Irish Fashion Icon Paul Costelloe Passes Away at 80

Sun Nov 23 2025 07:53:01 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Renowned Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe, remembered for his remarkable contributions to the fashion industry and his personal design work for Princess Diana, has passed away in London at the age of 80.

Paul Costelloe, celebrated Irish fashion designer, has died at the age of 80 in London. His family announced his passing due to a short illness, stating he was surrounded by loved ones. Costelloe was known for his distinguished work, including being the personal designer for Diana, Princess of Wales, and his notable use of traditional Irish textiles in modern design.

Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe has died in London aged 80.

Costelloe became one of the best-known names in British and Irish fashion and was personal designer to the late Diana, the Princess of Wales.

His family issued a statement on Saturday saying they were deeply saddened to announce the passing of Paul Costelloe following a short illness. They added: He was surrounded by his wife and seven children and passed peacefully in London.

Born in Dublin, Costelloe was the son of a raincoat manufacturer. After graduating from the Grafton Academy of Fashion Design, he trained at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris before establishing his label, Paul Costelloe Collections, in 1979. His work showcased at prestigious fashion weeks in London, Paris, Milan, and New York.

Appointed as the personal designer for Princess Diana in 1983, Costelloe's designs often featured traditional Irish fabrics, contributing significantly to modern Irish fashion. He recently closed Ireland Fashion Week and was recognized for his lifelong contributions to the industry.

Taoiseach (Irish PM) Micheál Martin expressed his sorrow, stating Costelloe was an icon of design who elevated Irish fashion globally.

Costelloe's legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to quality and his profound influence on the fashion scene, making him a beloved figure who will be greatly missed.