Donegal Designers Dazzle at Inaugural Ireland Fashion Week

UPDATE: Three talented graduates from ATU Donegal stunned audiences at the inaugural Ireland Fashion Week on September 29, 2023, showcasing their innovative, Irish Sea-inspired designs. The event, held at the Anantara The Marker Hotel in Dublin, featured 39 emerging designers selected from hundreds of applicants, highlighting the best of Ireland’s fashion talent.

The spotlight was on Bray Zhang, Emma McKinney, and Hollie Marie Gallagher, each of whom drew inspiration from the breathtaking beauty of the Atlantic coast. Their collections were not only visually striking but also deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Ireland.

Hollie Marie Gallagher, founder of the brand Dare to Howl, presented a modern take on the traditional Irish Brat cloak. Her designs pay homage to two influential women in Irish history: the legendary pirate queen Grace O’Malley and marine biologist Maud Delap. Gallagher’s work emphasizes emotional depth and avant-garde vision, utilizing sculptural forms alongside authentic Donegal herringbone tweed and unique textiles.

Bray Zhang, at just 20 years old, showcased his label BRAY ZHANG, which redefines luxury through a modern lens. His featured ensemble included a waterproof trench coat and pleated trousers, complete with buttons crafted from driftwood collected from local shores. This collection pays tribute to the wild weather of Ireland’s northwest, blending practicality with style.

Meanwhile, Emma McKinney, the creative mind behind the MANIAC label, drew on local resources, integrating remnant tweed and mussel shells to narrate the textured story of her homeland. “I let the natural beauty of Donegal guide me,” McKinney stated, reflecting on the influence of the region’s landscapes on her work.

The Irish Sea Graduate Show, curated by industry leaders Anne O’Shea and Jess Colivet, showcased these rising stars, propelling their designs to new heights. Supported by Specsavers, the event highlighted the potential of Ireland’s next generation of fashion innovators.

ATU Donegal’s BA Fashion Design with Promotion program continues to thrive, empowering students to become creative leaders in the dynamic fashion industry. For more information about this transformative program, visit https://www.atu.ie/courses/bachelor-of-arts-fashion-design-with-promotion-on-campus-donegal.

As the fashion world watches, the contributions of these Donegal designers mark a significant moment in Ireland’s fashion landscape, blending coastal creativity with rich cultural narratives. Stay tuned for more updates on these emerging talents as they continue to make waves in the industry.