2 On the Rocks With Mother's Day on the horizon (it's Sunday 26 March if you want to mark it now), you have lots of time to think beyond flowers in favour of something really special - such as some personally commissioned jewellery by a local craftsperson. Kilkenny-based Carl Parker trained as a sculptor before moving into jewellery design with signature pieces such as this pendant, which contains aTahitian black pearl. He is available for commissions and works to any brief. Pendant, ¤300. Carl Parker, Castlecomer Estate Yard, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny, Tel: 0564440876.

3 The 'It' Coat Call it mustard, custard or lemon curd, there is something refreshingly mouthwatering about fashion's continuing love for yellow this season - a colour you will find in everything from delicate knitwear to soft leathers right up until late spring when it will turn up in neon for beach bags, pretty sandals and plastic sunglasses. This 60s-style pea coat, with its child-like pockets and three-quarter length sleeves, ticks all the boxes for this season - it would look as great with leggings and slip-ons as with a mini dress, hair band and boots. Buy it now.

Coat, ¤124, River Island.

4 Diamond Geezer If you are steeling yourself to pop the question this Valentine's day you are probably taking every precaution to ensure the right ring. So, if you are feeling the pressure and don't want to make a hasty last-minute decision, why not try a cocktail ring, replacing it with a 'real' engagement ring you can shop for together? Shhh in Dundrum specializes in simulated diamonds from ¤80; see www. secrets-shhh. eu. If you do want to take the plunge, we love this white gold vintage look ring from Design Yard. Ring, ¤1,870, Design Yard in Whichcraft, Nassau Street, Dublin 2.

5 Back to Base All hail the country gent as old-style brogues storm back onto the scene. No longer the preserve of the over-50s, these waxy brown shoes are going to look as good with an argyle sweater and jeans as they will with cords and a cotton sweatshirt. It's all about mixing up the vintage and the new in men's fashion this season, and thin Oxford laced-up brogues are a good start. Watch your girlfriend's beady eyes too as brogues are also a huge new trend for women now. Lloyd shoe, ¤104.95, by Base, available in Schuh, Office, Dolcis, Giselle and other top retailers.