Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe, best known for shaping Princess Diana’s distinctive style and maintaining a prominent presence at London Fashion Week for nearly 40 years, has died at the age of
80. His family announced the news through a statement shared with local media on Saturday.
Costelloe passed away in London after a brief illness, surrounded by his wife and seven children, the family said. A representative for the designer was not immediately available for comment.
Born in Dublin in 1945, Costelloe began his formal training in fashion before moving to Paris to study at the esteemed Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture. His career later took him to Milan, where he worked with the luxury retailer La Rinascente, and then to New York, where he launched his first label. He eventually settled in London, the city that became central to both his brand and reputation.
In 1983, shortly after founding Paul Costelloe Collections, he was appointed personal designer to Princess Diana. Their association spanned from the early years of her public life until her death in 1997, during which Costelloe created many of her most recognisable looks.
Costelloe was invited to participate in the inaugural edition of London Fashion Week in 1984 and remained a regular presence on its runway. He last appeared at the event in September to unveil his spring–summer line. Over the years, his brand expanded to include womenswear, menswear, accessories, homeware and jewellery.
Paying tribute, Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris said, “Paul led a remarkable life as a leading figure in Irish, UK and international fashion and business for decades. He built a hugely successful business through incredible talent, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to quality.”
He added, “His was and is a quite remarkable Irish success story.”
May his soul rest in peace!
(With inputs from Reuters)
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