Sorcha O’Raghallaigh (we had to check, it’s pronounced ‘raleigh’) created quite a storm with her Central Saint Martins graduate collection in 2010 - ethereal, Miss Havisham-esque brides draped in crochet, lace and charms stalked the catwalk on stilts. It’s safe to say that all of Sorcha’s subsequent designs have featured the same level of drama and intrigue; multi layered pieces made from delicate lace and adorned with religious trinkets have become her signature style.
Since she graduated, Sorcha has created incredible outfits for the ultimate designer’s muse, Lady Gaga – remember the crazy headless priest dress that Mama Monster wore on the X Factor 2012? That was created by none other than Miss O’Raghallaigh, after the concept was proposed by Sorcha’s collaborator, stylist Anna Trevelyan. Celebrity clients aside, we have fallen madly in love with Sorcha’s intricate, mysterious and beautiful work.
Selfridges can obviously spot great design talent, because they have included Sorcha in this year’s Bright Young Things project, which launched this week. The department store is showcasing and selling the work of sixteen rising stars in fashion, art and lifestyle design. We’ve chosen our favourite ten womenswear pieces from the project – if you are keen to get ahead of the game when it comes to fashion’s next big thing, or want to support new talent, now is the perfect time to invest in one of these garments, while getting something completely unique for your wardrobe at the same time.
Read on to hear what Sorcha had to say about her inspirations, working with Lady Gaga and the experience of being a Bright Young Thing:
