The collections by members of the Council of Irish Fashion Designers for Autumn Winter 2024 show exude confidence and allure.
The wide range of pieces including daywear, bridal wear, knitwear and a selection of covetable accessories including millinery, bags and jewellery promise a season of sensual richness.
The creations from the group’s 65 members feature elegant design, exquisite fabrics and striking colour combinations with pieces to meet the demands of any contemporary wardrobe. From cocooning coats to fine knitwear, laid-back leisurewear to demure little black dresses and gala gowns, there are garments for all occasions.
Two designers in the group (Sarah Foy and Róisín Dockry) have re-imagined the traditional wedding dress, offering innovative designs in shorter lengths suitable for modern low-key ceremonies in a registry office or non-religious venue.
At the other end of the age range, First Holy Communion dresses by UPA in linen and fine knit appear simple in terms of style but are beautifully realised and could make family heirlooms.
The ‘allure’ theme is also evident in accessories with meticulously crafted leathers and jewellery collections that offer delicate understatement or bold dramatic statements. Millinery too is strong with sculptural pieces and accent colour to elevates any celebration or event.
The colour palette in the ranges encompasses vivid jewel tones of red, black, purple, forest green and gold with pops of cerise, burnt orange and lemon. A graphic combination of ebony and ivory in Helena Haye’s striped column dress is particularly striking and timeless.
Irish tweeds from Magee 1866 feature in several of the collections as well as their own range of classic outerwear and tailoring. Fabrics including prints, brocades, satins, crepes, linens and fine organza amplify the richness and texture of autumn dressing.
The knitwear collections offer luxurious cashmere or fine merino yarns with tactile knits from Laura Chambers, Linda Wilson and Caroline Mitchell. For bag fans there are bags to suit all aspects of daily life from dainty purses to luxury totes, from Landa and RUXX, who both highlight enduring craftmanship in their leatherwork.
October is Design Month and 17 CIFD designers are participating in Fabiani Design Month at Fabiani boutique, Longford until October 31st. Participating designers and collections include AH Designs, Olwen Bourke, Laura Chambers, Capulet & Montague, Caroline Duffy, Éadach by Sara O’Neill, Fauna, FéRí, Ejay Griffin, Nicki Hoyne, Landa, Magee 1866, Miss She’s Got Knits, Peelo, Siadbh, Urban Aran and Wendy Louise Designs.
The group will also be hosting the CIFD Charity Dinner in aid of Irish Cancer Society, a dinner featuring a Designer Panel Discussion incorporating an informal fashion show and the opportunity to shop directly with designers in Lawlor’s Hotel Naas on Thursday October 24th. The panel on the night will include Helen Hayes, Sharon Hoey (AndTate), Christine Murphy (Urban Aran), Cliona O’Brien (Moon+Mellow) and Faye Rochford (FéRí).
Designers will discuss the process and inspiration behind their collections, provide fashion advice and take questions from the audience. Tickets at €50 can be purchased on Eventbrite and from the hotel reception.
As all CIFD members have endorsed the organisation’s Sustainability Charter and the council is a founder member of the European Fashion Alliance, collections are ethical in terms of production, using natural or other eco-friendly materials thereby offering a sustainable and high value alternative to fast fashion. So, this October support Irish design talent and invest in an alluring and enduring piece of Irish design. See more at irishfashiondsigners.com’.
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