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TRIBUTES have poured in for renowned Irish fashion designer Catriona Hanly after her sudden death over the weekend.
The 52-year-old fashion designer and socialite passed away suddenly in her home in Ballsbridge, Co Dublin on Saturday.
The Roscommon native, who studied design at the prestigious St Martin’s College in London, was a leading figure in the Irish fashion scene.
Catriona’s death notice was published on Saturday, confirming her funeral details will be announced at a later stage.
It said: “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.”
Catriona’s designs were worn by a number of celebrities, with Madison McKinley from Wolf Of Wall Street, Yolanda Kettle from The Crown, Laura Whitmore and Amanda Byram being some of the big names who donned her fashion.
Daniella Moyles, Ash Quinn and Alison Canavan, Lorraine Keane, Anna Daly, Celia Holman, Vivienne Connolly, Amy Huberman, and Claire Byrne were among those who stepped out in her designs in Dublin.
And Catriona was also known for her charitable spirit.
Speaking with RSVP in 2021 she revealed: “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.”
Tributes have been flooding in for Catriona since her passing on Saturday, with mourners telling how she “lit up every room she walked into”.
One pal said: “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.”
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.”
‘TRULY UNFORGETTABLE’
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.”
A former employee, who worked for Catriona in her interiors shop in Newbridge, Co Kildare almost two decades ago, told how she had a “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.”
Another mourner told how Ireland is “a darker place without Catriona’s sparkle”.
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