Clodagh Mckenna

Clodagh McKenna trained as a chef at Ballymaloe Cookery School and then went on to work as a chef in Ballymaloe House for 3 years. After an inspiring visit to the Midleton Market, Clodagh decided to leave the kitchen and set up her own stall. Since then she has penned several books and appeared in programmes for RTE, BBC, ITV and UKTV. Clodagh took on the fashion world with her ‘glam’ kitchenware range of personally designed 1950’s-inspired aprons. As she prepares to launch her latest venture, new magazine HOMEMADE, we caught up with the ever-glam chef to discuss all things sartorial.

What five words best describe your style?
Oh that’s a hard one but I’ll give it a go… Vintage, Comfortable, Irish (in that I try and wear as many Irish designers as possible), Ever-changing (hopefully for the better!), and anti-bling!

Best style tip?
Buy a good bra! It can change your whole shape, from the way a dress falls and how you carry yourself.

Favourite item in your wardrobe right now?
A dress by Eilis Boyle – it’s like stepping into a dream… have a look at www.eilisboyle.com and you’ll see what I mean!

What’s in your handbag right now?
Smythson notebook, Mont Blanc pen, neck warmer by Wendy Crawford (Wendy’s Wardrobe), fingerless cashmere gloves by Eilis Boyle and the proofs of my new magazine HOMEMADE.

Worst and/or best shopping experience?
The best was finding a store in Turin, Italy called Sticky Fingers – incredible vintage clothes. It’s on Via delle Orfane, 24, if any of you every make it to Turin in Northern Italy.

Best high street store?
Awear just for the new collect by Peter O’Brien, I think it’s fabulous. Check out it here.

Favourite place to shop?
BOW in Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, Dublin.

Favourite fashion haunts on the web?
www.helpmystyle.ie of course! You’ve got great tips. I also love www.style.com for updates on collections and http://sallyjanevintage.blogspot.com the images are so gorgeous, I love her style.

Worst fashion moment?
My wetgear on my last show ‘Fresh From The Sea’. But it was practical just a pity that everyone had to see it!

Who epitomises great style?
There are lots of people who epitomise style for me… Bella Freud, Sienna Miller, Jade Jagger, Jo Wood – the list goes on…!

What era of style would you most like see return to fashion?
1920’s, the people of that generation (both men and women) went to such great efforts to create such beautiful style.

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