Discover Monaghan Masterclasses, a collection of unique hands-on experiences led by local experts, makers and craftspeople. Perfect for a day trip from Dublin or Belfast, or as part of a relaxing Monaghan getaway.
Sustainable Style Masterclass, with Maria Macklin
Based just outside Carrickmacross, Maria Macklin has built Ireland’s largest full-service ‘House of Colour’ style consultancy. Over the past decade, she has helped hundreds of clients discover confidence through discovering their authentic style.
From colour analysis and wardrobe editing to personal shopping experiences, Maria’s approach focuses on creating a wardrobe that truly reflects the individual whilst reducing waste and unnecessary consumption.
About Maria
Maria has been running the only House of Colour studio and image consultancy in Ireland since 2015. She is invested in ensuring all her clients know how to “Take Their Space” and is committed to showing them how to do that while being sustainably stylish.
She is a go-to spokesperson on finding your authentic style for media outlets including Image, The Gloss and the Irish Times. She has appeared on national television and radio speaking about the subject, too.
What to expect from a masterclass with Maria
Maria’s sustainable style masterclasses offer practical, empowering advice designed to help people shop more consciously, dress with confidence, and make better use of the clothes they already own.
Her studio, a ten-minute drive from Carrickmacross, is a calm, bright space designed specifically for clients to relax, be themselves and enjoy the journey of discovery.
An expert colour consultation will reveal the colours that harmonise with your features. Following a colour consultation, you’ll leave with a colour fan and booklet, make-up advice, links to shopping inspiration and access to an online wardrobe management tool. Come away from a 3-hour session with a cohesive wardrobe, smarter shopping and boosted confidence.
A slightly longer style consultation (4 hours) provides a deep-dive to discover your identity, what makes you special, what is your essence. During this consultation, you’ll learn how to dress for your body architecture and proportions. Maria will help to develop a ‘style blueprint’, which includes comprehensive information about clothing styles that suit you best. You’ll also understand how to express your identity and personality through your clothes so that you feel comfortable and seen for who you are.
A ‘Premium’ session then includes a personal shop accompanied by Maria.
Sustainable Shopping in Co. Monaghan
The pretty market town of Carrickmacross offers a brilliant range of clothing and shoe shops – independently owned and run boutiques with fashion to suit all shapes, ages and budgets. Pick up a designer bargain or discover a pre-loved gem in one of the handful of Carrickmacross charity shops.
The Practicalities
Maria offers both one-on-one and group sessions in her own studio – there are no age requirements or limits.
Prices start from €295 for a personal colour consultation to a complete, immersive ‘VIP packages’ which, depending on the duration, can include accommodation a meal at the award-winning Courthouse Restaurant and a trip to Swallow Studios in Annayalla to meet traditional hand-weaver, Liz Christy.
Also in Carrickmacross
Whilst in Carrickmacross, be sure to visit the Carrickmacross Lace Gallery, home to the world-famous lace which has adorned the wedding dresses of royals; Carrickmacross Workhouse , a heritage centre with an evocative tour led by passionate guides; the Patrick Kavanagh Centre in nearby Inniskeen, to learn about the life and loves of Monaghan’s famous poet; and book in for a tour of Brehon Brewhouse, a micro-brewery set on a working dairy farm.
Make a Stay of It
Accommodation in Carrickmacross includes the centrally located Shirley Arms Hotel and Nuremore Estate, which is on the outskirts of town, with facilities including pool and leisure club.