Longford Ladies Golf Club is treated to a fashion masterclass by Maria Carton

The Longford Ladies’ Golf committee hosted a fashion master class with Maria Carton. It took place on Thursday, October 23 between 8pm and 10pm.

With the room packed out with members from the Golf Club, as well as friends, family and other interested people who wanted to learn more about how to find their style.

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The first hour was explaining body types; the second was giving examples of how to mix-match outfits to make smart-casual combinations. From a stylish rack with plenty to choose from, Maria demonstrated how clothes can bring confidence to any woman. There was a ten minute interval between the two phases of the presentation, to give time to buy €5 raffle tickets.
“This is all about you. Forget the kids and the husband,” said Maria. “This is about really understanding your shape.”

Having worked in fashion all her life, such as Harrods international design room, Carton set up her own business in 2019. She does master classes for fundraisers, group and individual consultations and is a personal shopper. Adding that she has “never looked back” since starting her brand, she gave plenty of fun anecdotes and examples to create discussion and debate.

“Clothes were so luxurious,” she described about her time in Harrods. “Everything was altered and tailored.”

She addressed how fast fashion is the second largest pollutant in the world, and how there are many types of buyers; such as the unconscious (someone who does not notice what they are buying) to the emotional (someone who buys based on how they feel).

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Body shapes were a big discussion. From the rectangle, the pear, the oval to the strawberry, there were comparisons to make for everyone. A rectangle can be into tailored clothes, like Victoria Beckham and Kate Middleton; to the strawberry preferring billowy blouses to add shape. The pear will want a waisted belt. There was a comparison for everyone, which created discussion from the audience who were able to ask questions and challenge ideas.

Carton’s evening was a fundraiser for the upkeep of machinery on the golf course, as told in the introduction. This was through the €5 raffle as well as the €20 tickets to the events.

The evening catered to the various tastes of what the audience wanted, who were able to explore and discuss where they shopped and what they liked. Maria Carton gave comprehensive examples on why finding one’s style will lead to a fuller wardrobe, as well as endless combinations that will not be wasteful or unworn.