Health, Beauty and Lifestyle with Denise McNamara

They’re obviously dedicated followers of fashion in Claregalway. It was a full house jam-packed into the gorgeous drawing room of the riverside Claregalway Castle to witness the first fashion show of GM Boutique.

Owner Geraldine Mullen opened the women’s shop two years ago but she is no newbie to the world of retail.

She worked for a decade in the beloved high street store Sasha before working in The Schoolwear Centre. She opened her own GM Schoolwear Claregalway and decided to go one step further and open an adjoining boutique in the busy village after being constantly asked about opening a fashion outlet.

It was a stunning venue for the fashion show, which was preceded by a jazz set with the gorgeous Michelle Lally before the room was transformed into a catwalk for the models from Mandy Maher’s agency.

Geraldine reveals that the trends she is seeing for Autumn Winter 24 is everything neutral and cream.

“Also lovely burgundy and brown are very strong in colour. The teddy coats are really working as well as the faux fur coats. The key piece I am recommending to customers for the season is wide leg jeans or flares. Prints and abstracts are very strong as well.”

Since opening at the unit behind Hughes’ Supervalu, she is attracting more customers who would previously have travelled ot the city.

“I am noticing that there is a greater demand for local shops since Covid as people do not want to make the trip into Galway city due to the traffic congestion and having to pay for parking. Customers much prefer the convenience of no traffic, free car parking and we offer a personalised service where we help you to find the perfect outfit.”

It’s a difficult time for small business owners but Geraldine is optimistic about sustaining her patch by focusing on community.

“It’s important to build relationships with the community to drive footfall, host events and support local causes.”

Pictured from left to right: Photo 1:  Deck short sleeve turtleneck jumper €55.00, Deck leopard print skirt €85.00, Deck leather belt €25.95 Photo 2: Deck Black casual cardigan €67, Deck black and gold t-shirt €35, Deck leather joggers €70, Deck knit scarf €30 and matching hat €25. Photo 3: Deck baby blue polo neck jumper €85, Deck cream scarf €30 and matching hat €25, Deck sparkle trousers €80.