Irish Roots at Slane Castle

A Celebration of Irish Design, Heritage & Heart

Under the vaulted ceilings of Slane Castle, a very special evening unfolded, one that stitched together the past, present and future of Irish fashion. Avoca was honoured to open the inaugural Irish Roots show at Ireland Fashion Week, showcasing four captivating looks crafted in collaboration with exceptional Irish makers and textile artisans.

The Irish Roots Show was more than a runway, it was a love letter to Irish creativity. Held in one of the country’s most iconic heritage sites, the event brought together nine Irish designers, each one drawing deeply from the well of our shared culture, storytelling traditions and enduring connection to the land.

Irish Roots at Slane Castle

Featured Looks: A Tapestry of Craft & Character

From the storied mills of Wicklow to the artisan studios scattered across Ireland, each Avoca piece in the show was a tribute to the magic of collaboration – where heritage meets innovation, and every thread tells a story.

Wild Wool and Whimsy

We kicked off the show with a look that truly captured the heart and humour of Avoca. Our Century Fabric, woven from the finest Donegal yarns and tailored into a top and pleated asymmetric skirt, is a perfect celebration of the community and craftsmanship that has defined Avoca for generations. 

A proud nod to our weaving roots, the piece was layered with a beautiful hand-knit cardigan by 'Miss She's Got Knits' and topped with a whimsical sheep headpiece by Paulien Sijtsema (Wolinhout). It was a joyful tribute to the beauty of the Irish countryside, as well as our textile traditions and of course our woolly friends who inspire so much of what we do.

Colour, Craft & a Dash of Daring

Vibrant, playful and proudly bold, our second look turned heads with a joyful explosion of colour. At its heart was a striking 10-metre scarf, woven in our signature Avoca Circus design. A celebration of creativity without limits. Wrapped, draped and flowing with movement, it reflected the energy and imagination at the core of everything we do.

Styled with our Oh My My Emerald Donegal Wool & Mohair Coat, this look was a true love letter to the Irish landscape. The tailored skirt and top were beautifully crafted in a large chevron weave at our 300-year-old mill, using the finest Donegal yarns blended with soft yet vibrant blue wool. Finally, using looped mohair, the vivid green herringbone of the coat recalled rolling hills and the unmistakable morning light dancing on dewy grass.

Final touches included a show-stopping wool yarn ball hat and a pair of matching fabric glasses. A playful duo that brought even further personality to the look. Created in collaboration with The Galway Wool Co-op, this ensemble radiated joy from stitch to showcase.

Timeless Elegance, Reimagined

A soft and serene moment on the runway, this look featured an ivory wool ensemble designed entirely by Avoca, with The Flock Bán Donegal Wool Cape and cropped jacket, and a pleated skirt. Woven with care and intention, this look was a gentle nod to timeless Irish craftsmanship.

The silhouette, styled with a matching cape, felt both nostalgic and modern, capturing the quiet strength, poise and grace of Irish femininity. 

The unique baseball cap was made by the amazing Hannah's Hats of Donegal, exclusively for Avoca, a real tribute to the skilled hands and valued partnerships that define our tradition.

Finished with sleek black leather boots, it was a beautiful balance of softness and structure, tradition and contemporary style.

Heritage with a Twist

Our final look is a bold expression of Avoca's creative spirit, where heritage meets the horizon. The Warp collection looks forward with confidence, as seen on the runway with this playful reinterpretation of fashion in electric pink and cream.

A large houndstooth, woven with popping colour is a statement of optimism. Cut into a bomber-style jacket and structured full skirt, it works to capture movement and energy, a conversation between past and future. 

Styled with a textured bucket hat made from Galway Wool woven in our mill and designed by Hannah's Hats of Donegal. Alongside a  cosy navy scarf from our brand-new range of sheep-inspired pieces, this ensemble was a joyful clash of classic pattern and modern personality.

The Warp Collection is a play of contrasts, bold yet familiar, experimental yet grounded. Ever woven, ever evolving.