need to feel comfortable to feel confident.

Work Wear

How would you accessorise a look?

I like to keep it simple. I love my bags! A great tote bag with a simple pair of earrings and sunglasses and I’m good to go.

 

What is your most recent fashion purchase?

I love a bargain and recently found some great pieces in the H&M Sale. I also bought a gorgeous blazer in Zara recently and I know I’ll get great wear out of it.

Pink Crepe Zara Blazer

Where do you usually shop for clothing?

I’m a big high street girl. I love Zara and H&M – I find they both offer wearable pieces and I like to mix them up with my Triona Tweed Jackets. Can you tell I like Jackets?! I’m also partial to a little bit of disposable fashion from Pennys – who isn’t!

Do you have any favourite local fashion boutiques?

I like The Edge in Donegal Town, it’s great to pick up bits and pieces such as little tops, shirts etc McElhinneys is another favourite, especially if I’m looking for something for a Special Occasion

 

What are your wardrobe staples?

Jeans! Every girl needs a pair of Black Skinnies in their life. I also like my boyfriend jeans in a classic blue and love getting the chance to wear white denims in the good weather.

My leather jacket – it’s an investment piece but totally timeless. Also a good pair of heels – you feel so much more confident in a great pair of shoes!

Do you follow trends?

I work in the fashion industry so I need to keep up to date with current trends and what’s fashionable – I love my magazines. As we design our own clothing at Triona I need to keep an eye on what’s trending for the season ahead and what the designers are showing on the catwalk. For my own personal style I like to take elements and mix in with my own look.

Heels or Flats?

Always heels! Ive always loved high heels and used to wreck my poor mother’s shoes when I was young!

 

Shoes or Handbags?

Shoes. Sometimes both lol When I buy a handbag it tends to be an investment and I’d treat myself every 2 years or so but I’m always buying shoes!

 

What is the best piece of fashion advice you’ve ever heard?

Don’t feel like you have to follow the crowd, create your own personal style that you are comfortable with.

 

What do you think about the fashion scene in Donegal?

I think people in Donegal are quite fashion forward. With the influence of social media we have become more confident and daring with our choice. We have a great range of shops and boutiques in the county now so you don’t have to travel to go shopping. We aren’t afraid to show our own style and I think that’s great.

What has been your best investment piece?

My Louis Vuitton Tote Bag. I love it and I use it all the time, it’s the perfect size and its been brilliant value in terms of the all important Price per Wear!

 

If you could wear only one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Black leather trousers, white t-shirt, tweed blazer and heels – a classic look that will always be in fashion!

Classic Balmain Blazer

What has been your biggest fashion faux pas?

The 90’s! Everything from the awful Shell Suits to those Jelly Shoes that everyone wore!

 

If money wasn’t a factor, what would you buy?

A Balmain Blazer.

 

How do you feel when you are in your favourite outfit?

Confident, Comfortable and ready for anything!