Paul Costelloe, the renowned Irish-American fashion designer who famously dressed the late Princess Diana and became a cornerstone of the London fashion scene, has passed away at the age of 80. His company confirmed the news in a statement on Saturday, revealing that he died peacefully in London, surrounded by his wife and seven children, following a brief illness. Born in Dublin in 1945, Costelloe was the son of a tailor who crafted raincoats in the city’s Rathmines district. His journey into fashion began at the prestigious Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris, where he absorbed the creative essence of iconic designers like Emanuel Ungaro and Pierre Cardin. Costelloe’s career took off as an assistant to designer Jacques Esterel, followed by a stint in Milan with British retailer Marks & Spencer. Although the venture into the Italian market faltered, he remained in Milan, working for the luxury department store La Rinascente. Later, he moved to the United States, designing for the Anne Fogarty label before establishing his own fashion house. His brand became synonymous with luxurious fabrics, innovative designs, and a diverse range of offerings, including womenswear, menswear, bags, and accessories. In 1983, Costelloe’s career reached new heights when he was appointed as Princess Diana’s personal designer, a role he held until her tragic death in 1997. The royal connection began when one of Diana’s ladies-in-waiting noticed his designs and arranged a meeting. Reflecting on the moment, Costelloe once recalled, “I looked out at Hyde Park and I said: ‘God, this is it, Paul, you have made it!’” His legacy as a designer who blended creativity with elegance continues to inspire the fashion world.
Paul Costelloe, Irish-American fashion designer for Princess Diana, dies at 80
