William Costelloe Continues Father’s Legacy at London Fashion Week

London Fashion Week witnessed a poignant moment as William Costelloe debuted his first collection as Creative Director of the Paul Costelloe brand, following the passing of his father, the renowned Irish designer Paul Costelloe. The show, held at the Waldorf hotel, marked both a continuation of a celebrated legacy and a fresh perspective under new leadership.

A Legacy of Quality and Irish Heritage

William Costelloe’s collection deeply resonated with his father’s core principles: a commitment to quality, a celebration of women, and a dedication to showcasing Irish heritage. Paul Costelloe was known for his unwavering focus on materials and creating pieces that made women feel confident and happy. William spoke of his father’s pride in being Irish and his dedication to presenting Irish fabrics on a global stage, a tradition he intends to uphold.

A Natural Progression

Despite the weight of expectation, William Costelloe approached the collection with a sense of natural progression, guided by the trust his father placed in his artistic instincts. Paul Costelloe never provided a strict brief, instead encouraging his son to “go with your gut.” This freedom allowed William to infuse his own artistic vision while remaining true to the brand’s DNA. He often collaborated with his father, with Paul providing sketches and William bringing them to life.

The Fall/Winter 2026/27 Collection: A Celebration of Tailoring

The Fall/Winter 2026/27 collection centered around tailoring, utilizing 100% Irish wools and tweeds from Magee Fabrics. Appliquéd florals, crafted from the same cloth, served as a nod to continuity and a blossoming legacy. Silhouettes were more structured and modern, featuring defined shoulders and clean lines, while still respecting the house’s heritage. Subtle shimmering pinstripes enlivened traditional fabrics, and corsetry was softened with silk and organza.

The color palette focused on earth tones – tweeds, creams, chocolate, and tan browns – transitioning into black and charcoal. A blouse featuring a print combining sketches by both William and Paul Costelloe symbolized the collaboration and shared artistic vision.

A Standing Ovation

The show concluded with a U2 track, a tribute to Paul Costelloe’s frequent use of the venue, and William Costelloe received a standing ovation. The applause was a recognition of not only the collection itself but similarly the continuation of a significant legacy in Irish fashion. William expressed confidence that his father would have been proud of the collection’s concise and impactful statement.