Well-known bridal designer Kathy de Stafford reckons that in her long career she has made about 17,000 bridal gowns. What started in a small atelier on South William Street has grown to three stores and an award-winning reputation for hand-made gowns with clients that have come from Ireland, Europe, America and Asia.

This year marks a new development for the designer: her collaboration with Fields jewellers on a collection of diamond engagement and wedding rings along with diamond and pearl earrings and necklaces.

De Stafford says that the type of rings chosen by or for a bride often reflect the style of the wedding dress so she has designed three collections – the clean-lined Signature with classic solitaires, the Statement with princess and emerald cuts for standout glamour and Vintage inspired by her passion for vintage.

The collections, priced from €995-€4,500, are on sale in Fields stores nationwide and can be bought online at www.fields.ie/KDSforFields

Stripe it

A fast way to freshen up a spring look is this pleated striped skirt from Mint Velvet – about €80 and in store now – it could be worn with a cropped khaki jacket from the collection or a plain T-shirt picking up one of the colours from the skirt. You usually associate Mint Velvet with more subdued colour tones – neutrals and pale shades, but the new season's offerings are bright and colourful right down to the pom-pom fringed sandals, suede shoulder bags and tassel earrings. Find the collection in their store in Dundrum, in House of Fraser and online at www.mintvelvet.co.uk