Dunnes Stores has recently launched a striking striped co-ord set that has swiftly captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts. The ensemble, which includes a long blazer and matching shorts, is being hailed as an affordable alternative to similar styles found at higher-end retailers like Mango.

Fashion influencer Debbie Dwan, who shares her style tips on Instagram under the handle @debbie.dwan, enthusiastically reviewed the new set, noting that the total price for both pieces is just €55. She praised the quality of the fabric, mentioning, “This could be Mango, but it was Dunnes. The quality is excellent. It’s lined.”

Dwan highlighted the versatility of the outfit, explaining, “The great thing about this type of outfit is you can mix and match. You’re going to wear these as separates all the time.” She suggested pairing the blazer and shorts with denim or a simple t-shirt for a casual look.

Details of the Collection

The collection features the Gallery Pinstripe Longline Waistcoat, priced at €30, which boasts a classic round neckline and a sleek pinstripe design. The waistcoat, designed to be worn with the matching shorts, is available in sizes ranging from 8 to 18.

According to Dunnes Stores, the pleated shorts retail for €25 and are designed to blend structure with comfort. They feature tailored belt loops, a concealed closure, and classic detailing with side pockets. The shorts are also available in sizes 8 to 18, although size 8 is reportedly sold out online.

Dwan cautioned potential shoppers, saying, “It’s going to sell out online really fast, I would say. I got mine yesterday, I think I ordered it the day before.” She also mentioned that there are plenty of pieces available in-store, encouraging fans to check local outlets.

Additional Offerings

In addition to the pinstripe set, Dwan also purchased the Gallery Knitted Waistcoat in cream for just €25. She described it as a fine-knit piece that offers a flattering shape thanks to its unique triangular design. “Of course, I love the gold hardware,” she added.

The knitted waistcoat features a classic V-neck and a button-through front accented with hammered gold buttons, along with split detailing that adds a modern touch to a timeless style. The Gallery collection is exclusive to Dunnes Stores, further enhancing its appeal among shoppers.

Dunnes Stores has a long history in Ireland, dating back to its first opening on March 31, 1944, in St Patrick’s Street, County Cork. The launch caused quite a stir, with locals flocking to the store, which offered bargain clothing at “pre-war prices.”

As the retailer continues to expand, it now operates 138 stores across Europe, including 118 in the Republic of Ireland and 15 in Northern Ireland, along with five locations in Spain. The company currently employs over 18,000 people and remains a staple for household shopping in Ireland.

The recent launch of the striped co-ord set reflects Dunnes Stores’ ongoing commitment to providing quality fashion at accessible prices, further solidifying its position as a leading retailer in Europe.

A British tourist visiting the popular holiday destination of Benidorm, Spain, recently expressed his astonishment at the affordable prices of meals at a local McDonald’s. The TikTok user, known as Harry and posting under the handle @harrytokky, shared his experience with followers, highlighting the low cost and scenic view from the fast-food restaurant.

Upon entering the establishment, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, Harry remarked, “Could this be the nicest McDonald’s in the whole entire world?” Despite the stunning backdrop, he humorously noted that he was primarily motivated by his craving for a Happy Meal.

Harry detailed his meal, which included two burgers, two fries, two drinks, and chicken nuggets, all for just €11. He exclaimed, “I mean, €11? What do you think guys? I think that’s an absolute bargain. In the UK, that’d probably be at least £20.” The post captured the attention of many, with some viewers praising the value for money while others critiqued the service speed.

Mixed Reactions from Customers

Commenters on Harry’s TikTok video had varying opinions about the Benidorm McDonald’s experience. Some noted that the service could be slow, while others felt the wait was worthwhile. One user shared that they had enjoyed the “best Big Mac” ever at this location, while another pointed out that it offered “the best view” under the iconic Golden Arches.

Reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor also reflect a range of experiences. One patron described the restaurant as a “fantastic” spot for inexpensive food while on vacation in Spain. Another reviewer recounted a positive experience, stating, “I got the McCrispy Burger meal, and we got the bacon & cheese wedges for sharing, and it was all so delicious!” They noted that while the food was slightly colder than expected, the cleanliness of the restaurant and the friendliness of the staff made for a pleasant visit.

The use of ordering machines that accommodate multiple languages was also highlighted positively, showcasing the convenience offered to international visitors. Many customers left satisfied, with one concluding, “Will definitely be recommending to friends and family.”

As tourism continues to thrive in Benidorm, establishments like this McDonald’s are proving to be not only popular for their meals but also for the unique dining experiences they offer.

A fashion enthusiast has discovered a stylish holiday dress at Dunnes Stores that combines comfort with practicality, available for just €15. The A-Line Jersey Dress, praised for its “relaxed feel” and added pockets, can be found both online and in stores across Ireland.

