CAROLINE LEAHY

DESIGN & STYLE

Caroline,

her love of fashion and style comes from a creative point.

Her attitude is always relaced, but determined, though not competitive.

She balances a successful business career with her busy family life. Caroline and her husband Monty have two teenage sons, Jason and Sean along with their 'pedigree mongrel' Pepsi.

A little History

Caroline started off her business in 1992, initially creating casual sweaters for men, women and children. . Oversized sweaters with millions of bobbles was the trend of that time. It didn't take her long to notice that there was a niche in the market for unusual occasion wear, and realising that she had a flair for design she decided that this was the way to go. When her evening wear reached the finals of the Late Late Show Fashion Awards in 1997 she decided it was time to specialise. Obviously no five year plan here, but after 16 years and still going strong she must be doing something right.

Her work has been well received on Off The Rails, Ireland Am with Celia Holman Lee, and Nationwide. VIP Magazine request her pieces for their celebrity shoots and The Sunday Independent have done a full page feature on her collection.

Caroline has designed dresses the 'Roses' for their TV stage interviews. This year however, due to the demand for her new consultation business, she has decided to take a step back and instead is designing a simple gown for Laura Costelloe, our Kerry Rose, which she will wear on the night of the Street Parade.

Liadan Hynes of the Sunday Independent reviewed the Rose of Tralee Fashion Show and had this to say about Caroline ...."Tralee-based designer Caroline Leahy, a stylish woman who, with a model's figure, is probably the best model of her own clothes I've ever come across amongst designers, had some gorgeous full-length white knitted dresses, and a finale bridal piece with a white fluffy swan-like shrug. "

And now, This is where it all gets personal!!

In my crochet design business, I have noticed that I have two very different types of clients. On one hand I have the lady who is looking for something totally unique, unusual, dramatic. This woman is willing to travel the length and breadth of Ireland to find exactly what she wants and that is why my custom base is so widespread. Then there is the other extreme. The woman who just couldn't face the thought of trawling boutiques for an outfit, instead she would prefer a relaxed visit to my studio, off the beaten track, away from the crowds, plenty parking and maybe even lunch in 'Hartys', our local restaurant.

My point? Just to let you know that the crochet designs and the style consultations are for everyone. There is no need to feel intimidated. For the past 16 years, I have always given my client all the attention, time and patience needed while choosing their crocheted outfit, and this same service is provided for the style and colour consultations. While corporate sessions must be concise, I prefer to conduct the personal sessions in a relaxed mode, ensuring the client understands everything and all queries are addressed.

I hope you have enjoyed browsing through the website. If you have any questions at all please give me a ring. I hope you'll take the next step and book a consultation. It's both a rewarding and enjoyable experience, where you can relax and have a cup of coffee while learning how to make the most of yourself.

I'll be looking forward to meeting you.

Caroline