Paul Costelloe showcases Eighties countryside glamour with his equestrian London Fashion Week show News

Elegant designs have been worn by royalty and celebrities, inspiring fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

His designs have been worn by numerous celebrities, including Kate Middleton, who has been a long-time admirer of his work.

A Legacy of Elegance

Paul Costelloe’s career spans over four decades, with a legacy that continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts around the world. His designs have been featured in top fashion magazines, including Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, and have been worn by royalty and celebrities alike.

A Personal Connection to Diana

Costelloe’s appointment as Diana’s personal designer in 1983 marked a significant milestone in his career. The Princess of Wales was known for her love of fashion, and Costelloe’s designs quickly became a staple in her wardrobe. He designed many of her iconic looks, including her wedding dress and her famous “revenge dress” worn to a dinner party in 1996. *Some of the most notable designs include:**

The Princess of Wales’s wedding dress, which featured a 25-foot train and intricate beading

The “revenge dress,” which was a sleek black evening gown with a daring thigh-high slit

A bespoke suit worn by the Princess to a state dinner in 1985

A Lasting Impact on Fashion

Costelloe’s designs have had a lasting impact on the fashion industry.

The show was attended by a diverse range of guests, including fashion industry professionals, influencers, and celebrities.

The Setting: A Luxurious Backdrop

The Waldorf Hilton Hotel, a Grade-II Edwardian-style building, provided the perfect setting for Costelloe’s autumn/winter collection. The hotel’s opulent interior, complete with intricate moldings, sweeping staircases, and lavish furnishings, transported the audience to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication. The venue’s rich history and architectural grandeur added an air of exclusivity to the event, making it a truly unforgettable experience for the guests in attendance.

The Collection: A Masterclass in Old-School Glamour

Costelloe’s autumn/winter collection was a masterclass in old-school glamour, with each piece exuding a sense of timeless sophistication and refinement. The designs featured intricate details, luxurious fabrics, and a focus on classic silhouettes, all of which came together to create a cohesive and visually stunning collection.

However, the equestrian theme was more nuanced than a simple retro revival. It was a sophisticated and refined interpretation of the classic equestrian look, with a focus on luxurious fabrics, impeccable tailoring, and a dash of whimsy.

The Equestrian Aesthetic

The equestrian theme was woven throughout the collection, with a focus on the elegance and sophistication of the classic equestrian look. The designers drew inspiration from the world of horse riding, incorporating elements such as:

Luxurious fabrics: The collection featured a range of luxurious fabrics, including velvet, silk, and cashmere. These fabrics added a touch of opulence and sophistication to the designs. Impeccable tailoring: The designers paid close attention to detail, ensuring that every garment was impeccably tailored. This attention to detail added a level of refinement and elegance to the collection. Whimsical touches: The collection also featured a range of whimsical touches, including intricate embroidery, delicate lace, and subtle patterns. These touches added a level of playfulness and personality to the designs.

The brand’s signature style is characterized by:

Key Features of Costelloe

Luxurious Fabrics: Costelloe is renowned for its use of high-quality, sumptuous fabrics such as wool, cashmere, and silk. Classic Silhouettes: The brand’s designs often feature classic, timeless silhouettes that exude a sense of sophistication and elegance. Preppy Influence: Costelloe’s style is also influenced by preppy elements, such as stripes, plaids, and bold colors, which add a touch of whimsy and playfulness to the brand’s overall aesthetic. ### The Art of Mixing and Matching**

The Art of Mixing and Matching

One of the key strengths of Costelloe is its ability to mix and match different patterns, textures, and colors to create a unique and stylish look.

The crowd was visibly moved by the emotional farewell to the late designer, who had been a driving force behind the brand for over 40 years.

The Legacy of a Fashion Icon

The collection was a testament to the designer’s enduring legacy, showcasing a range of garments that blended traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities.