Borrowing grandad’s clothes for a show isn’t exactly what Sarah Jane Wai O’Flynn likes to do. The frontwoman of the Dirty Epics is intent on bringing a little sparkle back to the stage. As a teenager growing up in Co. Wicklow, her style oscillated from stretchies and Get A Grips through raver camo to items picked up in skate shops.
Despite embracing a variety of previous trends, she proudly announces, “I have no fashion regrets”. While her everyday style is more laid-back, her stage outfits are filled with sparkle. Prep time is usually limited but, if left to her own devices, she confesses, “I could take ages to get ready!”
Putting in the effort is important to Sarah Jane. “Instead of wearing jeans and T-shirts on stage, I want to wear things that are a little more fun and exciting,” she explains. “I like to put in the effort for all the people that come along to our gigs. Before, people wouldn’t be bothered dressing up because they felt it was a bit too girly or to silly but I think it’s nice to make the effort. Fashion at the moment is about really expressing yourself and going overboard with certain things.” Short pants and loads of glitter don’t intimidate her in the least.
When she’s just kicking around, O’Flynn lives in skinny jeans, graphic T-shirts, and trainers. The petit singer, who clocks in at 5’ 1”, appreciates Topshop and American Apparel designs that fit her frame. Citing Blondie and Ana Matronic of Scissor Sisters as style icons, she has an affinity for ‘80s glam – from tight leggings to chunky chain jewellery.
Although she dabbles in a variety of styles, O’Flynn admits she can’t live without her silver Nike Grecos.
“I haven’t even found a pair to replace them,” she explained. “There’s a little hole in the left heel but I don’t care. I can only wear them when it’s not raining, but I haven’t found anything I like more. I think I’m actually going to bring them to the shoe repair man and see if he can fix them!”
Dirty Epics release their single ‘Demolition Man’ on April 14.