Paul Costelloe, Princess Diana’s Longtime Personal Designer, Dies at 80

Irish-American fashion icon Paul Costelloe, celebrated globally for his long association with the late Princess Diana, has died at the age of 80 after a brief illness, his family announced on Saturday. Costelloe passed away in London surrounded by his wife and seven children. A leading figure in luxury womenswear, he had been a familiar presence on the opening day of London Fashion Week since its inception in 1984.

Born in Dublin in 1945, Costelloe began his fashion journey in Paris, training with major French luxury houses before moving to Milan to work with Marks and Spencer. His career reached new heights in 1983 when he was appointed Princess Diana’s personal designer, a role he cherished until her death in 1997. Known for his refined, romantic tailoring and innovative reinterpretations of classic styles, Costelloe frequently showcased designs featuring vibrant colours, tweeds, and florals, earning him a distinguished place in modern fashion history.

Costelloe continued creating with energy and passion until recently, unveiling a 1960s-inspired Spring-Summer collection, “We stroll down Rodeo Drive,” at London Fashion Week in September. His fashion label evolved into a family venture, with his son William serving as design director. In a 2024 interview with Vogue, he admitted he dreamed of slowing down someday: “To hire an old car and drive around France and paint.” His passing marks the end of an era for British and Irish fashion.

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