fashion

My Summer Story Louise O'Reilly

Embracing Every Moment

This summer (some babeing) friends of RI have been telling us their stories and giving a sizzling synopsis of their plans for the sunny season. This week, as well as a cheeky look at Joey London’s festival exploits, we spent a dreamy day with model and body confidence advocate Louise O’Reilly. Also known as @stylemecurvy, the blond with ambition talks comedy, adventure and beach body love. Warning: things are about to get heated.

Where would your summer story take place?

I love to travel so it would be a little bit of everywhere - The Amalfi Coast, Malta, Greece, and a touch of Manhattan city life.

Who are the major characters?

When I travel it’s usually for work, so I tend to travel solo. In holiday mode, my summer story would be my boyfriend and my closest friends, a place where you can switch off (which can be really hard to do as a blogger).

What genre is your story?

Always a comedy and a touch of adventure is welcomed too!

Will it be filled with lazy summer days or are you an explorer?

I’m definitely an explorer, the odd lazy day is nice, but I love to discover the culture of a destination, trying new things or witnessing views you wouldn’t see anywhere else.

What's your favourite hangout on sunny days?

Phoenix Park is really close to where I live and it’s just a great place to chill. It’s one of the biggest parks in Europe so there’s always something to do if you got bored.

What would we find you eating and drinking?

An Iced Americano and a Mediterranean salad.

What's on the soundtrack to your story?

Lullaby by Paloma Faith. I’m obsessed with her!

Describe your summer style...

You’ll usually find me in a dress. I tend to go for more day-to-night styles. With my job, days can be quite long, so I need looks that can take me anywhere. I never know where I might have to be at short notice.

What couldn't you survive summer without?

I’m a huge beauty fan so probably a good thermal water spray for my skin (L’Occitane is one of my favourites), a Charlotte Tilbury setting powder, Lancôme Hypnose mascara and a lip balm. In terms of fashion, some comfy summer flats, a maxi dress and my oversized sunnies.

As a body image activist, what are your tips for a positive swimsuit season?

Have fun with fashion, don’t settle for typical styles that “just fit”. Push yourself out of your comfort zone with prints and colour finding new styles that make you feel fabulous. I might try on twenty different swimwear styles before I pick the right one.

When it comes to social media I always tell people to be mindful of who you follow online especially during summer when body image is so incredibly heightened. Look to people you can relate to, and with style inspiration look to those who have a similar body type to you. Following accounts where you constantly compare yourself in a “I wish I looked like her or him” capacity will never be of benefit. Lullaby by Paloma Faith. I’m obsessed with her!

Shop the looks...

Plus green scarf print bardot bodycon dress

shop holiday

Hailing from Ireland, Louise O’Reilly is a multi-award-winning blogger and plus model who is passionate about diversity and representation in the industry. No stranger to 18hr days, this girl boss is always on the go and took time out from her exciting schedule to talk summer and style with us. Keep up with O’Reilly via her envy inducing Insta-feed @stylemecurvy