Today Show stylist Caroline Downey shares some of her favourite trends and looks that she has seen so far this season.
The Today Show is back for Season 14, and I couldn't be more thrilled to be returning as one of the weekly stylists alongside Maura, Dáithí and Sinéad.
Every week I get to showcase some of Ireland’s best-loved brands and designers, and honestly, it never feels like work – it’s pure fun. Styling, for me, is showing people how to play with fashion rather than take it too seriously. I always feel that you should dress for yourself.
For my first two shows back, I went all in on bold seasonal trends with looks that are glamorous, wearable, and a little bit playful. Here are some of my favourites:
1. Burgundy & Faux Fur Glam
Autumn/Winter calls for a bit of drama, and nothing delivers like a faux fur coat. For this look, I paired a chic black faux fur coat from Carraig Donn with a burgundy halter-neck midi dress from Pala D'oro.
Burgundy is the colour of the season, and this dress, with its flattering silhouette and elegant length, is the perfect piece for special occasions or just when you want to feel fabulous.
Add the soft texture of faux fur, and you’ve got an outfit that’s equal parts cosy and sophisticated, exactly what we need as we feel the temperatures drop.
2. Brown Tones & Carrie Bradshaw Vibes
Brown is having a major moment, and Pamela Scott has really nailed the trend this season.
I chose a vintage-inspired faux leather peplum jacket with strong shoulders and a cinched waist – it’s one of those miracle pieces that instantly flatters by creating an hourglass shape.
To keep things fun, I paired it with a flowing polka-dot tulle skirt. The mix of textures gives the outfit movement and a playful feel, almost like something Carrie Bradshaw would twirl down a New York street in.
And because no autumn look is complete without the right footwear, we finished it off with cream ankle boots.
These are so versatile – they go with skirts, dresses, or trousers – and with a little kitten heel, they’re as practical as they are stylish.
3. Chic Layers
The final look comes from Memories Boutique in Carlingford, sticking to the brown trend but with a softer, layered approach. A cream shawl draped over the shoulders creates instant elegance, whether you’re dressing for day or night.
Underneath, I styled a cosy brown cardigan worn as a top, with delicate pearl and diamanté-style buttons that Maura absolutely loved; she called it one of those timeless wardrobe pieces you’ll reach for again and again.
To bring in a bit of edge, we couldn’t resist a leopard-print tulle skirt, proving once again that leopard never really goes out of style. Paired with Kate Appleby boots, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and style.
