We spend time catching up with one of Ireland’s hottest fashion exports, Louise Kennedy.

She’s besties with Jeanne Beker (they have been friends for over a decade), just started a
bridal collection after 27 years in the fashion biz, and hopes to make her way back to Toronto sometime in the near future. We chatted with the Irish designer about Dublin hot spots, travel musts and what makes her luxe line so Irish and international at the same time.
Louise Kennedy has become synonymous with Irish fashion. Her clean, classic lines and bold bright colour choices have put her not only on the Irish design map, but the fashion world’s map as well. And her shop in Dublin has clearly become a destination for visitors looking for her clothing and more — she also has a
line of crystal, a selection of other design and home products that she handpicks, and now her 25-piece bridal collection.
Why start a bridal collection? "It was the next natural progression. From my collection, to a crystal collection (which Jeanne Beker helped launch in the Irish high-end department store Brown Thomas) and eventually we will do china, after 27 years it was natural to get into the new market of bridal."



Explain a bit about the bridal collection. "There are 25 dresses, all completely bespoke. It was created for the non-traditional bride. It’s leaner, more about the cut and the body and very ’30s inspired. I guess I’ve always been known for cut and technique and timelessness. This brings in the detailing and craftsmanship to the bridal collection. At our store it’s a very seamless experience for the bride."
Describe Irish fashion. "From my personal perspective, we’re all about tailoring and international and not necessarily the heritage of Ireland. A lot of people outside of Ireland think we’re American based. It’s not necessarily Irish influenced and more about the woman and what will look good on her. I love fine fabrics and silks and use them a lot."
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