RTÉ Today Show's 'Men's Fashion Expert' Rob Kenny, has carefully drafted the ultimate Irish stylish list for 2020. Combining his unique fashion and PR knowledge, Kenny has ranked 40 of the most well-known Irish faces through their wardrobe wins and burgeoning online presence.
Ireland is widely known for its rolling green hills, Celtic ballads, and pints of Guinness, but once you've read through this article I dare you to not add 'incredible fashion sense' to the list.
Admittedly a trait we are not as well known for as some of our European counterparts, throughout this article I have unearthed the hard-hitting, incontestable proof that the Irish can be just as stylish as any French or Dane.
As most of us currently find ourselves with a bit of extra time on our hands, Influencer story views are booming – a sure sign we have the time for a bit of extra Insta creepin’ right now. And if it’s fashion inspiration you are after, look no further.
In no particular order, I give you 40 of the most stylish Irish people to follow right now.
Irish Influencer Marianne Smyth now boasts a massive 240,000 IG followers – not surprising at all once you lay eyes on her feed and, more importantly, her incredible eye for outfits. Marianne’s innate, natural style is what dreams are made of. Expect demure, high-fashion, feminine, structured perfection.
Clémentine rose to social media fashion stardom after becoming well known within Irish media circles due to her successful styling work on such TV shows as Dancing with the Stars and The Voice. Clem’s taste is tailored and elegant with a twist of fun. Every outfit has a subtle edge that makes her stand out.
After Julien Benson (aka Judge Jules), James Kavanagh is undeniably Ireland’s most playful celebrity when it comes to his chosen garments. What some people occasionally don’t understand about James’ looks is that he is so up-to-date with international trends, you may not get it yet. But just you wait.
Louise Cooney has been holding the Irish fashion flag (very) high for many years now. Often the only Irish fashion influencer invited to fabulous events held by some of the world’s biggest brands, from A-List Armani events in Paris to exclusive backstage access to the coveted Victoria Secrets Fashion Show in NY, we couldn’t ask for a better (or more stylish) country rep than Louise. Plus she’s as stunning inside as she is out.
5. Chun Soot
One of Ireland's shining male fashion models, Chun boasts editorial, advertising and catwalk campaigns for the likes of Balmain, Stone Island, Selected Homme, DSquared2, Brown Thomas and many more. Naturally, his stylised Instagram reflects all of the above.
The drop-dead, petite stunner that is Joanna Cooper has a remarkable eye for style. Even her eyebrows and hair look like they should be sitting Frow at PFW. Joanna’s taste is high-fashion, sexy and cool all in one. I want to have Joanna Cooper’s style when I grow up.
Next up is another tiny Irish stunner – enter Lauren Arthurs. The Cork native has a highly enviable ability to go from looking comfy cool to luxury fashion-fabulous in a blink. I share her disdain for a look that is too ‘busy’ so expect to find lots of neutral tones, big sleeves, high waisted gorgeousness, and a sharp heel.
Well used to them due to his broadcasting roles within RTÉ, Stephen Byrne always slays a red carpet look. The presenter brilliantly pulls off street-style cool without ever bordering into tacky or try-hard. He’s also the only Irish celebrity who has dared to rock the return of the 90’s David Beckham ‘curtains’ hair-do trend. And we loved it.
Lucky for all of us, one of Ireland’s top fashion models is not too bad at the ole’ fashion thing herself. Throughout the day, Thalia tends to rock effortlessly cool, grunge-chic looks. Think torn tights, natural curls and Doc Martins. After dark, however, the model is well-known to don some seriously glam attire. Always looking that bit more haute couture than most thanks to her fashion model height and physique.
Neil Patrick Collins is the former Roscommon GAA star turned New York fashion industry hot-shot - not a combination you'd see every day. Collins is now an in-house designer for Japanese label Commes des Garçons, who preview their collections every year in Paris. Expect lots of layering, he’s the king of it.
11. Hannah Saunders
The Powerhouse Irish PR Queen in London is responsible for bringing some of Ireland’s best-known beauty brands to the world stage. And, my God, does Hannah dress the part – you will never catch this woman on an off day. From luxury ski wear to the perfect boss-lady work looks to all-out party glamour, Hannah always makes a lasting impression with her outfit choices. So much so that the PR guru’s Instagram has grown by almost 30,000 followers over the past two years.
12. Ashley Doyle
Another cailín on the list whose natural taste just cannot be taught. Ashley loves French designers, and has a particular soft spot, it would seem, for Chanel. Ashley’s style is very pretty yet impeccably structured. Once you have had a scroll through her Instagram you will know exactly what I mean. Expect a particular rush of jewellery inspiration throughout your creeping.
13. Anouska
Anouska Proetta-Brandon is the queen of how materials touch each other, fit and fall. Stunning draping, high necks, the placement of a belt - Anouska’s talent is in the absence of a lot of detail. She is also a professional photographer herself, so expect a feed that is as much a digital art gallery as it is social media.
