Paul Costelloe, the celebrated designer who was once personal designer to Diana, Princess of Wales, has died at the age of 80, his fashion house announced. He passed peacefully in London, surrounded by his wife and seven children.
Born in Dublin in 1945, Costelloe’s illustrious career began at the prestigious Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris. He later worked as a design assistant to Jacques Esterel before moving to Milan, where he played a role in Marks & Spencer’s attempt to enter the Italian market. Although the venture was unsuccessful, Costelloe stayed in Milan as a designer for the luxury department store La Rinascente.
His journey continued to the United States, where he was appointed designer for Anne Fogarty in New York. Eventually, he established his own label, Paul Costelloe Collections, earning acclaim across the fashion world.
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In 1983, he was named personal designer to Diana, Princess of Wales, crafting many of her elegant looks for formal occasions. One of his most memorable creations was a chiffon skirt that became slightly sheer when backlit, stirring some controversy but cementing his reputation for bold yet refined design.
Costelloe’s brand remains vibrant today, offering womenswear, menswear, accessories, homeware, jewellery, eyewear, and children’s occasionwear. He also made notable contributions to corporate wear, designing uniforms for major companies such as British Airways, Delta Airlines, and the Irish Olympic Team.
At London Fashion Week 2024, his label presented the “Boulevard Of Dreams” collection, an homage to 1960s Beverly Hills’ vibrant streets and classic heritage—a testament to his enduring influence and passion over four decades.
Paul Costelloe continued to lead his design team until his passing. In 2010, he was honored among six distinguished Irish fashion designers featured on Irish postage stamps, alongside Louise Kennedy, Lainey Keogh, John Rocha, Philip Treacy, and Orla Kiely. He also served as a celebrity guest judge on RTE Television’s 2013 Craft Master final.
His legacy as a pioneering designer and artist, remembered for style, elegance, and creativity, will continue to inspire the fashion world.