Irish fashion inspires

THERE was no calls to ban size zero models, no dresses made of balloons or hats that look like fencing masks.

This year’s Dublin fashion week got off to a less controversial start than its London and Paris-based equivalents, and focused on the business of buying and selling clothes, and promoting an increasing number of young Irish designers to a host of international buyers.

A group of 32 designers showcased their collections for the autumn/winter 2007 season at the Fitzwilliam Hotel in Dublin yesterday, showing the originality and diversity that are slowly putting Ireland on the fashion map.

Maasai warriors are the inspiration behind one collection on show by Rachel MacKay, who picked up ideas on travels to Tanzania.

She said the vibrant colours and the elegance of these tribes are now part of the collection.

“Ribbons and Bows” was the theme of the collection on display by Aoife O’Leary, which includes luxurious silk tops teamed with sharply-tailored trousers and skirts, glamorous, belted coats with oversized collars and delicate lace tops.

Designers Angela Hope and Daniela Benson, who run the Hope & Benson label, said their collection is “designed to stimulate the senses”. All their bags are made from pure wool and velvet, and contain dried Irish lavender from the Burren Perfumery within the lining.

Initiated by former model and events manager Sonia Reynolds, Dublin Fashion Week started in October 2005. Last year, it reported sales of €1 million.

Close to 100 interested buyers attended yesterday’s event, mostly coming from Irish boutiques but some travelling from stores around Europe to sign up Irish labels.

British-based top designer, Matthew Williamson, said he is “looking forward to being inspired” when he travels to Dublin for the first time, to stage a show in the Mansion House on Wednesday evening.

Tickets for the show cost €295 and are available on www.dublinfashionweek.com.