As Europe’s best performing trade show, it is a fantastic platform for manufacturers, designers, and craft makers to show their new collections
Showcase Ireland is marking it’s 50th anniversary this year as it returns to the RDS from 19 to 21 January 2025.
Established in 1975 by Design & Crafts Council Ireland, the event has grown from a show for domestic buyers alone to a show for buyers from over 20 countries, proving the power and appeal of Irish design and craftmanship globally.
Over the course of the exhibition there will be fabulous fashion displays and insightful talks on the Inspiration Stage from keynote speakers such as Sara Davies and Mary Portas. Both incredible business women and authors who have carved out excellent careers for themselves and are now sharing all their learnings and advice to fellow aspiring business owners and makers.
Winners of the annual Showcase Awards will be announced on Sunday 19 January. There will be almost 400 incredible exhibitors on display, but we have whittled down a few that are definitely ones to watch!
Modh
Modh (pronounced “moe”) is a sustainable Irish textile brand founded by Alison Nea. As a finalist in Irish Country Magazine’s Irish Made Awards for textiles and having also received he prestigious DCCI Future Maker Award, Alison’s dedication to her craft is very inspiring. Inspired by nature and rooted in traditional Irish craft techniques, Modh is focused on slow and sustainable fashion.
Alexa Design by Alexandra Zolich
Originally graduating as an Art Technician, designer Alexandra discussed her love for the intersection of art and textiles while furthering her studies at National Collage of Art & Design (NCAD) pursuing a degree in Textile Design. She has created the most luxurious Nuno Felting wraps with fabrics that are locally sourced and handcrafted. Her patterns are vibrant and incredibly unique. A true statement piece to elevate any look.
Orla Langan
Orla’s designs have a wonderful futuristic feel to them. Leaning into the sporty aesthetic, her brand identity is so strong and really appeals to the huge street style appeal that is growing more and more in popularity. Her clever use of fabrics and extensive research into new materials is very innovative and highlights what can be done to make fashion more sustainable for all.
Adelle Hickey
Having done research work in Design History and Material Culture, Adelle’s designs are inspired by centuries of Irish visual culture such as archaeology, mythology, needlework and Celtic symbols. Each of her creations are designed, hand drawn, hand carved and hand printed in Dublin. From cards and prints to notebooks and linens, Adelle’s designs make for the perfect hand made gift.
Kildare Candle Barn
Kildare Candle Barn is an artisan producer of luxury candles and home fragrance products all of which are hand poured in rural Kildare. Their goal is to create wonderful and unusual scents evoking memories and feelings of happiness and nostalgia. Their candles come in luxurious copper or black vessels that make for a striking piece of home decor as well as a really invigorating scent.