Kildare designers to take part in major fashion show

Ireland’s biggest fashion show is back, and two Kildare designers will be among those in the spotlight as the much-loved ARC Fashion Show returns to the RDS Concert Hall on Thursday, 23rd April 2026.

The county will be proudly represented on the night by local designers Clíona O’Brien, creator of luxury sleepwear brand Moon+Mellow, and Nessa Cronin, founder of Irish occasion-wear label Monessa Joan. Based in Kildare, O’Brien is known for beautifully crafted pyjamas and robes made from the finest organic cotton voile, while Cronin designs sustainable, modular dresses made in Ireland and created to be worn, re-worn and reinvented for life’s most special moments.

Now marking its eleventh year, the ARC Fashion Show has become a standout fixture in the Irish fashion calendar, bringing together the very best of Irish design talent while raising vital funds for ARC Cancer Support Centres. Sponsored by Davy, this year’s show will feature stunning collections from 30 Irish fashion and accessories designers, showcased to an audience of over 800 guests.

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The evening will present an inspiring mix of fashion and accessories, from luxurious Irish tweeds and linens to soft merino knits, alpaca, cashmere, organic cottons and silks. Guests can expect a diverse range of daywear, leisurewear and evening looks, with all funds raised going directly towards ARC’s free psychological, emotional, educational and practical support services for men, women and children affected by cancer.

Produced by Eddie Shanahan, the show will unfold on a grand catwalk set against a spectacular electronic backdrop. One of the most moving moments of the evening will be the ARC Angels sequence, featuring four women who have experienced cancer or are currently undergoing treatment. Created by artist and designer Caroline Duffy, this powerful runway moment brings the total number of ARC service users who have modelled in the show over the years to an incredible 44.

From couture and contemporary fashion to heritage knitwear and accessories, this year’s line-up includes AndTate by Sharon Hoey, August Night, Caroline Duffy, Éadach by Sara O’Neill, Noema James, alongside iconic heritage brands such as Magee 1866, Celtic Tweed, Kindred of Ireland, Urban Aran and Original Ireland. Outerwear, leisure and swimwear will be showcased by Jack Murphy, The Linen Shirt Company and Mona Swims, with accessories, millinery and jewellery from Emerald & Wax, Sarah Foy, Hazel Greene and Pearl Reddington.

The show will close with a spectacular finale by internationally acclaimed Irish brand Kindred of Ireland, promising a memorable end to an unforgettable night.

Speaking ahead of the event, Deirdre Grant, CEO of ARC Cancer Support Centres, said: “We are delighted to partner with our Main Sponsor, Davy, to bring guests the 11th edition of our ARC Fashion Show. A night of entertainment and fun, in the very best of style, awaits — all in aid of our clients and their loved ones who rely on us to be there when they need us most.”

Founded in 1994, ARC Cancer Support Centres provide psychological, emotional, educational and practical services to individuals and families affected by cancer. With centres located in Dublin at Eccles Street, South Circular Road and Herbert Avenue, all ARC services are offered completely free of charge.

The ARC Fashion Show takes place on Thursday, 23rd April 2026 at the RDS Concert Hall, Dublin 4. Doors open at 7pm, with the show starting at 8pm. Tickets are priced at €70 and are available now here https://eventmaster.ie/custom/event/ARCFashionShow2026