Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, may not traditionally be listed among global fashion capitals such as Paris or Milan, but for those in the know, the city’s rich history and vibrant contemporary scene make it a noteworthy player in today’s fashion industry.
Alex Badia, style director of WWD, cites Dublin’s roots in a fashion scene “that blends tradition, individuality and a forward-thinking ethos of Irish designers,” for its status as a fashion city.
Dublin’s fashion history dates back centuries, with craftsmanship and textile production playing a significant role. The city was known for wool and linen as far back as the 19th century. In the 20th century, Dublin saw a rise in tailors and dressmakers setting up shops. The production of Irish tweed and lace was a defining factor in Dublin’s contribution to fashion during this time.
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The 1950s and 1960s marked a burgeoning period where Dublin began to develop a more distinct fashion identity. This era saw the emergence of boutiques and independent designers who contributed to a growing fashion-conscious public. The fashion scene during these decades was significantly influenced by music, film and cultural shifts — echoing global movements.
Notable designers from Dublin include Sybil Connolly, a pioneering haute couture designer known for revitalizing Irish linen in the 1950s. Her designs were seen on celebrities including Jacqueline Kennedy. Paul Costelloe, while London-based, also hails from Dublin “and has significantly influenced the fashion scene with his elegant and innovative designs often showcased at London Fashion Week,” according to Badia who added that another significant contemporary designer, Louise Kennedy, is known for sophisticated and timeless designs that blend modern couture and a high level of craftsmanship.
Other notables include hat designer Philip Treacy, London-based but hailing from Ahascragh. His hats have fetched four-figure sums. Also of note is Simone Rocha, a designer who trained at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin, and whose father is fashion designer John Rocha.
Current Fashion Trends in Dublin
Recently, Dublin’s fashion has embraced both global trends and local inspiration. The current trends reflect a move towards sustainable and ethical fashion, with local designers and shops promoting eco-friendly materials and production methods. “There’s also a noticeable trend toward streetwear and casual chic, influenced by Dublin’s youthful and vibrant population — such amazing energy,” Badia said.
Dublin’s street style reflects the city’s focus on strong individual expression. “Walk through the cobbled streets of Temple Bar or the bustling alleys of Grafton Street and you’re met with an eclectic mix of styles from punk-inspired looks and vintage ensembles, to cutting-edge haute couture,” said Badia. “This diversity is celebrated in Dublin, and even encouraged, and comes through various fashion events and festivals that spotlight both Irish designers and international trends.”
One of the pillars that also makes Dublin’s fashion uniquely appealing is its deep-rooted connection to its country’s heritage. Traditional Irish textiles, like linen and tweed, are reimagined by local designers who infuse contemporary aesthetics into age-old craftsmanship.
As reported by WWD, at her fall 2024 ready-to-wear collection debut, Róisín Pierce presented “an achingly romantic collection of nearly all-white, intensely handcrafted lace looks that were some of the most original things to come down a runway this season.”
Pierce said the collection “is about hope, love, the narrative we created about a girl that fell from a star, and the idea she would heal the Earth and the different versions of how she would appear.” Pierce was a finalist for the 2022 LVMH Prize for her exploration of traditional Irish craft.
Dublin’s unique blend of historical influences and contemporary fashion movements makes it an exciting place for any fashion enthusiast. Badia said Dublin’s fashion scene is a vibrant tableau of history meshed with contemporary boldness. Unlike other cities where high fashion often floats in a bubble separate from the day-to-day fashion of its streets, Badia said Dublin’s style scene “exudes a more approachable vibe.”
This accessibility is the cornerstone of Dublin’s fashion identity, making it distinct within the global tapestry of style capitals.
Dublin’s smaller scale compared to larger fashion capitals adds to its charm. The fashion community here is tightly knit, promoting a sense of camaraderie and support among up-and-coming designers and established brands. Dublin may not boast the size or the flamboyant reputation of other fashion capitals, but it stands out for its heartfelt connection to Irish tradition, its celebration of diversity and individuality, and its commitment to sustainability.
“Together, these elements create a compelling, unique fashion narrative that Dublin proudly showcases to the world, one innovative design at a time. In these ways and more, Dublin does not just follow global fashion trends — it sets them,” Badia said.
Discover Luxury at The Bicester Collection’s Kildare Village
A luxurious shopping oasis amidst Kildare’s historic landscapes and gourmet delights.
Set in the heart of county Kildare is one of the wealthiest catchments in the country. Kildare Village is near the edge of Kildare town – adjacent to the beautiful ruins of the thirteenth-century Grey Abbey, which is a magical addition to the village.
The region is famed for its tradition in thoroughbred horse breeding and racing. The Village is five minutes from the Irish National Stud and The Curragh Racecourse, home to the Irish Derby, and 25 minutes from the five-star K Club Hotel and its award-winning golf courses and is located an hour outside central Dublin.
Kildare Village is also a luxury shopper’s dream come true. The Village is home to 120 boutiques including Armani, Louise Kennedy and Mulberry. The design of Kildare Village, as individual boutique stores facing an open-air, landscaped, and pedestrianised boulevard, is inspired by the ambience and scale of the region’s stables and stud farms, creating a spacious and tranquil setting
Kildare Village offers luxury shoppers a unique and immersive retail experience and is a must-visit when in Ireland. You can expect a combination of luxury shopping, exclusive services, and engaging events — all curated to create a memorable experience for guests. Food and beverage are of utmost importance and you can choose from the very best International and local eateries from a wide variety of cuisines all prepared with the freshest ingredients in beautiful surroundings.
Dunne & Crescenzi’s modern restaurant, for example, offers a quintessentially Italian menu. Asian gastronomy from Saba, which flies fresh herbs and vegetables directly from Bangkok once a week. Additionally, Sprout & Co has added a healthy mix to the Village with their organic farm to fork approach which sources from local establishments. Ireland’s hottest pizza restaurant, Mani, has just opened its only outpost outside of Dublin in the Village with its famous Carbonara Pizza a firm favourite.
What also sets Kildare Village apart is how it blends fashion, culture, music and art. Through its collaborations and pop-ups, there is always something new and exciting to see and experience. It’s a luxury destination that makes you want to come back, again and again.