Designer Paul Costelloe Dies at 80 Icon Who Shaped Modern Irish Fashion

Irish Designer Paul Costelloe Dies at 80

Renowned Irish designer Paul Costelloe , one of the leading figures in contemporary Irish fashion, has passed away in London at the age of 80. His family confirmed that he died peacefully after a brief illness, surrounded by his wife and seven children. His death marks the end of a five-decade career that helped place Irish design firmly on the global stage.

Early Life and Fashion Training

Born in Dublin, Costelloe grew up in a household deeply connected to garment craftsmanship—his father operated a rainwear manufacturing business. After studying at the Grafton Academy of Fashion Design , he moved to Paris, where he refined his technical skills at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture . This early exposure to European tailoring shaped the refined, structured aesthetic he later became known for.

Rise to International Prominence

Costelloe launched his label, Paul Costelloe Collections , in 1979 and soon became a regular presence at London Fashion Week . His breakthrough came in 1983 when he became Princess Diana’s personal designer , a prestigious association that lasted until 1997. His work also graced runways in Milan, Paris and New York, making him one of Ireland’s most recognisable fashion ambassadors.

Legacy and Design Contributions

Known for blending traditional Irish fabrics—especially linen and tweed—with modern silhouettes, Costelloe maintained strong ties with Irish retail giant Dunnes Stores . This year, he was honoured as the closing designer for the first-ever Ireland Fashion Week , reflecting his enduring influence. His legacy lies in championing Irish craftsmanship and shaping Ireland’s contemporary design identity.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Founded Paul Costelloe Collections in 1979.

• Personal designer to Princess Diana from 1983–1997.

• Trained at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture , Paris.

• Known for using Irish linen and tweed in modern fashion.