Paul Costelloe brings Rivals to the runway at London Fashion Week

Paul Costelloe’s Autumn/Winter 2025 collection: A Symphony of Country Chic

Irish designer Paul Costelloe, renowned for his elegant and classic tailoring, brought a fresh viewpoint to country wear with his Autumn/Winter 2025 collection at London Fashion Week. Drawing inspiration from the era when Diana, Princess of Wales, was courted by Prince Charles, Costelloe’s designs evoked the timeless glamour of the English countryside.

A blend of Tradition and Modernity

The collection was a harmonious blend of conventional and contemporary aesthetics. Costelloe’s signature craftsmanship was evident in the chic, yet heritage-inspired outerwear, which included sumptuous wool coats and capes reminiscent of Chloé’s renowned Fall/Winter 2024 collection. The use of classic materials like Harris Tweed of Scotland and Magees of Ireland further solidified the collection’s commitment to heritage.

Equestrian Elegance Takes Center Stage

A clear nod towards equestrian style, Costelloe’s designs incorporated elements frequently enough associated with horseback riding. Riding blazers and culottes were paired with dainty stilettos and wool stockings, creating a refined fusion of stable gear and glamour. Pluming thick-waisted skirts were complemented by suspenders and suede evening gloves, showcasing Costelloe’s ability to elevate seemingly casual pieces into statements of timeless elegance.

A Palette Inspired by Nature

The color palette reflected the warm hues of autumn, featuring chestnut browns, creams, berry reds, and forest greens. The theme extended to the evening wear, which showcased gorgeously feminine displays of bold, autumnal florals.

Bold Prints and eighties Influences

Like many collections this season, Costelloe’s designs incorporated elements of the 1980s, with full-waisted belts, broad shoulders, and bold prints making a comeback. These nods to the decade were particularly evident in the collection’s eye-catching minidresses and evening gowns, emblazoned with vintage photographs of showjumping and dressage.

A Festivity of Craftsmanship and Heritage

“I thought the prints were amazing, I’m obviously from an equestrian background, and I thought [the collection] was cut beautifully, elegant, and sophisticated yet sexy,” said supermodel Jodie Kidd, perfectly capturing the essence of Costelloe’s vision.”I thought he just smashed it – it was my dream collection – anything countryside-esque while being beautifully designed.”

The collection received a standing ovation, a rarity at London Fashion week, as it celebrated the enduring allure of classic design and the enduring power of country chic. ”

What specific techniques and materials did Paul Costelloe use to achieve the intricate tailoring in his A/W 2025 collection?

Paul Costelloe on Autumn/Winter 2025: A Symphony of Country chic

Archyde recently caught up with Irish designer Paul Costelloe, known for his exquisite tailoring, to discuss his latest Autumn/Winter 2025 collection. Inspired by the heyday of Diana, Princess of Wales, and the English countryside, Costelloe’s designs seamlessly blend tradition with modernity. Read on to delve into the thoughts behind this stunning collection.

Evoking Memories of a Timeless Era

Archyde: Your A/W 2025 collection drew inspiration from the era when Diana,Princess of Wales,captivated the world.What drew you to this time period?

paul Costelloe: It was the effervescent energy and romanticism of the period that inspired me. Diana and Charles courted during this time,and their love story is woven into the very fabric of the English countryside. I wanted to capture that timeless elegance and infuse it with a modern edge.

Balancing Convention and Contemporary Style

Archyde: Your designs are known for their craftsmanship and classics. How did you strike a balance between tradition and contemporary aesthetics in this collection?

Paul Costelloe: I believe that classic design should evolve with the times to remain relevant. In this collection, I used signature craftsmanship techniques like intricate tailoring and luxurious materials, but I married them with bold, modern touches such as striking prints and ’80s-inspired silhouettes. The result is a harmonious blend of the old and new.

Equestrian Flair Meets Sophisticated Glamour

Archyde: Equestrian elements were prominent in your designs. Tell us about the fusion of stable gear and glamorous evening wear.

Paul Costelloe: I wanted to celebrate the innate elegance found in equestrian attire. Paired with feminine details and opulent fabrics, the result is a refined, timeless aesthetic that’s both unexpected and captivating.

Nature’s palette and Eighties Nostalgia

Archyde: The color palette and bold florals in your evening wear were striking. How did you decide on the hues and prints for this collection?

paul Costelloe: I took cues from the vibrant colors found in nature during autumn. I also incorporated bold prints reminiscent of ’80s fashion, reflecting the current decade’s appreciation for retro influences. The rich textures and vivid hues created a stunning juxtaposition against the collection’s more understated pieces.

Country Chic’s enduring Allure

Archyde: Your collection received a standing ovation at London Fashion Week. What do you hope viewers took away from your country chic vision?

Paul Costelloe: I hope they were inspired to embrace their personal style while appreciating the enduring allure of classic design. The world of fashion is ever-evolving, and I believe that fluidity keeps it exciting and relevant.

From stunning outerwear to elegant eveningwear, Paul Costelloe’s Autumn/Winter 2025 collection is a testament to the enduring charm of country chic. We can’t wait to see what he designs next!