The designer died surrounded by his loved-ones in London

Paul Costelloe, the former personal designer of Princess Diana for more than a decade, has passed away at the age of 80.

Mr Costelloe died surrounded by his family, his fashion label confirmed.

 

A statement from his brand read: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Paul Costelloe following a short illness.

“He was surrounded by his wife and seven children and passed peacefully in London. We kindly ask that you respect the privacy of the family during this time.”

Paul Costelloe

Mr Costelloe passed away surrounded by his family

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Mr Costelloe was born in Dublin in 1945 and began his career at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris.

The fashion guru then became design assistant to designer Jacques Esterel.

He then moved to Milan to support Marks and Spencer in their bid to enter the Italian market.

After Marks and Spencer’s attempt was unsuccessful, Mr Costelloe stayed in Italy as designer for the luxury department store La Rinascente.

Princess Diana

Princess Diana wearing a dress that was designed for her by Mr Costelloe

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In 1983, he was appointed personal designer to Princess Diana, and worked with her until 1997, when she was tragically killed in a car crash in Paris.

Mr Costelloe dressed Diana for formal occasions, but one of his most memorable outfits for the late princess was a chiffon skirt.

His brand continues to sell fashion items, including womenswear, menswear, bags and accessories.

Mr Costelloe also developed a successful business with corporate design wear, used by the likes of British Airways and Delta Airways.

Paul Costelloe
Paul Costelloe has passed away at the age of 80 | PA

At this year’s London Fashion Week, Mr Costelloe’s brand presented a show encompassing his work over the past four decades.

It focused on old heritage and streets of Rodeo Drive in 1960s Beverly Hills, titled Boulevard Of Dreams.

He led the design team up until his death.

Irish Tanaiste Simon Harris paid tribute to Mr Costelloe, saying he was “saddened” by his death.

Paul Costelloe

Mr Costelloe led the design team of his brand up until his death

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He said: “Paul led a remarkable life as a leading figure in Irish, UK and international fashion and business for decades. He built a hugely successful business through incredible talent, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

“His eponymous fashion house has built an extraordinary legacy that will live on. He was and is a quite remarkable Irish success story. His collaborations, including his memorable work with Princess Diana and long relationship with Dunnes Stores, reflected not just his skill but his abiding pride in his Irish roots, which often inspired his craftsmanship.

“He leaves behind a body of work that shaped modern Irish fashion and will continue to shape it in the years to come. He will be greatly missed and warmly remembered.

“I extend my deepest sympathies to his wife, his children, his wider family, friends and all those whom he was close to.”