'I am honoured to continue his legacy': Paul Costelloe's son appointed new head of brand

Following the death of Paul Costelloe in November last at the age of 80, the brand has announced the appointment of William Costelloe as the head of the company

The son of the late Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe, William Costelloe, has been appointed as the creative director of the brand.

A son of late Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe has been appointed as the creative director of the brand.

Following the death of Costelloe, who was originally from Dublin, in November last at the age of 80, the brand has announced the appointment of William Costelloe as the head of the company.

Costelloe Snr became internationally known when he began creating clothing designs for Diana, the late Princess of Wales in 1983 - a relationship which continued until her death in 1997.

In 2005, Costelloe collaborated with Dunnes Stores to create a homewares brand, with the successful partnership expanding into womenswear in 2011.

William, 34, is to lead the development of all the brand’s collections moving forward, championing the values of creativity, quality and craftsmanship laid down by his father over more than 40 years, the company said in a statement.

On his appointment, William said: “My father taught me to see fashion through the eyes of an artist; to respect materials, the process, the people.

“I am honoured to be continuing his legacy, and I approach this role with determination, gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead for the Paul Costelloe brand."

As Design Director to his late father for the past seven years, William has worked hand in hand with Paul to develop the seasonal landmark catwalk collections.

Alongside Paul, he has also led the design and development of the collections with our retail and license partners globally, including ready-to-wear womenswear and menswear, homeware, bridal, children’s occasion wear, bags and accessories.

William is known for his expertise in colour and material. Prior to working with Paul Costelloe, he worked as a print and textile designer for Portuguese bedding manufacturer Piubelle and homeware producer Matceramica.

He was also a visual merchandiser and stylist for department store La Rinascente in Milan, the same department store Paul himself worked at early in his career.

William received his formal womenswear design and textile training at the Istituto Marangoni in Milan. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art Painting from Camberwell College of Art as well as a Master’s degree from Chelsea College of Art in London.

The Paul Costelloe Autumn Winter 2026 collection, which will officially open London Fashion Week on February 19 next, marks the first collection under William’s leadership.

The statement added: “We offer our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to our customers and partners for their support and look forward to sharing the artistry and elegance of the Paul Costelloe collections in the many years ahead.” 

Costelloe Snr died surrounded by his wife and seven children in London. His funeral was held in Monkstown, Dublin last month.

His family and design thanked members of the public for their “outpouring of love and tributes”.

On Saturday, Dunnes Stores launched this year’s Holy Communion collection from Paul Costelloe Living Occasionwear, paying homage to the fashion designer.

Costelloe’s legacy lives on through the Paul Costelloe Living brand, which remains committed to continuing the tradition with many more Holy Communion collections to come.