14. Niamh Cullen
Fitness and fashion are the primary content pillars of Niamh Cullen’s feed, with lots of humour thrown in due to the Irish girl's bubbly personality. Fashion-wise, Niamh is more of a risk-taker than most ladies we have seen on this list so far. Expect more ‘street style’ looks and lots of playful looks.
15. Kelly Horrigan
Another fashion model on the list, Kelly Horrigan’s fashion sense is almost as sophisticated and symmetrical as her face. Frequently holding a glass of red wine, Kelly always gives the allure of someone who should be socialising in the courtyard of Hôtel Costes with Olivier Rousteing after a show. Think Kendall Jenner vibes.
16. Rozanna Purcell
Roz Purcell is the first hit on our list who prefers bohemian influences,with warm shades, and a slight hippie edge to her everyday style. And she does it well. As an avid-hiker, her daytime outfits look effortless, relaxed, and hippie-cool. Catch her on a red carpet or at a glam event, however, and we have a dramatic transformation. The former Miss Universe Ireland has a killer eye for a standout formal dress or jumpsuit.
17. Dermot Kennedy
Our most exciting international music industry breakthrough since Hozier, it's clear that Dermot Kennedy is meant for big things - and he clearly wants fashion to be a part of that story. Admittedly, it is highly possible that he has a team of stylists behind him... but he wears it so well that he's earned a spot on this list regardless. A lover of over-sized coats, the showcase of a (very carefully chosen) sock under a rolled-up jean, and a beanie hat – Dermot Kennedy looks like one of the cool kids of Berlin. And we’re so here for it.
18. Jodie Wood
Bright sea-blue eyes, a sharp jaw, and perfectly waved hair – these are just a few of the enviable traits of former Beauty Editor, Jodie Wood. However, after you have a good stalk of her IG page, you will see her daily attire is also highly covetable. Mrs. Woods loves clean, fitted, and well-structured looks but she is also happy to adorn a heavily patterned number once in a while. When doing so though, instead of ever being offensively busy, she manages to make every outfit invitingly minimal and clean.
19. Niamh O’Sullivan
An Influencer whose following has grown super-fast over the past two years, Niamh O’Sullivan’s IG content dips between fashion and food. Beautifully photographed and featuring consistent bright, neutral, and minimalist vibes throughout - her page is a feast for the eyes. Niamh’s taste in clothing is simple, clean and elegant. And there’s always a stunning designer bag to spy on.
20. Laura Whitmore
Being a lover of minimalist French brands such as Maje, Claudie Pierlot and Sandro immediately puts Laura Whitmore in my fashion good-books. The TV presenter has always had a natural eye for style and her latest role on Love Island had us repeatedly excited to witness her next chosen look.
21. Sonya Lennon and Brendan Courtney
Fashion stylists, presenters, and co-Lennon Courtney designers, Sonya Lennon and Brendan Courtney live and breathe all things fashion. The pair have a particular talent for how they fit and form the female figure, as is evident in the always stunning designs of their label Lennon Courtney.
Sonya has a quirky, 70s-inspired style with a gorgeous, high-fashion edge while presenting icon Brendan Courtney has been schooling the Irish public on how to dress to impress long before Off The Rails even hit our screens (I still miss it). Both of the design duos Instagram’s are a mix of quick-witted lols and brilliant styling guidance.
22. Darren Kennedy
The fashion presenter and host has been behind such TV shows as #Trending on RTÉ 2 and brought out his own men's skincare range, Kennedy & Co, in collaboration with Eurosales International in 2018. Darren has some fab shirts, adores a three-piece suit, and possibly has the best men’s hair in Ireland.
23. Ciara O'Doherty
Fashion influencer Ciara O'Doherty absolutely boomed last year, with her Instagram shooting up an unbelievable 100,000 followers due to the success of her IGTV styling series. Ciara often pulls from the '80s and '90s with her retro-inspired outfits and is the master of the many ways one can wear a belt.
24. Darren Feeney
Darren Feeney has the job a million Irish girls would kill for – he is the Group Head Stylist of Brown Thomas. Fashion Weeks are a big time for Darren, and you can expect to find him representing Ireland in the frows of Milan and NY. He is an expert collaborator of streetwear and formal wear when it comes to his own looks, however, one must remember that, for Feeney, streetwear means Prada, Givenchy, and Balenciaga.
25. Holly Carpenter
Model turned entrepreneur and writer, Holly is the founder of 'positive energy' accessories brand Lovelift. Years of modelling and a stint on Britain & Ireland's Next Top Model clearly paid off for this Instagram pro as she is incredibly photogenic. Style-wise, Holly is cute, playful and girlie. During the day she loves an oversized jumper and a chunky runner before transforming into night-time glam.
26. Conor O'Donohoe
Wild Youth bandmember Conor O'Donohoe is definitely pulling inspiration from Harry Styles when it comes to both his taste in fashion and his photography. Any Irish man willing to be this brave when it comes to clothes – I'm here to support.
