Sybil Connolly was head designer for the Richard Alan label in Dublin during the 1940s/50s. She is best known for her finely pleated linen and wool designs. America’s First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and other celebrities such as Julie Andrews and Elizbeth Taylor wore her designs, and her work was featured in Harper’s Bazaar.

Sybil incorporated intricate traditional crafts such as Carrickmacross lace in her designs. She recognised Carrickmacross lace as a core element of Irish heritage. In her hands, Carrickmacross lace was again incorporated into glamourous and luxurious fashion items.

Sybil worked some of her Carrickmacross lace in colour rather than traditional white. Featured in this photo is an evening gown entitled Pink Ice.

Credits: Evening gown, Pink Ice | Sybil Connolly | Textile, Satin, Lace | 20th century | Private loan to Sybil Connolly Collection, Hunt Museum | CC0