With the aim of turning dark times of the past into lighter hopes for the future, acclaimed Irish womenswear designer Paul Costelloe presented his Spring/Summer ’22 collection at London Fashion Week this morning (September 17th 2022).
Inspired by Ancient Celtic Art and Illuminated Manuscripts of The Book of Kells (a treasured paper that contains the four Gospels in Latin based on the Vulgate text which St Jerome completed in 384AD), Costelloe reinterpreted the scrollwork design and microscopic detailing featured in the 9th century gospel, and applied it with bespoke linen fabrics to evoke the feel of the Celtic tradition and a culture long past, which has its place in the “turbulence of today”.
Striking graphics were intricately woven into each of the pieces, and another highlight was the use of natural fabrics such as printed and woven linens from Ireland’s oldest linen fabric mill, William Clark, Emblem Weavers in Wexford, and opulent cotton and woven blends from Italy, all in magnificent translucent blues.
Paul Costelloe Bags also featured with large printed linen weekend bags, and soft leather belted accessories bringing an everyday, functional touch to the collection.
PAUL COSTELLOE SPRING SUMMER 2022
As a designer who works entirely by hand – from initial hand-drawn sketches and hand-designed fabrics, patterns and tiles – the parallels with the entirely hand-produced Book of Kells and this collection are inspirational and truly unique.
Check out some of our favourite looks from the collection below:
