Embroidery, knitwear and designs based on the fragile quality of insect wings were just a few of the delights on the menu at one of Temple Bar's trendier restaurants yesterday.
The cream of Ireland's young fashion designers joined the Minister for Public Enterprise, Ms O'Rourke, for a lunch to promote the fifth annual Taispeantas fashion show, due to be held in Athlone in November.
This year, 31 competitors from North and South will send their designs down the catwalk hoping to catch the eye of the judges.
The first prize of £15,000 is intended to provide an opportunity for new designers to set up in business but the media exposure offers a shop window for all competitors to show off their talents.
"It's an honour just to be chosen to take part, I haven't really thought about winning," said Ms Laura Cassidy, a graduate of the National College for Art and Design (NCAD).
Her collection of avant-garde hats, entitled "Captivate and Accentuate", caused quite a stir among lunchtime diners.
"My collection is very theatrical and is designed for the catwalk. It combines traditional millinery with modern techniques," she said.
Ms Fiona Coleman from Cavan opted for a sophisticated and sexy look to her collection.
"I took my inspiration from 1960s interior and furniture design. It's a sharp look with very graphic knitwear and some slinky fabrics."
Mr Gareth Moloney, a graduate of NCAD, used the theme of Tibet to produce an autumn/winter menswear collection. He said the real challenge was to manufacture and produce your designs.
Irish designer Mr Richard Lewis, one of four judges, set out his criteria for success.
"I'm looking for innovation but there must also be a commercial streak and every design should have its own look and handwriting."
He had final words of advice to aspiring fashion designers: "You have to be as tough as old boots to succeed in fashion nowadays."
All ticket sales from the Taispeantas '99 show will go towards the midlands branch of the Samaritans.