John Rocha

 I couldn't have a journal about what inspires me without mentioning, who I think, is Ireland's leading designer John Rocha.

There are many reasons why I believe he deserves this title.

First and foremost is for his unique visual sensibility.

The second reason is for his commitment to stay true to his aesthetics whilst creating a remarkable business.

And, thirdly because he has achieved great success, despite staying in Ireland (a challenge which only those who are in this industry, in this country, will understand).

Personally I celebrate other people's achievements, even more, when those who succeed are generous and kind.

I admire John and his wife Odette. They have always been wonderfully warm and encouraging in our occasional encounters, which I wish were more frequent.

He once said in a speech.... "if I can do it, anyone can....even if it takes you 25 years"...

Thank you for sketching a path for other Irish designers to follow...

John Rocha has a wonderful shop on Dover Street, London

www.johnrocha.ie

Comments

[Lisa Dora]

I would have to agree, i just love the softness of john rochas collections. Every time i see a new collection i feel like hopping on fluffy clouds. They have such a beautiful lightness to them and i love how he uses texture in his designs.....ahhhh...just dreamy,isn't it?!

[helen james]

Totally agree a true Fashion Inspiration, and all the more so for making it while here, where one can feel like they are constantly swimming uptide !

[Silent Storyteller]

Yes exactly...swimming uptide....or being dragged into a never ending whirlpool...

[Jane Flanagan]

I love John Rocha too! He always strikes me as the most modest man.

And, on a personal note, the first "designer" thing I bought was when I was in secondary school and it was a John Rocha sweater from the old Brown Thomas on the other side of Grafton St. I saved for weeks to buy it.