Kerry born, New York based designer Don O’Neill was the star attraction at this year’s Irish Fashion Collective in aid of St Joseph’s Shankill, dedicated to dementia care and organised by Dublin fashion designer Deborah Veale. Don who has dressed some of the biggest names in Hollywood including Kendall Jenner, Taylor Swift, Amy Poehler and Oprah Winfrey opened and closed the extravaganza with his Theia creations before giving a heartfelt interview to showbiz host Lorraine Keane.

Irish Fashion Collective: Don O’Neill’s Theia bridal at the IFC Conrad 2017 show in Dublin    Image: Exquisite.ie
Irish Fashion Collective: Don O’Neill’s Theia creations at the IFC Conrad 2017                   Image: Exquisite.ie

The 49 year old Kerryman said he was humbled to be in the same company as designers like Louise Kennedy, Umit Kutluk and Melissa Curry and said the standard of the display was up there with international couture. His husband Paschal Guillermie whom he married last year on the grounds of Ballyheigue Castle in County Kerry was by his side to give a passionate embrace following the show.

Irish Fashion Collective 2017: Don O’Neill receives a passionate kiss from husband Paschal Guillermie  Image: Exquisite.ie

Don’s father Donal and sister Deirdre were also there to celebrate his achievements on home soil. Don gave a special mention to Deirdre who has been his house model since they were children.

Irish Fashion Collective 2017: Host Lorraine Keane interviews designer Don O’Neil        Image: Exquisite.ie

The spectacular event was organised by Deborah Veale who also showed her designs on the night from structured tailoring to shimmering evening wear.

DEBORAH VEALE

Irish Fashion Collective: Deborah Veale’s clean lines at the IFC Conrad 2017            Image: Exquisite.ie

Other designers on the night included:

UMIT KUTLUK

Irish Fashion Collective: Umit Kutluk’s creations at the IFC Conrad 2017 Image: Exquisite.ie

HELEN CODY

Irish Fashion Collective: Helen Cody’s creations at the IFC Conrad 2017 Image: Exquisite.ie

ROISIN LINNANE WITH MELISSA CURRY JEWELLERY

Irish Fashion Collective: Roisin Linnane and jewellery by Melissa Curry at the IFC Conrad 2017 Image: Exquisite.ie

LOUISE KENNEDY

Irish Fashion Collective: Louise Kennedy creations at the IFC Conrad 2017 Image: Exquisite.ie

This is Deborah Veale’s second year to organise a fashion event in aid of St Joseph’s Shankill where her father has received dignified care for dementia. The facility uses the Butterfly philosophy to care for its patients with the aim of bringing as much joy and respect to their patients as their memories deteriorate. To find out more go to: www.saintjosephsshankill.ie