Tributes have been pouring in for celebrated Irish fashion designer Catriona Hanly following her sudden passing over the weekend.
The 52-yr-old designer and socialite died unexpectedly at her home in Ballsbridge, Co Dublin on Saturday, reports The Irish Sun.
A native of Roscommon, Catriona studied design at the prestigious St Martin’s College in London and was a leading figure in the Irish fashion industry.
Her death notice, published on Saturday, confirmed that funeral arrangements will be shared at a later date, reports The Irish Sun.
It read: “Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her heartbroken family.
“Beloved daughter of Bertie and Imelda, cherished sister of Alan, Marcus, Enda and Tara, sisters-in-law Olga, Linda and Sinead, brother-in-law Neil. Fondly remembered by her nieces, nephews, aunts, uncle, cousins, relatives, neighbours, and a wide circle of friends in Ireland and around the world,” reports The Irish Sun.
Catriona’s creations were worn by numerous celebrities, including Madison McKinley from *Wolf of Wall Street*, Yolanda Kettle from *The Crown*, Laura Whitmore, and Amanda Byram.
Daniella Moyles, Ash Quinn, Alison Canavan, Lorraine Keane, Anna Daly, Celia Holman, Vivienne Connolly, Amy Huberman, and Claire Byrne were among those who showcased her designs in Dublin, reports The Irish Sun.
She was also celebrated for her charitable contributions.
In a 2021 interview with RSVP, she said: “I have worked with the Rape Crisis Foundation, the Hope Foundation, the Cancer Care West charity, the Pink Ribbon Foundation, the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, the Respect Charity Summer Lunch fundraiser and the Breast Cancer Foundation – and I’ve organised fashion shows to raise money for such worthy causes,” reports The Irish Sun.
Since her passing, tributes have continued to flood in, with mourners saying she “lit up every room she walked into.”
One friend commented: “Completely devastated to hear about Caitriona’s passing. Caitríona was a wonderful friend to me.
“She was the most thoughtful person, with a heart of gold. She was one of a kind and will be truly missed,” reports The Irish Sun.
Another added: “Triona had such an incredible zest for life. Her laughter, energy, and joy had a way of lighting up every place she went.
“She sure did touch so many lives, leaving a piece of her in all our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this terribly difficult time,” reports The Irish Sun.
A third mourner wrote: “A beautiful talented and exceptionally gifted girl who brought delight to many with her designs and creativity.
“Her wonderful work will always be admired and appreciated by future students of couture,” reports The Irish Sun.
A former employee, who worked with Catriona at her interiors shop in Newbridge, Co Kildare nearly 20 years ago, recalled her “truly unforgettable” energy.
She said: “Though it was only for about one year, she made such a lasting impression; her warmth, creativity, and energy were truly unforgettable. Thinking of all her family and loved ones at this very sad time,” reports The Irish Sun.
Another mourner remarked that Ireland feels “a darker place without Catriona’s sparkle.”
She said: “Catríona was a true original who burned bright and touched so many lives with her creativity, sense of fun and warmth.
“It was a pleasure to work with her and to get to know Catríona over the years. She was a tour de force. Ireland is a darker place without her sparkle,” reports The Irish Sun.
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