It was useful to delay writing in order to process the complexities of the extraordinary experience that Irish fashion designer Helen Cody created at Christ Church Cathedral on Tuesday 6th. September.
”It is moments like Tuesday evening – rare as they are – that inspire those of us with a true understanding of and passion for the fashion industry to stay the course… an evening of pure magic.”
When she first told me that she had secured the venue I knew she intended something special and that somehow she would make light of the weight of history involved in such a choice.
Rather than imposing or distracting, those sacred aisles provided a fitting stage that sanctified the craftsmanship, skill and imagination that pervaded a most thoughtful and thought out collection.
There was a moment of pure serenity when model Hilary Mohr, pausing immaculately in a burnt rose dress strewn with hand appliqued petals, drew not just the eyes of the entire audience but the breath from every living soul present.
While many will have weighed the value of the collection through its rapturous designs, its exquisite fabrics, its precise and considered detail few will know that fashion is a difficult and often solitary business, requiring a deep determination to keep going season after season, year after year. It is moments like Tuesday evening – rare as they are – that inspire those of us with a true understanding of and passion for the fashion industry to stay the course.
It would be remiss of me not mention the music too, especially the glorious sound of Anuna – an evocative gift wrapping to an evening where the whole was greater than the sum of the parts.
Helen Cody provided a singularly remarkable display of design and craftsmanship and made a very special contribution to the integrity and reputation of Irish fashion. I was thrilled to be there.
It was an evening of pure magic.