Louise Kennedy teams up with Ballyfin
Designer Louise Kennedy takes SIOBHÁN BREATNACH behind the scenes of her collaboration with one of Ireland’s most iconic hotels
When you combine the creative talent of a designer with national treasure status with one of the country’s most beautiful, history-steeped estates a little bit of magic happens.
Aside from her own collections, Louise Kennedy has designed everything from the current Aer Lingus uniform to the first national judicial robes in the Irish Supreme Court.
She’s even had her face on an An Post stamp in recognition of her contribution to fashion – Irish royalty indeed. Kennedy has been collaborating with the iconic Ballyfin Demesne in Co. Laois since 2019.
With two collections already launched and photographed on the property’s magnificent grounds, it’s just the start of their partnership.
Among the creations is the Ballyfin silk scarf - inspired by the stunning architectural details of the ceiling stucco work in the Lady Caroline Coote room. “Architecture has always been a huge influence on our creative inspiration and also a great source of inspiration, so to work with Ballyfin was a dream come true,” she says. “We are in discussions on new avenues to expand our work together in future.”
The pandemic has emphasised the importance of relationships for the award-winning designer, whose first collection was launched by Brown Thomas in 1983 followed by flagships stores in Dublin, London and twicea-year trunk shows in New York.
Past collaborations have included a crystal collection for Tipperary Crystal and a line of tailored women’s shirts with Turnbull & Asser in the UK. “Relationships with our clients and our suppliers, namely the mills that weave our fabrics and the artisans who craft our clothes,”she says are all-important, adding that integrity and quality are now more important than ever.
“We were always a sustainable brand, making clothes to cherish for many seasons, not just one.”
Leather accessories will be a focus this year as well as the launch of a new cross-over bag in the Kennedy collection that should be ready by October.
“Never has the cross-over bag been so relevant or needed during pandemic times,” she says.
“We are also in the process of redesigning our flagship Georgian store on Merrion Square in Dublin, adding a new accessories room on the ground floor.” The pandemic also guided the business towards greater digital immersion – products are now being designed and produced remotely and then launched online and on social channels.
“It isn’t as soulful as selling in person but it has worked for us during lockdown periods,” she adds. “Experience is also key to our brand philosophy - creating beautiful clothes and beautiful environments to shop within.
“Each season we must produce clothes that excite, and importantly clothes that our clients will desire, investment pieces that will be loved for many seasons.”