At home and abroad, Arts and Creativity editor Emily Sheehy argues that Irish fashion is the next big thing.
Irish artists have found monumental global success in the past few years. Our actors have gained recognition on screen; Cillian Murphy, Paul Mescal, Andrew Scott and Barry Keoghan to name a few. Additionally, Hozier and CMAT released albums last year that debuted at number one in the Irish Album Charts. While global media might be focusing their attention on Irish actors and musicians right now, Irish designers and brands have been equally as successful in the realm of fashion. Here in Ireland, there is certainly a growing interest in local designers and brands, as well as incorporating Irish culture into fashion. Furthermore, Irish couture fashion designers have made appearances in February’s London Fashion Week, highlighting that there is no lack of Irish talent in the fashion industry.
Ditsy Bits and Pellador are two of the many brands that have drawn inspiration from Irish culture and incorporated it into their clothing. Pellador (inspired by the Irish word for footballer, peiladóir) describe their products as “premium knitwear inspired by Irish sporting heritage,” an Irish twist on the ‘blokette’ trend that was so prevalent in 2023. Their most popular products are their knitted jumpers that resemble football jerseys; the most notable design being the iconic Ireland Italia ‘90 jersey, complete with a Celtic triquetra on the back. Pellador’s first ever collaboration was with none other than Guinness, keeping in line with their Irish inspiration. The jersey jumper features the classic Guinness colours of black and white, complete with the Irish harp on the back.
Pellador aren’t the only designers taking inspiration from sporting culture. Caoimhe Marie’s Cairdeas (friendship) football scarf combines the Irish language with our strong sporting culture. Ditsy Bits have also featured the black stuff in their designs with the ‘Sláinte’ and ‘Pint’ tees. They have previously designed shirts incorporating the Claddagh symbol and an Irish stamp print. Ditsy Bits design and print their t-shirts here in Ireland. With their drops limited to small quantities, they often sell out quickly.
In the realm of high fashion, Simone Rocha has risen to prominence since she debuted her graduate collection at the Tate Modern in 2010. Although her work does not explicitly feature Irish culture, she is daughter of Chinese-Irish fashion royalty John Rocha. Her ethereal Spring/Summer 2024 collection, named ‘The Dress Rehearsal’, features trendy bow and ribbon motifs, fabric gathered into the shape of roses and silky mesh. Rather than drawing inspiration from the ceremony of the wedding, Rocha situates her theme on the ‘night before,’ and the tension and emotions of a rehearsal, subverting the tropes of the marriage ceremony. She also debuted her collaboration with Crocs alongside this collection, a self-declared “creative juxtaposition of femininity and utilitarianism.” The heeled Crocs are adorned with jewels, pearls and laces. Rocha’s Autumn/Winter 2024 collection was shown at London Fashion Week this February, following on from ‘The Dress Rehearsal.’ Titled ‘The Wake,’ Rocha draws inspiration from Queen Victoria’s mourning dress and archival pieces and features touches of faux-fur, sheer fabrics and plenty of embellishment.
Sustainability is becoming increasingly more important in all realms, especially the fashion industry. Limerick designer Aoife McNamara and her eponymous brand has put the planet at the heart of her brand, and has become the first fashion label in Ireland to be awarded a B Corp certification. This recognises that her brand meets a high standard of social and environmental performance. Her ‘Rewilding’ collection was shown at Paris Fashion Week in September 2023, which “tells the story of the magic and resilience of the Burren”. The pinstripe wool suits highlight the natural biodiversity of the Clare region and the beauty that is allowed to thrive in an untouched landscape. It represents a feeling of hope that we can let nature heal itself and combat climate change through rewilding projects.
The pinstripe wool suits highlight the natural biodiversity of the Clare region and the beauty that is allowed to thrive in an untouched landscape. It represents a feeling of hope that we can let nature heal itself and combat climate change through rewilding projects.
Ireland has always been known for its incredible creative output, from Joyce to Lynott to Heaney, and fashion is no exception. Whether it is our sporting culture, Celtic heritage or natural landscapes, there is no lack of inspiration to incorporate into our outfits. Even if you aren’t able to pick up a piece from these Irish designers, dig out your county jersey from the back of your drawer, because Irish fashion is certainly on trend.