The dress stands out as an ideal option for warm weather or as a cover-up for beach outings. Fashion influencer Ashling Muldowney recently showcased the dress on Instagram, garnering attention for its vibrant red hue and practical design. She noted, “Another great holiday dress from Dunnes Stores’ own brand. I’m 5ft 5. I’m wearing the small. Definitely size down.” Her post encouraged followers to share their thoughts in the comments.

The dress is available in various shades, including a striking fuchsia, navy, and two distinct black-and-white patterns. Its design features a flowing silhouette, round neckline, and thin straps, along with convenient side pockets for a laid-back vibe. It caters to a broad audience, offered in sizes ranging from XS to XXL. Currently, every size is still available for purchase online.

According to Dunnes Stores, the dress is designed to be an effortless choice for warm days, highlighting its soft drape and relaxed fit. The official description emphasizes the inclusion of side seam pockets, enhancing its practicality for everyday wear.

Customer reactions to Ashling’s post reflect the dress’s appeal, with many praising its aesthetic. Comments included enthusiastic remarks such as “Love it,” “Gorgeous on you,” and “Perfect for wearing to the beach.”

Brief History of Dunnes Stores

Founded in 1944 in Cork, Dunnes Stores has a rich history in the retail landscape of Ireland. The first store opened on Patrick Street and quickly became a local favorite, offering quality clothing at competitive prices. The excitement surrounding its launch was so high that it drew large crowds, necessitating police assistance to manage the influx of shoppers eager for founder Ben Dunne’s “Better Value” deals.

Over the decades, Dunnes Stores expanded, opening additional locations throughout the 1950s and introducing grocery sales in 1960. Initially, the grocery selection focused on basic items like apples and oranges, but it has since evolved into a comprehensive range of products sourced from both local and international suppliers. The first Dublin store opened in 1957, with further expansion into Northern Ireland in 1971 and beyond into Spain, Scotland, and England.

Today, Dunnes Stores operates 142 stores and employs approximately 15,000 people, continuing to uphold its commitment to value and quality in retail. The recent launch of the A-Line Jersey Dress exemplifies the brand’s dedication to offering fashionable yet affordable clothing options for consumers.

Dáithí Ó Sé, a prominent Irish television presenter, highlights the growing awareness among the public regarding sun safety, but he insists there is still significant progress to be made. In a recent conversation with Extra.ie, Ó Sé reminisced about the past when bringing baby oil on holiday was commonplace. He noted that such practices are now largely viewed as outdated.

Reflecting on his own journey, Ó Sé revealed that he has transitioned from using minimal sunscreen to applying factor 50 every time he steps outside, a change driven by a personal health scare two years ago. “I don’t go out any day now without factor 50,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of consistent sun protection throughout the year. He added, “Even if it’s a cloudy day, even if I’m sitting inside in the car, it’s factor 50 in the morning and factor 50 in the afternoon.”

Ó Sé’s heightened vigilance about sun safety began after he discovered a small lump on his eyebrow, which he initially dismissed. However, a professional examination in early 2023 revealed it was a localized carcinoma, prompting surgery that involved cutting into the muscle around his eyebrow. He described this experience as a wake-up call regarding the dangers of sun exposure, stating, “It was only two millimeters, so I didn’t think it could be much… But she said, ‘No, it’s going to have to come out.’”

The diagnosis led Ó Sé to inquire about the cause of his condition, to which the specialist attributed it directly to sun damage from inadequate protection over the years. “I might not have taken much notice of warnings linking sun exposure to cancer around 10 years ago,” he acknowledged, adding that he had typically used lower protection, such as factor 10 or factor 15.

Research indicates that only three in ten men in Ó Sé’s age group consistently use sunscreen during the summer, a stark contrast to the approximately half of women who do. This discrepancy highlights a significant gap in sun safety awareness among men, particularly those aged 18 to 35, which Ó Sé attributes to a lack of education on the topic.

As he prepares for the upcoming 2025 Rose of Tralee festival, Ó Sé has adopted other healthy habits, including abstaining from alcohol until the event concludes. “It’s just a very busy time. I want to keep my head in a good place, so I’m minding myself,” he explained. He humorously anticipates celebrating once the festival is over, saying, “I’ve been waiting for this now.”

Despite criticism that the festival may be seen as outdated or regressive, Ó Sé remains steadfast in his belief that the event serves an important purpose. He stated, “For me, why it’s important and it works is that it is a celebration of Irish women. And when is a celebration of Irish women out of date? Never.” Ó Sé pointed out that the festival reflects the evolving career options and life experiences of Irish women and the diaspora over the decades.

He acknowledged that while there will always be detractors, the overall interest in the festival remains strong. “There’s a really positive appetite as well, and I think people are beginning to see it for what it is,” he said, emphasizing the enduring value of the event in celebrating Irish culture and heritage.

As Ó Sé prepares for another year as host, his commitment to both health and the celebration of Irish women highlights the evolving landscape of cultural events in Ireland.