Fashion Fix with Annmarie O'Connor

New York-born fashion journalist and blogger Annmarie O'Connor has been working as a style writer for outlets such as Dazed and Confused, Elle, Image, The Dubliner, The Irish Independent, The Irish Examiner and Prudence. She gives us an insight into her thoughts on fashion.

You're clearly a fan of fashion. Do you enjoy experimenting with your look?

Absolutely. Even though I've managed to suss out my own style, I still bore easily. It's always a risk trying out something new but worthwhile when you get it right. The times when things go horrendously wrong can be chalked up to experience and will make a good (big!) book one day!

Who is your fashion icon or your greatest influence in matters of style?

Jackie O for effortless chic by far.

What is your essential beauty item that must be in your handbag at all times?

Not so much an item as a kit at my age but if I had to single out one product it would be moisturiser. I've been using SKIN.NY Radical Restructure Complex for years and I absolutely swear by it. Second to that would be lip gloss and mascara. Without mascara I look like a mole.

What is your favourite item of clothing that you've ever purchased?

I bought an opulent gold-stitched Moroccan-style gown in Portobello Market for £15 which is my prize possession.

How important is fashion in the world of the music/film industry?

I think they feed into one another. Fashion promotes music and film; and vice versa. The Oscars for instance is as important a platform for fashion as it is for cinema. In fact, Hollywood seems more unforgiving about bad wardrobe choices than film roles!

How would you describe your personal style?

Vintage London. I like to give retro influences a contemporary urban edge.

Who is your favourite designer? And your favourite high street store?

The list is endless but overall I love John Rocha and Joanne Hynes for simple edgy cuts and Topshop gets my vote for finger-on-the-pulse trend spotting.

What is your favourite city to shop in and why?

I love London. I used to live near Brick Lane and shopped in Laden Showrooms, Relik and Beyond Retro for vintage and independent labels. You also can't beat the markets in Spitalfields and Portobello for quirky finds.

What do you feel best wearing?

Dresses and heels. I feel taller, slimmer and ready to go anywhere (with a spare pare of ballerina flats in my bag...always!).

What is the best style advice you have been given?

Invest in good capsule wardrobe of interchangeable basics. If you get that right, you'll have less 'I have nothing to wear' days. I thank my Mom for that.

Read more of Annmarie's work at her blog here.