Lorna Murphy studied fashion design in Milan, followed by working within the fashion industry in Berlin, London and Dublin. Fresh Cuts Clothing has stores in Dublin and Galway. freshcutsclothing.com
Are you a saver or a spender?
At the moment definitely a saver as we are saving for our first home. I think there was a time in my life when I was a spender, too, but it’s all about the stage of your life, isn’t it?
What was the first job you ever received money for, and how much were you paid?
When I was 16, working a summer job at House of Fraser. I was paid €8 an hour, and I remember feeling so grown-up and independent. I loved working and having my own money.
Do you shop around for better value?
I shop for quality and experience. I’m such an emotional person, and I don’t buy something because of the value, but for the way it makes me feel, the story behind it and the impact that item will have in my everyday life. If I’m investing in a piece, it takes me so long to make up my mind, and I hate the thought of getting something and it not being used. I value money, and I appreciate how hard it is to acquire.
READ MORE
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
Our house will be our biggest purchase. Outside of this, I think my biggest spends have been on travel. As a designer and creative, it’s something that not only brings a huge amount of joy to me personally but also helps me professionally.
Is there anything you regret spending money on?
Maybe some skin care products. I only think what works is what you use daily. Being a mum of two and working for myself, I don’t have the time for face routines at the moment, and all it does is remind me of how I can’t indulge in myself. I really appreciate it when I buy things that align with my life now rather than what I see on social media.
Do you haggle over prices?
I never haggle for price. At the age of 28, I started selling silk scarves I made, and I never valued my work. I hated asking people for money for my work, and I really struggled standing by the value I set, which meant that at the start, I was undercharging. If I’m going to buy from someone, I’ll see the value in it without question.
Do you invest in shares and/or cryptocurrency?
We invest in ourselves by reinvesting in our business. It’s probably just as risky as crypto, but it’s worth the punt!
Do you have a retirement or pension plan?
Currently, no. Hopefully, I will be able to get this set up in the near future once we tick off a few other boxes first.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
A lot of our money in 2025 was spent on a new retail location in Galway. Time will tell if it turns out to be value for money.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
At the moment, we are saving for our first home.
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
As a business owner, you are always rolling the dice, but maybe not in the traditional sense. Our latest roll of the dice is our second shop in Galway. Moving from a shop in Dublin to a second shop in Galway is a huge gamble, but hopefully a calculated one that pays off.
What is your best habit when it comes to money? And your worst?
My best habit would be putting money away into my savings each month. My worst would have to be buying too many coffees, but they make me happy and give me the energy I need to sustain my busy life, so I try to justify it.
How much money do you have on you now?
At the moment, I have €2.60. I lost my Leap card and keep forgetting to buy a new one, so I have to carry loose change for the bus. Generally, I never carry cash, I tap for everything.
