In My StylewithMary McCartney

In My Style spoke to Mary who was Miss Northern Ireland in 1993 and has been modelling since then for ACA Models, appearing in numerous TV commercials, photo shoots and catwalk shows.

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am married to Terry, owner of the Belmore Court & Motel and I have two amazing teenage kids – Lewis (17) and Ellie (15).

I enjoy going to “Push Fitness by TMC” four times a weeks for weight training, spinning or circuits.

I’ve had to set up a makeshift gym in the garage during lockdown with some of their equipment.

Weekends are usually spent going to swimming galas, as the kids both swim competitively.

I love to watch real – life crime documentaries and enjoy reading autobiographies or Harlan Coben books.

How would you describe your personal style

I would say it is classic/smart/casual. At my age I know what works for me and I tend to stick with it.

I value longevity over trends and have an established and trusted look that is both timeless and flattering with a smart flair.

I always add a pop of colour or pattern to add texture to my look.

Where do you find style inspiration?

I tend to follow a lot of local style bloggers on Instagram as they promote local boutiques and high street affordable brands.

“@kerrysweekdaywardrobe” is my friend’s page. She’s also a teacher who works with me so I get lots of ideas from her daily posts.

“@lisas_lust_list” is another good one.

I also like Pippa O’Connor’s style.

Do you read fashion magazines and if so, which ones?

I don’t read them as much as I used to.

When I’m travelling I will always buy Vogue or Grazia at the airport. Mostly, I prefer to look online or use social media for style inspiration.

What is the best style advice you’ve received and who gave it to you?

Show skin selectively. Don’t give people too many things to look at all at once.

My mum always drummed into me and my sisters about modesty and how to let your presence do the talking.

What is your favourite fashion trend at the moment and why?

I love Victoria Beckham’s high - waisted wide leg trousers. They accentuate your waist and make your legs look really long.

What’s the oldest item in your wardrobe and what is so special about it?

I still have my swimsuit that I wore at the Miss NI final in 1993, although I won’t be wearing it anytime soon!

I also have a midnight blue velvet fitted blazer given to me by my mother-in-law, Caroline.

It’s a perfect fit for me and it goes so well with jeans and a white t – shirt. It must be 50 years old!

And the most recent?

A full length sequined dress from My Sister’s Closet, Belfast for a sports awards ceremony. It was a real bargain in their sale!

Do you keep things in your wardrobe that you haven’t ever worn?

Yes, but not for long as I like to wear what I buy almost immediately! However because of the travel restrictions I haven’t been able to wear my holiday clothes that I purchased for a postponed holiday to the Maldives for our wedding anniversary.

What was your worst fashion mistake?

I once had a puff ball skirt in the late 80’s. Never again!

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought, clothing-wise?

I remember buying a full length cream faux fur coat when I was pregnant with Ellie and I couldn’t even close it at the front!

I knew it was a classic buy but felt guilty about paying so much so I left it back an hour later.

The following week I went back and bought it again and I still wear it for formal nights out to this day. I love it and it reminds me of that special time, waiting on our new arrival.

What is your favourite item of clothing and why?

My Armani jeans from Grahams, Enniskillen. They fit my shape perfectly and still look smart with a crisp white shirt and blazer.

What are your favourite colours for clothes and why?

Bright coloured tops with black, navy or white bottoms, depending on the season.

I wear a lot of red, royal blue, turquoise, navy and obviously black. Royal blue brings out the colour of my eyes and black goes with everything.

I seldom wear green or purple.

What shoes do you wear most often and do you have a particular favourite pair - if so why are they your favourites?

I have a pair of silver sneakers which I wear at the weekends.

They match everything and are comfortable for shopping and going to swimming galas with the kids.

My favourite pair of shoes are my black sling-back Louboutins that I got for my 40th birthday.

What are your fashion pet hates?

Accessory overload! When people wear too much faux bling. Sparkles look best in moderation and accessories should be chosen carefully so as not to overdo it.

Who are your style heroes?

Pippa O’Connor, Victoria Beckham, Kate Middleton

What fragrance do you wear?

“Si” by Giorgio Armani

What accessories do you normally use?

I love scarves and have them in all colours and designs. I also love a statement necklace. I seldom wear earrings.

Do you think you can be fashionable without spending a lot of money?

Absolutely! Lots of high street shops are selling their own versions of high end fashion at a fraction of the price.

What are your favourite local shops and why?

MSC (My Sister’s Closet), Belfast and Dublin – affordable fashion with a touch of glam.

Donna and Anita have crafted their business to include a lifestyle blog. They have a huge online following!

Queen Bee, Fivemiletown – for that special wedding or VIP event, Linda Beacom will have you kitted out with elegance.

Harry and George, Enniskillen – they have smart casual wear for work and the weekend.

Owners Edel & Sabrina have tailored the collections to not just meet, but exceed the evolving demands & expectations of the modern woman.

Graham’s Womanswear, Enniskillen – they have great customer service.

Wendy stocks a range of designer labels – Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren, Armani, Tommy Hilfiger to name a few.

I’ve bought several pairs of Armani jeans here over the years.

Shuphoric, Enniskillen – Patrick Conlon knows how to promote his business brilliantly online.

I bought the most comfortable pair of Italian navy leather boots here last winter.