By Emma Jane Cooke
Not only are they the behind the scenes of Dublin Independent Fashion Week but their designs display the heart and soul of current Irish Fashion.
Dublin Independent Fashion Week celebrates Ireland’s evolving fashion scene by focusing and highlighting the work of Irish designers and Irish iconography that acts as a reflection for the current state of the country through clothing. Back for a third consecutive year DIFW consisted of a stacked day to day schedule of shows, workshops and events to get everyone in the city involved.
One of the headline shows for DIFW showcased not only one, but three Irish female designers, Aisling Duffy, Megan McGuigan (Seeking Judy), and Sarah O’Neill (The Zero Waster). The Collective Showcase took place on the 24th of September in The Complex Venue, Gallery & Studios. Zeda the Architect was behind the production and direction of the collective which involved not only the designer’s collections, but also live performances that set the show aside for its original and innovative take.
Titled, ‘Becoming’, a ceremonial journey through transformation, rebellion, and release, told through fashion; the description did not disappoint as each designer presented a distinctive and unique collection that separated the show into multiple acts. Performances from Vatican Jail, Shane O’Leary and Fortune not only elevated the showcase but used the staging to their advantage by immersing the audience into the storytelling and detailed journey of the show. Accessories from 5178 such as their signature umbrellas also aided to the stage design as credited by the DIFW description.
The Zero Waster started off the showcase strong and powerful by debuting a capsule collection that emphasizes the durability and importance of natural resources. The designer evidently played with earth tones and textures with many of her pieces deriving from 100% Báinín Wool and Weld Dyed Cotton. Fortune was performing during this segment of the show which got the audience glued in from the beginning. A standout moment comes from this collection as not only were the audience grooving with Fortune’s live music but so was one of the models who later joined him on the stage, adding a sense of community to the entire showcase.
Capsule collection by The Zero Wasters at DIFW.
Aisling Duffy’s collection completely flipped the switch when it was her turn in the showcase by contrasting heavy metal music with her frilly and playful collection. Once the models rolled out, it was clear that we were in the second act as no designer was alike. Aisling Duffy’s was not only frivolous and fun but a reminder of her signature style that hits the nail on the head. Models were coming out with balloons, animal teddies and an excessive amount of clips in their hair which not only looked stunning, but felt as though it was telling the audience to have fun with their clothing and to be adventurous with their style. Duffy plays with bedazzling details and also imagery as some pieces included images of cats and otters. The dresses were styled as though your childhood drawing of your dream dress had come to life with variations of eye-catching pieces at play.
Aisling Duffy’s Collection at DIFW
Seeking Judy’s act was nothing short of what the audience were expecting as the brand has been receiving a significant amount of praise and attention for the latest drops. From two piece sets, to off the shoulder sweaters and the inclusion of her bag collection, this act truly emphasized just how talented the long-time designer is and also acts as a reminder for the strong amounts of talent in the Dublin fashion scene. Umbrellas from 5178 were also spotted hand in hand with the collection, as well as some Seeking Judy beanies, showcasing how we can still be stylish in the Irish weather! As the third act closed, the array of dancing models not only complimented the range of clothing but also the enthusiasm and eccentric characteristics from the models who represent the fun and colourful fashion scene. Solstice by Seeking Judy was also on display both on the models and also on Vatican Jail, who wore a stunning red piece that showed off the designer’s individualistic style. This collection is part of the designer’s luxury knitwear that is made only with deadstock natural fibres and Irish spun yarn.
Even if you only attended one event during the annual fashion week, it truly gives a taste and insight into the talent and art that is present within Ireland and how the celebration of Irish culture and iconography is only fuelling that.