Irish Fashion Icon Paul Costelloe Dies Aged 80

Renowned Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe has died in London at the age of 80 following a short illness, his family announced on Saturday. Surrounded by his wife and seven children, Costelloe passed away peacefully. Known as one of the most influential names in British and Irish fashion, he built a global reputation with his innovative designs, craftsmanship, and decades-long leadership in the industry.

Born in Dublin, Costelloe studied at the Grafton Academy before moving to Paris for advanced couture training. He launched his own label in 1979 and showcased his collections at London, Paris, Milan, and New York Fashion Weeks. His career reached a major milestone when he was appointed personal designer to Princess Diana in 1983, a partnership that continued until her death in 1997. He frequently worked with traditional Irish fabrics, including linen and tweed, and collaborated with major retailers such as Dunnes Stores.

Costelloe remained a key figure on international runways and served as the closing designer at the inaugural Ireland Fashion Week in 2025. Tributes poured in from political leaders and fashion figures alike. Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin called him “an icon of design” who brought Irish fashion to the world stage, while Tánaiste Simon Harris praised his remarkable career and lasting influence. Despite past controversy over comments about Irish women’s fashion, Costelloe recently expressed pride in Ireland’s evolving style identity.

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