The fashion world is mourning the loss of Paul Costelloe, the esteemed Irish designer who served as Princess Diana's personal designer for over a decade, following his death at age 80.
A Peaceful Passing in London
Paul Costelloe died peacefully in London surrounded by his wife and seven children after battling a short illness, according to an official statement from his fashion label. The announcement requested privacy for the grieving family during this difficult time.
From Dublin to Diana: A Fashion Journey
Born in Dublin in 1945, Costelloe's fashion career began at the prestigious Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris. He subsequently worked as design assistant to Jacques Esterel before relocating to Milan to support Marks and Spencer's unsuccessful attempt to enter the Italian market.
Despite this setback, Costelloe remained in Milan as designer for luxury department store La Rinascente before moving to the United States, where he was appointed designer to Anne Fogarty in New York.
In 1983, he achieved one of fashion's highest honours when appointed personal designer to Diana, Princess of Wales, a role he maintained until her tragic death in 1997. While he primarily created formal occasion wear for the princess, one of his most memorable designs was a chiffon skirt that became slightly see-through when backlit, generating significant media controversy.
Building a Lasting Fashion Legacy
After establishing his own label, Paul Costelloe Collections, the designer built an impressive portfolio that extended beyond royal commissions. His brand continues to offer womenswear, menswear, bags, accessories, homeware, jewellery, eyewear and children's occasionwear.
Costelloe also developed successful corporate wear concepts for major multinational corporations and sports teams including British Airways, Delta Airlines and the Irish Olympic Team.
His creative vision remained sharp until the end, with his brand presenting a collection titled "Boulevard Of Dreams" at London Fashion Week in 2025, inspired by 1960s Beverly Hills. Costelloe continued to lead his design team until his death.
Among his numerous honours, Costelloe was featured alongside other prominent Irish designers on a set of Irish postage stamps issued by An Post in 2010 and served as a celebrity guest judge for the 2013 final of RTE Television's Craft Master show.
