If you ask for a definition of the Irish sense of fashion, it would be mission impossible. In our globalized world, “national’’ fashion simply does not exist. International fashion trends are sweeping across the globe despite geographical coordinates and that’s the whole beauty of it.
One of the biggest trends of the past decade is sustainable fashion. This has to do with our global shift towards ‘slower’ and more mindful consumption. More low-profile, local fashion creators are coming to the market and Irish brands are no exception. One great example of a conscious Irish brand is Native Denim. “We put in what the high street takes out,” is the company mantra and though €170 may be a lot for a pair of jeans, they guarantee it for 5 years, but they bet it’s gonna last 20.
You can’t have that heritage classic look without a quality Irish tweed. The Landskein is another sustainable name in Irish fashion that specializes in stylish tweed coats and jackets made in Donegal tweed. The materials, linings and fusing they use are to Oeko standards, meaning they test the textiles for harmful substances, plastic polybags are biodegradable and buttons are made from natural horn.
Another great Irish brand to follow is Stable Of Ireland, founded by two friends Sonia Reynolds and Frances Duff, who seek to transform Irish heritage fabrics and give them a modern and stylish look. Think of crochet tops, Irish linen shawls, scarves, handknitted Aran sweaters and similar goodness.
