Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe has passed away at the age of 80. A statement shared on his eponymous brand’s Instagram on Saturday, November 22, confirmed his death.
The statement read, "In memory of Paul Costelloe, who passed away in London at the age of 80, surrounded by his wife and seven children." It added, "Paul was always so grateful for the support everyone has given him through his 40-plus years at the forefront of fashion."
The brand expressed deep gratitude for the love and tributes received during this difficult time. The cause of death has not been publicly shared.
Costelloe was renowned for being the personal designer for Princess Diana prior to her tragic death in August 1997.
He shared fond memories of the princess during a 2021 appearance on BBC radio’s Desert Island Discs. Costelloe described Diana as "so gentle, so feminine, so warm, so fun."
He recalled seeing her in one of his dresses at a Hyde Park concert. "She looked so happy and made me feel so proud," he said. "I am so grateful to have that image of her and I am almost shedding a tear right now, because it was such a special time and I still treasure every moment."
Costelloe first met Diana after her ladies-in-waiting discovered his designs in a Windsor boutique in the early 1980s.
He recounted the experience to Vogue Business in 2024. "Suddenly, I was in a taxi on my way to Kensington Palace with 20 garment bags," he said. Diana was waiting to greet him on the staircase, and they began trying on garments in the drawing room.
"It worked so well," Costelloe noted, describing her as "a perfect size 40 and a joy to work with." He remembered looking out toward Hyde Park and feeling he should pinch himself.
Following Costelloe’s passing, numerous dedicated fans and public figures offered their condolences on social media.
Singer Imelda May wrote on Saturday, "So sorry to hear this sad news. What a legend of a human being." She described him as a "loving, charismatic, talented, witty, smart and proud Irishman."
Model agent Orla Diffily recognized Costelloe as "truly one of Ireland’s greatest designers." She had the pleasure of meeting him over the years and attending his London Fashion Week shows.
Designer Don O’Neill also paid tribute to Costelloe. In an Instagram comment, O’Neill, 59, expressed heartbreak for Costelloe’s wife Anne, his family, and his many friends and colleagues.
O’Neill praised Costelloe as "a kind, gentle, generous, funny, and incredibly talented man." He added, "May he rest in peace."
Costelloe launched his womenswear line in 1978. He consistently presented new collections at London Fashion Week for 40 years. He often collaborated with his wife and children on the brand.
Reflecting on potential retirement plans last year, Costelloe told Vogue about an ambition. "My ambition is to retire from fashion eventually, rent an old car, tour France and paint," he shared. He noted this would not happen tomorrow, perhaps in 10 years.