Kanturk fashion guru Joan’s key advice on summer trends
AWARD-WINNING ENTREPRENEUR OFFERS TIPS ON WHAT STYLES WILL BE HOT DURING THE COMING SUMMER SEASON
IT’S that time of year when we women shove our dreary winter clothes to the back of the wardrobe and dust off our sizzling summer outfits in readiness for the season ahead.
However, this year it feels frivolous to fret about fashion when there is a potential killer prowling in our midst, and also - why bother buying anything new when it’s unlikely we’ll be going anywhere to wear it? Nevertheless, those of us with a passion for fashion are hoping for brighter days ahead when hopefully ‘we’ll all be together again’.
On that note, The Corkman spoke to Kanturk native and Colour and Image Academy owner Joan Cashman who is one of Ireland’s premier style gurus about how COVID-19 has impacted her life and business and if she has any style tips to cheer us up during these grey times.
Joan agrees the pandemic has negatively impacted most businesses in the country and the closures were especially disappointing for her because she moved into her new studio on Cork’s Academy Street just a few months ago.
“Prior to the lockdown, when social distancing measures were introduced, I made the decision to close my doors, I felt that being proactive was important so as not to put myself or anyone else at risk,” said Joan.
Understandably, people have concerns about their jobs and their futures right now. As a result Joan has been inundated with requests for information about her training programmes.
“I offer intensive courses for personal stylists, colour consultants and makeup artists at my academy. People are eager to re-skill,” she said.
Gift vouchers are also proving popular and she appreciates the support in these current times.
“Receiving the gift of a makeover is always extra special, and now more than ever, women everywhere deserve a boost,” grinned Joan.
“We’ll all appreciate a bit of pampering when this lockdown is over, no doubt we’ll be flocking to the hairdressers, nail bars and beauty salons - I know I will!”
Joan’s gift vouchers include head to toe advice on everything from the right styles for your shape, age, personality, and lifestyle, how you can update your wardrobe with some key new pieces (without breaking the bank) to the finishing touches, and where to get them.
She will teach you how to achieve a fresh and easy makeup look, considering your face shape and colouring - and if a bit more drama is your thing, maybe you have a special occasion coming up, she will show you how to nail it for day or night.
Joan says that the ‘pièce de résistance’ is colour analysis.
“When I put certain colours to your face, you will see how you come alive and how other colours make you look tired and washed out,” she said.
While Joan is as busy as ever on social media she has had to reschedule all ‘ hands on’ consultations.
“I considered holding sessions on Zoom, but I believe that accurate drape testing and body shape analysis has to be done face to face. There are too many variables when it comes to skin tone analysis via video or from a photo. My clients say they are happier to wait until we all feel safe to return to work, hopefully all going well, this means we will be able to open our doors for business from July 20,” she said.
It’s true to say that most women love trying out new looks and make up.
With this in mind Joan is hosting make up demo’s online while the current restrictions are in place.
“I love doing them, however, I must admit it is a bit of a learning curve. I’m just videoing away on my phone. I’m no expert but as they say, every day is a school day and people don’t seem to mind. They get what I’m doing and the response and appreciation for my makeup demos have been phenomenal. I cannot thank people enough for their lovely comments and encouragement to keep them going during these trying times,” said Joan.
“All our lives have been turned upside down, so these tutorials give me a way to keep in touch with my tribe and I enjoy nothing better than being able to share my craft with easy to follow tutorials, including helpful tips they can do at home. Makeup is a lot of fun. You can create gorgeous looks in minutes, so if boredom is setting in and you’re feeling restless with no place to go, my 5-minute tutorials on IGTV,
Facebook and Instagram, will hopefully help you pass the time and I provide the encouragement to try out these simple yet effective techniques.”
Joan notes that makeup can also be powerful therapy, boosting mood and confidence.
“Putting on makeup can give us a sense of well-being, looking after ourselves and maintaining a daily routine especially in this climate when other things around us are so much harder to control is vital.”
Meanwhile, the lockdown has given Joan time to stop and catch her breath.
“I must admit I’m enjoying the down time and the absence of deadlines. I have cleaned out the cupboards and did a major ‘Marie Kondo’ of my office and wardrobe - she would be proud of the result,” she said.
Joan has many more strings to her bow than readers may be aware of.
“I’ve dusted off my accordion and have it within arm’s reach so the minute I hear a rousing tune on John Creedon’s ‘Fleadh
Cheoil’ I can pick it up and play along. I love Liam O’ Connor and Bobby Gardner’s styles - no better way to fill your day than with the sound of music” she said.
Joan is also creating a brandnew website and working hard on new content for that.
“And I finally have time to dedicate to my book that I hope to publish down the line. Loads to keep me going,” she smiled.
However, this enterprising lady is ready to hit the ground running once the restrictions are over.
“I’m really excited about going back to work in my new studio so the pedal will be floored making up for lost time,” she said.
Joan has won more awards than most of us have had hot dinners, and this year she has again been nominated for the Tia Maria Beauty Awards.
The nominations are in two categories, including the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award which is due to take place on August30.