In a poignant celebration of London Fashion Week’s 40th birthday, Irish designer Paul Costelloe transported audiences on a captivating journey with his AW ’24 collection, aptly titled “Once Upon a Time” – Where Limerick Meets Downtown New York. Despite the designer’s absence due to unforeseen circumstances, the runway spoke volumes, delivering a narrative that seamlessly merged personal nostalgia, urban sophistication, and artistic brilliance.
The collection, a testament to Costelloe’s enduring influence since the inaugural London Fashion Week in 1984, unfolded as a sculpted masterpiece. ‘Once Upon a Time’ wove together five decades of memories, where the charm of Limerick met the vibrant energy of New York’s Lower East Side.
The colour palette echoed sophistication, featuring winter whites, chic charcoal greys, and opulent brown Donegal tweeds expertly trimmed in leather. Standout pieces included a giant tweed jacket with an oversized hood, showcasing Costelloe’s ability to merge practicality with high fashion.
As the runway spectacle concluded, the collaborative spirit behind the scenes took a bow. William Costelloe, Jordi Vall i Saborit (Paul’s head of design), and the skilled artisans donned their white coats, symbolizing the collective effort that breathed life into ‘Once Upon a Time.’
In conclusion, Paul Costelloe’s AW ’24 collection not only marked a milestone in London Fashion Week’s history but also affirmed his legacy as a designer who effortlessly combines personal narrative with contemporary style. ‘Once Upon a Time’ is a timeless journey through elegance, a reminder that fashion is an art form that tells a story of enduring sophistication and the indomitable spirit of a design maestro.
Photos By Paul Winstone
By Even Grazielly Escocio