A MAN in uniform may be a cliche but for three NYCbased designers it became their modus operandi. They started importing workwear to sell to city slickers and the idea developed into the label Operations, which uses uniforms as a blueprint for designs. Available from Gentlemen Please, 2 Townyard Lane, Malahide, Co Dublin (01 816 8719);

47 Main Street, Blackrock, Co Dublin, (01 278 8788); and 1 Adelaide Road, Glasthule, Co Dublin (01 2809595).

TRUE BLUE

Regular Grazia readers will have clocked last week's announcement of a 'new blue' in fashion which is less heady than the electric '80s blue we've been seeing over the last few seasons and more of a sophisticated, toned-down shade. This dress by b. young gets it just right, and at less than 70 it's a new-season must-buy.

Dress, 69.90, b. young. (For stockists call 1890 44 66 88. )