The newly restored Irish Embassy in Paris was the glamorous setting last night for a gala fashion show hosted by Ambassador Anne Anderson and Enterprise Ireland showcasing the spring/summer collections 2007 of eight Irish designers. Deirdre McQuillan, Fashion Editor, in Paris
The line-up included newcomers Eilis Boyle and Joanne Hynes alongside established labels such as Aideen Bodkin, Avoca Anthology, Deborah Veale, N&C Kilkenny and Helen McAlinden.
"We are marrying the setting with the style," the ambassador told The Irish Times as guests were greeted with Donegal oysters and champagne.
An invited audience of some 200 people, mainly buyers and press from France, Benelux and Japan, attended the show which coincided with the current Prêt à Porter.
"What we are projecting is quality and to show that in a superb setting, the jewel of Paris, is bound to create an impact. The French are conscious of the Celtic Tiger, but we need to give them that new image of Ireland on the move," the ambassador said.
The clothes - light and bright in chiffons, brocades, silks and printed cottons - were a far cry from the conventional tweeds and heavy cable knits that are the familiar image of Irish fashion in France.
For Enterprise Ireland, the event was the culmination of a year-long project promoting Irish fashion in northern Europe at events in London, Edinburgh, Copenhagen and Antwerp.
"Creative industries are good for the economy," said Marc Berman of Enterprise Ireland in London, who managed the project along with Dara MacMahon in Paris.
"Irish designers have now had experience of new markets. Next year we want to make these events more regular. A big show gives a statement of interest; continuing shows indicate that we are here for the long term."
The London-based Irish stylist of the show, Damien Foxe, said Irish designers were now breaking away and starting to look international.
"I think Quin & Donnelly, for example, are as good as Nicole Farhi [the French designer based in the UK] and their fabrics and price points are amazing."