Stylish Irish: Nine ways to shop homegrown design

"Some I’ve grown to love, others I’ve just discovered; yet they are all defined by a collective appreciation of our heritage."

Thu, 14 Mar, 2024 - 02:00

Annmarie O'Connor - @aocdotme

The language of contemporary Irish fashion holds its own in the style lexicon: from emerging designers to creative curators and independent brands.

Some I’ve grown to love, others I’ve just discovered; yet they are all defined by a collective appreciation of our heritage.

Take, Kilkenny’s Linen Shirt Company; on a mission to reimagine Irish linen, the brand’s combination of locally sourced fabric with fresh design twists (think buff sleeves and tie-neck details) creates considered wardrobe staples.

Meanwhile in Galway, The Tweed Project’s handmade-to-order pieces are a testament to the alchemical magic of craftsmanship with clean, modern tailoring.

Magpie Rose Jewellery is a new find (thanks to the Brown Thomas CREATE showcase) featuring 18-carat gold vermeil necklaces with unusual agate stones and natural sparkling inclusions.

Nicki Hoyne’s titular brand of slow-fashion bags and shoes, however, is always on my radar for fun, quality designs with a conscience.

Handmade in Spain by master craftspeople, her award-winning footwear comes in an impressive range of sizes: 37-42 with certain styles in 36 and 43.

My gifting go-to, Orwell & Browne designs and makes sweaters, scarves and accessories using locally sourced Donegal tweed—their cufflinks are truly special.

One of my sister’s favourite places to shop, Stable of Ireland, also wins big with homegrown, sustainable textiles and crafts.

Put their linen neck scarves, cotton trench coats and wool jumpers on your wish list.

As for lifestyle goodies, Sómas, (meaning ‘ease’ or ‘comfort’ in Irish) makes every day special with its edit of signature home fragrances and candles.

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