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How a self-taught Irish designer became fashion's viral sensation overnight

A stage design dropout turned couture disruptor—his costumes went viral, his studio sits above Dublin's chicest boutique. Now, ready-to-wear awaits. Mentored by Chloé's ex-designer, Aurelio blends Instagram trends with old-Hollywood glamour. The result? A fashion revolution brewing in Dublin.

The image shows a poster for the Dublin Folk Festival 1975, featuring a variety of musical...
The image shows a poster for the Dublin Folk Festival 1975, featuring a variety of musical instruments such as a guitar, a harp, a flute, and a drum set. The poster also has text written on it, likely providing information about the festival.

How a self-taught Irish designer became fashion's viral sensation overnight

Oran Aurelio, a self-taught designer from Ireland, has quickly made a name for himself in fashion. His bold creations for musicians like CMAT and Chappell Roan have gone viral, reaching millions online. Now, he’s preparing to launch his first ready-to-wear collection after debuting a demi-couture line last autumn. Aurelio originally studied stage and production design at IADT before shifting his focus to costume design. His work caught the attention of pop star CMAT, whom he met through Instagram. He went on to shape the visual style of her album, gaining widespread recognition.

Last year, he unveiled a demi-couture collection, selling pieces directly to clients and stocking them in Dublin’s Om Diva boutique. The shop’s owner, Ruth Ni Loinsigh, has since provided him with a studio space above the store. His former professor, Peter O’Brien—a veteran of brands like Chloé and Rochas—remains one of his strongest supporters. For inspiration, Aurelio draws from diverse sources: travels, classic films, and even social media platforms like Instagram.

With his debut ready-to-wear collection on the way, Aurelio continues to expand his influence in fashion. His designs, already seen by millions, now have a growing presence in Dublin’s retail scene. The support of mentors and collaborators suggests further opportunities ahead.

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