27. Nicola Hughes
Former Made In Chelsea star (and only ever Irish cast member), Nicola Hughes is quite the fashion chameleon. Unafraid to experiment with trends such as colourful tie-dye prints and thick white socks, Nicola also artistically curates her outfit choices into colour themes on her gorgeous Instagram feed. A beautiful account to scroll through.
28. Tim Chadwick
Irish singer-songwriter Tim Chadwick's profile is rising quickly, having been featured by Billboard magazine earlier this year - surely every rising musician's dream? Style-wise, Tim makes this list as he consistently nails tailored cool. The Irish native adds a welcomed glimpse of Parisian street style to the streets of Dublin. His fantastic moustache also deserves a solitary mention.
29. Rebecca O'Byrne
If Carrie Bradshaw and Kate Middleton had a love child, it would be Rebecca O'Byrne. Known as 'Haute So Fabulous' across her social platforms (a highly befitting handle), Rebecca delivers editorial looks. Scrolling through her feed is like flicking through W magazine or Vogue. Expect a lot of monochrome, luxurious fabrics, beautifully curated outfits, and a sharp stiletto.
30. Sophie Shannon
Sophie Shannon is living the ultimate fashion fan's dream – working within the fashion industry in Paris. Once known for her fabulous dreadlocks and eye-catching festival style, it seems Sophie has been influenced by her time spent in the city of lights and is now showcasing a more paired back, classic aesthetic.
31. Courtney Smith
Renowned Irish fashion stylist Courtney Smith is no stranger to best-dressed lists. Courtney's client list stretches from Louis Vuitton to The Sunday Times, meaning that the creative is often abroad for work. This travel-dependent schedule can be seen in Courtney's personal style as she frequently plays with various cultural influences. The stylist turned influencer is also an advocate for sustainable fashion and is known to reinvent existing looks with alterations.
32. Marie Kelly
IMAGE fashion director, Marie Kelly, has been directing, styling and producing fashion shoots for magazines for over 20 years. Marie describes her own style as 'chic and unfussy' and says she uses fashion as her 'armour'. Expect to find Marie adorning oversized pockets, midi skirts, and tailored trousers.
33. Claudine Kehoe
One part of the fabulous Kehoe sister trio, Claudine may be the youngest but, like her sisters, stands alone with her unique sense of style. The bronzed blonde has a wardrobe full of neutral-toned blazers, over-sized coats, and ripped jeans. She is also nailing quarantine style as she has been consistently serving us with a mixture of comfortable loungewear sets and sports luxe realness.
34. Lynn Kelly
The former Miss Universe Ireland has massively upped her fashion game in the last few years, evolving from the classic bandage dress (that every Dublin girl loved back in the day) to more structured, interesting ensembles that make you stop to get a second look.
35. Diana Bunici
If you're a fan of soft, feminine fashion, then Diana Bunici is your girl. Her dainty and pastel wardrobe comes as a contrast to the rock-star style of her boyfriend, Kodaline frontman Steve Garrigan. Diana's fashion strength definitely comes alive in summer so now is the perfect time to follow this natural stunner.
36. Tara Stewart
Retro-Kween Tara Stewart has been making some serious (pollution-free) waves within the Irish fashion and media industries over the past few years. The "Ozzie Indian Irish DJ" hosts an RTÉ podcast series titled Dirty Laundry, where she examines and scrutinises our relationship with clothes and the devastating impact of fast fashion on our planet. Follow Tara for an injection of fun, fluorescent, fearless and fabulous fashion inspiration.
37. Rosie Connelly
Next up is a girl that needs no introduction to most Irish Inata Kweens. With two young kids, I have to hand it to Rosie Connolly - she always finds the time to put together stylish outfits and create fresh content for her staggering 330,000 followers. Rosie is the Kween of pairing an affordable dress from the high street with an expensive pair of designer heels, giving her feed the right balance of attainable yet aspirational.
38. Louise O'Reilly
Louise O'Reilly is an Irish model and award-winning blogger with an eye for style and a voice for recognition. Louise is a proud international voice (and face) for plus-size modelling and has championed the world-wide fashion industry's slow move towards recognising girls of all sizes. This entails inclusion in the designer's final collections, as well as a presence in advertising campaigns.
Definitely one for the Mums out there who feel like upping their fashion game. Melissa is that enviable Mama who rocks up to the school run with a fresh blow-dry and an effortlessly cool outfit. A fan of a structured jumpsuit, a rara skirt and many a pair of Veja's, Melissa is also a shrewd businesswoman. Expect to find a selection of luxurious yet affordable robes from her own gorgeous MMB collection.
40. Seán Ryan
Sean Ryan, better known as Irish R&B artist Why-Axis, has garnered a place on our list due to his alternative urban street style creations. Not many of us could pull off Puma hoodies, and even an Irish soccer jersey, and still look like we're fresh off a shoot with Wonderland magazine.
Follow RTÉ's Fashion Expert @robkenny_ here.
