Frequently Asked Questions

I believe that clothes are meant to work with a woman’s body regardless of her size and shape and I have always loved fluid designs that do not restrict or feel uncomfortable. The collection comes in three sizes. The size 1 is designed to fit a size 8 to 12, the size 2 is designed to fit sizes 14 to 18, and the size 3 is designed to fit sizes 20 to 24.

This is a rough guide. The Ailbhe Dress in particular is quite generous, as is the Ailbhe Top. A 14 will easily fit the size 1, and a good 20 will fit the size 2, etc. The only real restriction in the fit of this style is across the shoulders. I have had the size 1 on a customer who wears a size 16 because of her bust, but she is very narrow in the shoulders and hips, and the size 2 was just too big on her. Sizing in garments is really more about shape than it is to do with measurements.

The Críoa Dress and Top are also very flexible in their sizing. This shape is definitely more narrow across the hip than the Ailbhe design, but allows for an ample bust. Again the size 1 is designed to fit sizes 8 to 12, but a 14 who is straight in the hip will work in the size 1 etc. It is definitely a generous cut.

The Saibh Trousers are more true to their sizing: size 1, 8 to 12, size 2, 14 to 18 and size 3, 20 to 24. The waist is fully elasticated so they will accommodate three sizes, but I wouldn’t be advising the size 14 to get the size 1 the way I would in the tops and dresses.

If you are a 14/16, or a 18/20 in particular do not hesitate to contact me directly to ask for sizing advice, I will be able to chat with you about which size I would suggest depending on your shape and proportions.

No each item is sold individually. If you are ordering the Críoa Dress or Top, you must also add the Bairbre Bow to your cart if you want to purchase it too. Same with the Ailbhe Dress and Top, the matching Aobh Sleeves are sold separately and must be added to your cart.

Yes absolutely, and we would love you to do so! The whole idea behind Monessa Joan is that you can mix and match it and purchase it whatever way you want. If you want a navy dress and a pink bow, then you simply purchase those items. If you want a red dress with pink sleeves, then go right ahead and do that. We love to see it.

Yes of course you can. The two belts are great pieces that will work with lots of other items already in your wardrobe. Do be aware though that the Bairbre Bow is attached with buttons holes and buttons that are specific to the Críoa Dress and Top.

The Aobh Sleeves are attached with snap fasteners, so they will only work with the Ailbhe Dress and Top, as they have the matching opposite side of the poppers encased in the armholes.

But yes, if you have already purchased the red Críoa Dress and the red Bairbre Bow for an event and you are thinking now of getting the pink bow instead of the red, then yes, absolutely you can just purchase the Bairbre Bow in pink.

All items can be machine washed at 30° degrees Celsius. Do not use a high spin, and do not tumble dry. Use a cool iron setting. I would be careful with the Cara Cinch Belt in the machine and would simply handwash the fabric part of the belt. Each item can also be dry cleaned on a P cycle should you prefer.

Our stunning satin backed crepe fabric is made up of 80% Triacetate and 20% Polyester. Triacetate is a semi synthetic fabric made from the naturally based fibre wood pulp. It is known for its beautiful shine, luxurious feel, wonderful drape and impressive durability. When we went sourcing fabrics, nothing else compared to this. We fell in love with the feel and the drape, and were delighted to learn about its superior shape retention, excellent breathability and resistance to shrinkage.

We are very proud to be stocked in four fabulous boutiques around the
country. Please see our stockist page here. Please bear in mind that the shops
do not carry the full range of styles, colours, or sizes, so always check with
them before you make a special trip. Alternatively, you can purchase online
directly from us. We may run appointment only showcases from time to time, so
do let us know if that is something you would be interested in. We get it,
buying online can be difficult, but we are here to help with any questions you
may have.

Generally sold out pieces will be restocked within a three to four week time frame. We do not take pre orders online. But feel free to contact us directly if you want to preorder a certain piece, and we ill be able to give you a definite delivery time line.