Izzy O'Reilly

This womens-wear collection is conversely inspired by male boxing culture during the mid 20th century in Ireland.
the work plays on the stereotypical identity polarities of an earlier era.

Throughout the collection, there is an interplay between established tailoring techniques and moments of experimental design and construction.
The neat silhouette of a 1940s women’s costume is contrasted against the bulky physique of the star boxer’s body, idealised during the same era.

“Inspired by my grandparents, the elegant femininity of my grandmother, depicted by tailored separates, contrasts with bulging latex inflatables reminiscent of the muscle of her prizefighter husband, himself a stylish dresser.”

This collection catalogs some of the research material, aesthetic reference points and artefacts of family history that influenced her work. Much of the research material consists of re-publishings of articles found in boxing journals and books of the mid 1940s. It serves as a backdrop to the collection And underscores the social and personal experiences of those who made up the boxing community of this era.