Orla Kiely the Queen of Print
01 June 2011Nicky
I first discovered Orla Kiely seven years ago, when one of my team introduced to me her beautiful, bold bags. Needless to say it was love at first sight! I was curious to find out more about the woman behind these iconic designs, and have been busy researching this compelling British brand. 
Irish born Orla Kiely has become an Inspiration to many. Creating designs Inspired by her love of 60’s and 70’s design, her interpretation of this era is apparent in her prints which are clean, modern and all about colour.
I am lucky enough to be a buyer for Insideout and Gottohaveit . Every 6 months, I have the opportunity to visit the Orla Kiely showroom in London and preview the new collections. Just entering the showroom makes my mouth water, the room itself is an inspiration, her love of retro 60 and 70’s style is evident everywhere you look, from the massive retro TV to the simplistic furniture.
Orla Kiely initially qualified as a Textile Designer in Dublin, and started her career working for a wallpaper and fabric designer in New York, later she moved to England to work for Esprit. Whilst at Esprit, she completed a Masters degree at the Royal College of Art in London, and 1993 Harrods bought her exit collection of hats from the RCA, they clearly recognised a fantasic emerging talent when they saw one! Over the next few years Orla Kiely completed design work for numerous companies including Marks & Spencer and Habitat.
Whilst researching I was very fortunate to stumble across these images of Orla Kiely’s childrens workwear range from an archive of student’s work from the Royal College of Art.
Many thanks to the Royal College of Art for giving me permission to use them.
I for one am instantly attracted to Orla Kiely prints, I am drawn to the simplicty and clever use of repeats which are meticulously thought through. There seems to be a limitless number of products that have already benefited from her expert touch.
Orla Kiely and her husband Dermott Rowan launched the Orla Kiely label in 1997, renowned for chic, funky and feminine style Orla Kiely is a true success story.
Described by the Guardian as “the Queen of Prints”, it seems fitting that she was featured on a stamp in July 2010; her designs certainly get my stamp of approval!
Orla Kiely’s Autumn Winter Collection 2012 won’t disappoint. I can’t wait for our delivery to arrive and no doubt will spend the day drooling over the new bags, whilst having a debate with myself over which one I’ve got to have! This year for the first time I will be visiting her showroom an additional time to view a new capsule collection, my mouth is watering already!
Click here to view Orla Kiely's current range.
