London: Renowned fashion designer Paul Costelloe, at 79, continues to inspire with his Spring 2026 collection, blending decades of experience with fresh insights into fashion trends, creativity, and the industry’s evolving nature while navigating personal health challenges and a commitment to Irish creativity.
Paul Costelloe, the renowned Irish fashion designer, continues to be a force in the industry at the age of 79, demonstrating both vitality and a forward-looking vision in his work. Currently based in London, Costelloe remains deeply engaged in crafting his Spring 2026 collection, drawing from decades of experience that began at the prestigious Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris before moving through various prestigious avenues, including Milan and a historic collaboration with Princess Diana in the mid-1980s.
In remarks made to the Irish Examiner, Costelloe highlighted that age does not hinder his creativity or passion for fashion. “Age doesn’t play a part,” he stated. “I don’t need to try and be harder anymore. I just need to enjoy it.” Emphasising the contrast between spring/summer and winter collections, he remarked that the latter often feels weighed down by heavy materials and poor weather, whereas spring brings a sense of anticipation and brightness.
Costelloe’s insights extend beyond just design; he offered a critical perspective on the current state of fashion, suggesting that runway trends often diverge sharply from what consumers might wear in their everyday life. “From the point of view of the catwalk, it’s got very little to do with what people would be wearing the following season,” he commented. Instead, he sees a need for extreme aesthetics to garner attention, citing an example from a recent Oscar-nominated film featuring Demi Moore. He noted, “She wears this amazing yellow coat… that’s an example of the extreme you have to go to have people talk about you or to be noticed.”
Similarly, Costelloe discussed the intricacies of translating high-fashion designs into affordable retail options, exemplifying this evolution with his own studio collection. He recognised the industry’s challenges in terms of accessibility and timing, as high-end designs take time to materialise into more commercially viable options. Reflecting on the business aspect, he stated, “To get into [it] all takes a lot more money to build up your brand. It also takes a lot of travel,” which he engaged in recently, returning from an invaluable fabric fair in Milan.
In addition to design, Costelloe stressed the importance of “people-watching” in shaping his creative process. He recounted an inspiring encounter with a fellow airline passenger whose well-cut coat provided a spark of inspiration. This aspect of his fashion perspective highlights how cultural differences enrich creativity and foster a deeper appreciation of style variations across borders.
Costelloe also spoke candidly about his health, revealing that a diabetes diagnosis last year has ultimately strengthened his resolve and clarified his passion for fashion. “I’m still here enjoying it somewhat… age is like a university,” he noted, further denoting the wisdom that comes with experience. His observations on fashion’s often superficial nature led him to assert that longevity is not a priority in current trends, particularly within women’s fashion.
In a broader cultural context, Costelloe referenced the fashion statements of prominent figures like Donald Trump and his family. He commended their polished looks, regardless of political opinions, stating, “Whether you agree with his politics or not… they are all so smartly dressed.” In discussing the impact of media and celebrity on fashion trends, he seamlessly transitioned into a conversation about Irish culture, noting that contemporary Irish creatives and designers are experiencing a renaissance on the global stage.
Looking towards his future work, Costelloe revealed plans to introduce wedding dresses in his upcoming collections, alongside a distinctive black and white offering made from Irish linen. His aspiration to design for the Irish men’s rugby team signals his ongoing commitment to innovate and uplift Irish fashion.
In summary, Costelloe remains a pivotal figure in fashion, characterised by his unyielding enthusiasm and deep understanding of the complexities of the industry. With an extensive career enriched by notable experiences and insights, he is set to continue navigating the currents of contemporary fashion while exploring new territories.
Source: Noah Wire Services
