We are undeniably in the midst of a Celtic cultural revival – from musicians like CMAT, Fontaines DC and Kneecap, through fierce thespian talents such as Nicola Coughlan, Cillian Murphy and Paul Mescal, to writers Maggie O’Farrell and Sally Rooney. But catch yourself on, slapping on a JW Anderson x Guinness sweater will simply not do this Saint Patrick’s Day, no matter how ironically you’re wearing it. From London Fashion Week regulars to small businesses, the fashion industry is bursting with independent designers to support. Noctis’ own Polish-Irish Fashion Editor Florentyna Syperek selects her favourite Irish brands to suit every budget.
1. Sinead O’Dwyer
Dublin-born, London-based Sinéad O’Dwyer established her eponymous label after graduating in 2018, setting out to battle toxic body ideals. Rather than hide perceived ‘flaws’, O’Dwyer explores and celebrates the natural curves of the female body. An LVMH Prize semi-finalist and recipient of the Zalando Visionary Award and the Golden Fleece Award, O’Dwyer’s vision to make the luxury world look beyond sample-sized bodies has put her at the forefront of contemporary fashion.
2. Aoife Cawley
Aoife Cawley is a printmaker, illustrator, and textile artist whose work is centred around the themes of Irish folklore, Celtic mythology, and various Medieval symbols, juxtaposing traditions and history with contemporary techniques and a vibrant colour scheme. Her football-style scarves are a particular favourite, with Cawley releasing special designs, ranging from a limited-edition collaboration with the Alasdair Gray Archive – yes, of ‘Poor Things’ fame – to merchandise for the Derry for Choice activist group.
3. Hope Macaulay
Hope Macaulay burst onto the fashion scene with her head-turning, rainbow-hued giant knits during the pandemic, providing a much needed dopamine boost. Created using a hand-knitting technique she developed herself, the demand for Macaulay’s feel-good knitwear grew steadily over the past six years, with the current team consisting of 20 skilled knitters spread out across Northern Ireland. While Macaulay’s joyful take on contemporary luxury has earned her endorsements from the likes of Vogue, GQ, and Vanity Fair, as well as a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, she has remained loyal to her ethos, prioritising a made-to-order model, sustainably sourced materials, and working with local craftswomen.
4. Simone Rocha
A queen of frothy frocks and romantic ruffles, Simone Rocha is a luxury fashion crowd favourite – and with good reason. Having made her London Fashion Week debut in 2010 after graduating from CSM, the Dublin-born designer has achieved global success by combining her ethereal design aesthetic with a pragmatic approach to expanding her brand via various partnerships, from commercially minded collaborations with H&M and Crocs, to an artistically elevated couture collection for Jean Paul Gaultier.
5. Róisín Pierce
“White speaks what colour cannot. In beauty and softness resilience resides.” Róisín Pierce’s philosophy to adhere to a signature colour palette centred on the absence of colour and pattern has led her to explore a variety of fabric manipulation techniques. Embracing Irish craft, playing with delicate embroidery, lightweight fabrics, and complex textures, founder and creative director Pierce focuses on elevating feminine aesthetics, blending art with fashion. Pierce’s creative universe extends beyond her garments, with collaborations with the likes of French accessories house Polène and an all-white limited edition artbook. Despite seeing commercial success and industry recognition, the Dublin-based designer’s commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability has established Pierce as a visionary who refuses to conform to the industry’s schedule and expectations.
6. Claudia Maxwell
Specialising in custom-made pieces in joyful colours, Belfast-based designer Claudia Maxwell turned her hobby into a successful accessory business over the past 6 years. Her personalised statement bags and jewellery make for perfect gifts for the dopamine dresser in your life. Maxwell’s latest creations include the Claddagh, a traditional Irish symbol usually featured on rings to represent the various elements of a relationship: friendship (hands), love (heart) and loyalty (crown).
7. Han* Clothing
Being a Derry girl might be a state of mind, but decking yourself out in Han* Clothing will definitely help get you there. Created in 2017 by Derry-based Hannah Vail, Han* Clothing offers wearable, colourful garments and accessories, bringing a much needed infusion of joy to the grey weather. Founder Hannah Vail is not only a mum of one who has built her own brand from scratch, but she is also the co-founder of GIRL Studio, a creative studio and shop championing female-led businesses. Add a vibrant beanie or an effortlessly cool striped tee from Han* to freshen up your wardrobe just in time for spring!