Sybil Connolly, known as “Dublin’s Dior,” was a pioneering Irish fashion designer who gained international fame in the 1950s. She became one of the first Irish designers to achieve global recognition, showcasing her work in major U.S. department stores like Bloomingdale’s and Lord & Taylor in New York. Connolly’s use of traditional Irish textiles, such as handwoven linen and lace, set her apart in the luxury fashion world.

Her star-studded clientele included Jackie Kennedy Onassis, who famously wore a Sybil Connolly dress for her official White House portrait, as well as Hollywood icons like Adele Astaire and Julie Andrews. Connolly’s designs were frequently featured in top fashion magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, further establishing her as a leading name in high fashion.

Today, her legacy is honored at the Hunt Museum in Limerick, where her iconic pieces are on permanent display. Connolly also played a key role in boosting the Irish economy by employing local artisans and promoting Irish craftsmanship to an international audience, enhancing the country’s post-independence fashion industry.

For fashion collectors or those with a passion for vintage design, Sybil Connolly’s creations remain highly sought after and stand as a testament to the lasting impact of Irish fashion design.

This beautiful and historic dress is pleated linen, which was created by closely pleating up to nine yards of linen handkerchief material to produce one yard of delicate fabric. It could be packed away and ‘emerge unscathed’, making it popular with the new modern woman. Jackie Kennedy, one of America’s most important style icons, wore one of Sybil’s pleated linen dresses for her official White House portrait. This is the very best Irish design.  Rare.

Size 4

Measurements laid flat.

Bust: 39cm

Waist: 29cm

Length: 114cm