Ireland Fashion Week is currently taking place across multiple venues on the island, featuring over 80 designers over six days. The event includes runway shows, industry discussions, graduate showcases, and networking opportunities. Now in its second year, it aims to develop an Irish fashion ecosystem with investment, commercial opportunities, and international exposure.

International figures attended the opening at Slane Castle in County Meath, including Canadian model Coco Rocha and model and activist Alana Hadid. Rocha said the fashion scene in Ireland is remarkable and that a national fashion week was overdue. She described participating as a full-circle moment, as she was discovered at an Irish dancing competition. Rocha, who has Irish heritage, said she hopes the event helps designers build careers without leaving the country and exposes the next generation to local fashion opportunities.

Among the Northern Ireland participants is Sarah Jayne Lavery, founder of Charlotte & Tess and its in-house label Atelier, based in Moy, County Tyrone. She presented a collection in the Irish Roots showcase, using Donegal tweed, Aran wool, and linen. Lavery said having her own brand is a dream and that the event puts creativity on an international stage. She was one of 11 designers selected for the showcase.

Belfast-based knitwear designer Grace Bowman is taking part in the graduate runway showcase, one of 44 creatives selected. Bowman, who studied at Ulster University and completed a placement with Inis Meáin Knitting Company, uses deadstock linen and organic cotton with abstract Celtic knot motifs and hand embroidery. She said participation provides important support, exposure, and networking for building a community and spreading access to Irish design.

The event runs until 12 October and includes sponsors such as M&S, Primark, and Visa. Founder Ashley McDonnell said the focus is building on last year’s momentum and demonstrating what can be achieved when Irish fashion is viewed as an industry. The theme this year is "Coming Home," celebrating Irish creativity, heritage, and returning designers.

In related news, French fashion house Dior will hold its first runway show in Ireland in December, steered by Magherafelt-born Jonathan Anderson.