by Louise O’Dwyer
A natural beauty, exuding calmness, confidence, and a quiet dignity, Fiona Carson grew up on the family farm about four kilometres west of Schull, where she lives today after converting the ruins of an old building where she played as a child into her home. Fiona speaks proudly of her roots. Her maiden name, O’Mahony, has a long and rich history in this part of West Cork. The O’Mahony clan once ruled a significant part of West Cork in the early seventeenth century. Fourteen of their castles were built along the coastline, and many of them still remain today. The closest to Fiona’s home is Leamcon Castle, while one of the oldest is Dunlough Castle, also known as ‘Three Castle Head’.
Fiona works remotely as an accountant for a group of companies based in Killarney. Working this way allows her to stay at home and enjoy life surrounded by nature.
She tries to spend as much of her free time outdoors as possible. She loves long walks along the country roads with her collie, enjoys gardening, and in summer swims from the local pier about a mile from the house. Another of her passions is yoga.
Interestingly, there was once a very different side to her life – together with her husband, she competed in ballroom dancing. At that time, her wardrobe was full of long, flowing dresses embellished with sequins and crystal jewellery. These days, she rarely thinks about fashion, as most of her time is spent at home or around the village. But when an occasion does arise, she still enjoys wearing something beautiful and elegant, although comfort always remains her priority.
For Fiona fashion comes down to personal taste. If a person carries themselves with confidence – head held high and shoulders back – they can look wonderful in any outfit. She also believes that women today are placed under too much pressure, even when it comes to something as personal as hair colour. She has chosen to embrace natural change and calmly watches her hair gradually transform from brunette to a beautiful silver shade.
When I invited Fiona to take part in my photoshoot, she was surprised. But she decided to take the opportunity – to step outside her comfort zone and try something completely new.
Look 1
A beautiful example of modern understated elegance, where comfort and style are perfectly balanced.
The main focus is a soft beige poncho with fringe. Its relaxed silhouette creates beautiful movement and brings a sense of lightness to the outfit. The chocolate roll-neck underneath adds depth and makes the look feel more polished and composed.
Slim turned-up jeans balance the volume of the top, while leopard-print ballet flats bring character and a contemporary edge – exactly the kind of detail that makes an outfit feel alive and interesting.
The accessories are kept simple and considered: statement earrings and wide bracelets support the colour palette and add individuality.
This is the look of a modern woman who chooses comfort while remaining elegant.
Stylist’s tip: If you wear volume on top, always balance it with a slimmer shape below or show the ankle – it visually lengthens the silhouette and keeps the outfit feeling light.
Look 2
Depth of colour and understated femininity with character.
A monochrome look in a rich turquoise-blue shade creates a refined, elegant silhouette. The pleated dress adds softness and movement, while the leather jacket structures the outfit and brings in a sense of modern confidence.
The jewellery becomes the main accent here – a bold necklace and matching earrings deepen the colour story and make the look more expressive, almost artistic.
Simple shoes complete the composition without drawing attention away from it.
This is the look of a woman who combines strength and refinement while staying true to herself and her personal style.
Stylist’s tip: Don’t be afraid to build an outfit around one colour – play with different textures, such as leather, knitwear, and silk, to make it feel layered and stylish.
Look 3
Confident eclecticism.
The paisley-print dress sets the tone: feminine, dynamic, and instantly eye-catching. The soft silhouette and midi length make it versatile, while the belt defines the waist, adding structure and balance.
A contrasting leather jacket brings modernity and a subtle edge to the look – it is exactly this element that grounds the romantic feel of the dress and makes the outfit feel more current.
The accessories work as accents: a small textured bag and jewellery in turquoise tones echo the print, creating harmony in the details. Gold-toned shoes add light and a sense of completion.
This is the look of a woman who is not afraid to combine prints, textures, and character – and does so with ease and natural confidence.
Stylist’s tip: With a strong print, add one grounding piece – such as a leather jacket. It makes the outfit feel modern and stops it from looking too dressy or overloaded.
Stylist and photographer: Galyna Zaitseva.
