How Annmarie O’Connor wears raffia, no matter the summer weather in Ireland

I am a repeat raffia offender. Guilty as charged.

Once the temperature vaguely resembles summer, my Sézane ‘Farrow’ bag and ‘Anya’ braided court shoes are out out.

I’m not averse to a straw moment either. Ditto for palm or bamboo cousins. Anything crafty, in fact, has my attention. Here’s why.

Aside from picnics in the park and holidays abroad, the tactile fabric works magic in Ireland.

On days when Mother Nature puts the kibosh on floaty sundresses, a crafty accessory can inject the right amount of seasonal whimsy without looking like you missed your flight to the South of France.

My style tips? I like adding a straw bag to a knit dress and denim jacket or teaming raffia heels with jeans and a nice top.

Even small touches like a raffia belt give the right amount of texture to a minimalist tank top and maxi skirt. The high street delivers here.

Think small investment for high sartorial return. Ditto for artisan goodies like palm or bamboo earrings worn with an oversized shirt and slip skirt.

Otherwise, try my comfy go-to: linen trousers casually rolled up and worn with raffia sandals and a Merino wool sweater because you know—Ireland.

Tempted by fashion’s folly, I often wish I lived somewhere warmer if only to give Farm Rio’s fringed raffia dress a wiggle.

At the moment, a pair of strappy heels, cocktail in hand and the heat on high might be my best bet. In the meantime, I’ll be brushing up on my manifesting skills.

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