We are firmly in wedding season, which means planning a few - if not many - wedding guest outfits.
From dress codes to dressing to suit the venue or time of year, pulling together multiple outfits that you feel comfortable and relaxed in can be a challenge, not to mention expensive.
Of course, if you didn't want to commit to buying a standout item, or are simply trying to be more sustainable in your fashion choices, renting is always an option. We're spoiled for choice when it comes to fashion rentals in Ireland.
However, if you're in the mood to buy something you'll cherish and re-wear, here are our picks on Irish brands to shop for something extra special this wedding season.
August Night
Designer Caoimhe Grant cut her teeth working as a senior designer with John Rocha and later Simone Rocha for more than 18 years, collaborating on their catwalk and high street collections, and this experience is poured into her dazzling handbags.
Luxurious, playful and ethereal, her bags feature bows, knots, twists and ruffles in satins and metallic fabrics, making them the star of any outfit. Prices start at €165 for her striking Knot Clutch bags, while her Ruche Clutch bags (above), which come in a range of versatile colours, cost €255. We also love her Petal Cinch bags (above, €265).
Inner Island
For some special occasion sparkle that won't break the bank but still delivers on elegance, look no further than Inner Island. Founded by Gemma O'Leary and self-described as "fine jewellery for women who are choosing fewer, better things", Inner Island offer a range of sculptural pieces from
The team also accept commissions for bespoke pieces, working with customers to craft something extra special whether that's an entirely new design or reworking a cherished heirloom. We especially love the Strata Statement Earrings with Pearl (€150, above) and the Sister Hoops (€75).
Mary O'Sullivan
Limerick-based designer Mary O'Sullivan has won praise for her reimagining of traditional fashion prints and techniques, and while her bespoke pieces take longer to make, they are undoubtedly a worthy investment if you're willing to splurge.
Her corsets and mini dresses, often covered in her own 'Limerick toile de jouy' fabric, depicting the landmarks of her home county, have been worn by Louise Cantillon, Limerick RoseLeah McMahon and Celia Holman Lee to name just a few.
Though if you're going for it, probably best to avoid a white design as a wedding guest!
Triona
Designed with history literally sewn in, Triona is a brand that blends contemporary design with heritage practices. Located in the heart of Ardara, Co Donegal, the brand is committed to preserving the rich heritage of Donegal Tweeds, and uses 100% Irish lambswool in their tweeds.
They also offer a range of stunning linen pieces, ideal for warm summer weddings. We're loving the The Mustard Cara Irish Linen Blazer (€359) and matching Bridget Trousers (€249), in a sunny shade of golden yellow, which could be worn together as a suit or separately.
Nimiiny
For something less formal but just as stunning, Georgina Wilkinson's brand Nimiiny is the one to go for. This independent womenswear label specialises in handmade, slow fashion pieces that put the spotlight on silhouettes that are comfortable and chic, and fabric that is eye-catching.
From elegant two-piece sets to figure-hugging dresses in checks and polka dots, Wilkinson does limited drops of each design depending on how much fabric she has sourced for each one - which means when they're gone, they're gone!
For the brides and bridesmaids-to-be out there, she also creates bespoke bridal designs, and even designed her own bridal party looks for her wedding.
AOIFE
Founded in 2014 by Aoife Rooney, AOIFE specialises in jaw-dropping statement designs that are created with circularity in mind. From architectural folds and intricate pleating, to refined smocking and delicate ruching, their dresses and separates are bold and expressive.
That said, they're designed with versatility in mind, so a piece would be a true wardrobe staple. We're especially loving their take on denim, transforming the everyday fabric into statement pieces. Their Denimure Cropped Blazer (€465), with a ruffled front and eye-catching abstract pattern, would be ideal for a fun, non-traditional wedding look.
So Roe
Founded in 2024 by Róisín Heffernan, So Roe creates garments as part of curated drops of limited-edition pieces. The brand was one of a few to feature in last year's Irish Sea Show as part of Ireland Fashion Week and has been on the rise since.
You'll have to keep your eyes peeled for their latest drops, but expect delicately constructed ruffle tops like the Isla Top (€180), mini dresses, bright and intricate patterns and more.
Magpie Rose
If you're more of a classic black dress girl but you love colourful accessories, this is the jewellery brand for you.
Based in Clontarf in Dublin and founded by designer Diane Woods, Magpie Rose crafts statement pieces using colourful and unique geodes and gemstones. Each piece is handmade and come in a range of styles, from ornate dangling earrings and chunky studs that showcase the stunning colours of the geodes, to fabulous T-bar chain necklaces with gem pendants.
We're loving the Theia collection, especially the Aqua Earrings (above, €80).
Maya Grisham
If it's good enough for CMAT, it is more than good enough for us, and what says 'special occasion' more than an entirely crystal-covered purse?
Best known for her crystal-embellished Kerrygold Butter bag that CMAT wore to the 2025 Mercury Prize, designer Kimberly Tino has been serving up pure delight with each new design. Although the butter bag (above) would set you back €750, her Evil Eye Crystal Clutch is currently on sale for €300.
Dare to Howl
With exaggerated silhouettes in luxurious fabrics, Dare To Howl isn't for shrinking violets. The Donegal-based label was founded by Hollie Marie Gallagher and was recently worn by Laura Whitmore in Hot Press. The designs merge Irish heritage materials, with slow fashion principles and challenge fast fashion culture.
If you want to see the pieces in person you can browse a curated edit of Dare to Howl garments at The Slow Concept, a concept store in Dingle, Co Kerry dedicated to slow fashion, independent creators, and thoughtful design along Ireland's wild Atlantic coast.
