Irish Designer Paul Costelloe Dies at 80

Irish fashion icon Paul Costelloe has died in London at the age of 80, ending a career that spanned five decades and helped elevate Irish design to global prominence. His family confirmed that he passed away peacefully after a short illness, surrounded by his wife and seven children.

Early Life and Entry into Fashion

Costelloe was born in Dublin, where his father managed a successful raincoat manufacturing business. He studied at the Grafton Academy of Fashion Design before moving to Paris, where he trained at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture. These formative years shaped his technical expertise and his affinity for classic European tailoring.

Rise to Global Recognition

In 1979, Costelloe launched his own label, Paul Costelloe Collections. His work became a fixture at London Fashion Week and was showcased in Paris, Milan and New York. His reputation soared when he became the personal designer to Diana, Princess of Wales in 1983, a partnership that lasted until her death in 1997 and cemented his place in international fashion.

Design Legacy and Influence

Throughout his career, Costelloe incorporated traditional Irish fabrics such as linen and tweed, blending heritage materials with contemporary silhouettes. He collaborated extensively with Dunnes Stores and served as the closing designer for the inaugural Ireland Fashion Week this year. Despite past controversies, his later reflections acknowledged Ireland’s growing style confidence and European influence.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Paul Costelloe founded his label in 1979 and became Princess Diana’s personal designer in 1983.
• He trained at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris.
• His designs frequently used Irish linen and tweed.
• He remained a regular participant at London Fashion Week for decades.

Tributes and National Recognition

Irish leaders paid tribute to Costelloe’s contributions, calling him an artist who brought Irish fashion to the world stage. Tributes highlighted his discipline, craftsmanship and lasting influence on modern Irish design. His passing leaves a significant void in the country’s creative landscape, but his work continues to shape the industry he helped define.