Meet the designers transforming Irish knitwear for a new generation

Once a vital source of income for women working within restrictive social systems, a new generation of female designers is reshaping what it means to make — and wear — Irish knitwear 

Designers Pearl Reddington, Sasha Donnellan and Gabrielle Malone

One of the most enduring images from Ireland’s inaugural Fashion Week last October came courtesy of designer Sasha Donnellan and her interpretation of the classic Aran knit: a traditional piece, reimagined for a modern audience. 

Those lucky enough to be in the room watched as models sashayed down the runway, eyes lingering on the woollen jumper, bearing a Claddagh symbol embroidered on the front. Its impact was undeniable.