London, Britain – Prominent Irish fashion designer Paul Costello died in the British capital, London, at the age of 80, marking the passing of one of the most prominent names
who left a clear mark on the world of British and Irish fashion for four decades.
The Castillo family announced in a statement on Saturday that they were
“deeply saddened to announce the death of Paul Castillo after a short period of illness.”
She added that he passed away “peacefully, surrounded by his wife and seven children.”
Europe’s top designers
Castillo was born in the Irish capital, Dublin, where his father ran a successful factory producing raincoats.
This brought him close to the clothing industry from a young age.
After graduating from the Grafton Academy of Fashion Design,
he moved to Paris to complete his studies at the Chamber of Haute Couture Industry.
This was before he quickly made his professional way towards global recognition.
In 1979 he founded his own label, Paul Costelloe Collections,
He participated in showcasing his collections during London Fashion Week.
This, along with shows in Paris, Milan and New York, cemented his name
as one of the most prominent designers in Europe.
Princess Diana’s personal designer
Castillo gained greater international fame after being appointed
Princess Diana’s personal designer in 1983.
This collaboration continued until her death in 1997.
Her outfits bearing his signature were among the most prominent fashion moments of that time.
His designs were distinguished by the use of traditional Irish fabrics such as linen and tweed.
He also collaborated with Dunnes Stores chain,
He was the final designer at the first edition of Irish Fashion Week this year.
Castillo: Irish women lack elegance
Despite his widespread presence in the fashion world, Castillo stirred controversy in 1998.
When he stated that “Irish women lack elegance”,
But he recently backtracked in an interview with Irish broadcaster RTÉ, asserting that “Ireland is now more European” than before.
With Castillo’s passing, the fashion world loses one of its most prominent and influential figures in shaping modern British and Irish taste.
