My Week with Celia Holman Lee: Farewell to a fashion legend and a friend

I HAD the honour of attending the Hi Style Awards in Cork, where I was delighted to receive the award for “Exceptional Contribution to the Fashion Industry.”

The award was presented to me by the wonderful and beautifully dressed Miriam O’Callaghan.

My dress was from the fabulous Phoenix VI boutique, and my makeup was beautifully done by the talented team on the MAC counter at Brown Thomas Limerick.

READ MORE: My Week with Celia Holman Lee: From atelier inspiration to holiday style

Even in a week filled with celebration, I felt the heartbreak of losing a dear friend, and the country lost a designer whose talent and generosity touched so many - Paul Costelloe.

Paul was one of the finest designers I have ever had the pleasure of working with, and I was incredibly lucky to know him.

Whenever we met, whether at fashion shows or other events, I always felt we had a special connection that was uniquely tied to Limerick. Paul’s father was from Limerick, and whenever we were together, it felt as though we shared our own little piece of home in every conversation and every laugh.

The pride Paul felt for his father’s hometown was unparalleled, and he never shied away from celebrating our wonderful city.

I remember November 2019, when I travelled to Cork for the ‘Make Christmas for Everyone’ weekend at Dunnes Stores in Bishopstown Court, Paul was there, showcasing his Christmas designs and homewares.

That day, he signed two Christmas tree decorations for me: “To Celia, Love Paul.”

Every year since, those decorations have taken pride of place on my Christmas tree. This year, they will carry even more meaning and memories.

-XxCelia