Renowned fashion designer Paul Costelloe, known for his work with Princess Diana, has passed away at the age of 80, surrounded by his family in London. His eponymous fashion brand confirmed the news, expressing deep sorrow over his death after a brief illness. Costelloe, born in Dublin in 1945, embarked on his design career in Paris before moving to Milan to support Marks and Spencer’s expansion efforts in Italy.
Despite the unsuccessful venture in Italy, Costelloe found success in Milan as a designer for La Rinascente. He later ventured to the US, where he worked with renowned brands before establishing his own label, Paul Costelloe Collections. In 1983, he became Princess Diana’s personal designer, creating elegant ensembles for her public appearances. His iconic chiffon skirt, which caused a stir for its semi-transparency under certain lighting, remains a memorable creation.
Costelloe’s brand, offering a wide range of collections from womenswear to homeware, has continued to thrive. He also made a mark in the corporate world by designing attire for major companies and sports teams like British Airways and the Irish Olympic Team. His recent showcase at London Fashion Week paid tribute to his four-decade career, drawing inspiration from the vibrant streets of 1960s Beverly Hills.
In recognition of his influence in the fashion industry, Costelloe was honored as one of the featured Irish designers on a series of postage stamps in 2010. Additionally, he served as a guest judge on RTE Television’s Craft Master show in 2013. Despite his passing, Costelloe’s legacy lives on through his enduring contributions to the world of fashion.
