Liadh Connolly
Pearl Reddington: ‘The stitches tell a story of tradition, the design narrates the language of the present’
Traditional, nostalgic, functional; these are all words that come to mind when one thinks of Irish knitwear. Designer Pearl Reddington hopes to add modern and fun to that list too.
Growing up in a family of artists and entrepreneurs, Pearl Reddington has been making beautiful things since she was little. Crediting her support network with instilling in her a “profound appreciation for the resilience required in unconventional careers”, it was their dedication that gave her the confidence to set out on her own creative pursuits.
However, it wasn’t until her final year as a fashion design student at NCAD that she really delved into the world of knitwear. “Knitting became my liberator,” she smiles, reminiscently. “It granted me the freedom to design my own fabric, unshackling me from the constraints of ready-made materials.”
Traditionally viewed as a textile craft, her design philosophy takes a bold leap away from the familiar. “Knitwear, to me, is a canvas for fashion artistry, allowing full creative control,” she explains. As for many other creatives, this was fundamental for Pearl who prides herself on her individuality. “For me, it’s about weaving the fine art side of fashion into every stitch.”
Created to fill a niche in contemporary knitwear, her designs bridge the gap between conventional and high fashion, holding dear the time-honoured techniques that define Ireland’s rich textile history. “It’s a delicate balancing act between honouring heritage and embracing modernity, where the stitches tell a story of tradition, while the overall design narrates the language of the present,” says Pearl.
This was the starting point for The Nü Aran, a traditional Aran jumper modernised with a clashing neon cuff. “It’s a tribute to the historic skill and hard work of the Irish, and our will to keep working toward a better future,” says Pearl.
In Ireland, our appreciation for traditional knitwear is intrinsic; it’s woven into our national identity. Yet connecting with new customers posed less of a challenge than you might think. “It was an opportunity to showcase that knitwear is a vibrant tapestry of our heritage, cherished by all age groups. We wear our history with pride, and the younger generation embraces it with the same fervour as their predecessors… each piece is a touch of Ireland’s magic that accompanies you on every journey.”
The creative journey begins with sketches, which transform into detailed technical designs, laid out like roadmaps. It’s a thoroughly tactile process, about much more than just aesthetics. “It’s about how the fabric feels against the skin, how it drapes, and how it tells the story I want to convey. So, when you see a piece of Pearl Reddington knitwear, know that it’s not just a garment; it’s a culmination of months of inspiration, design evolution, and a meticulous journey from concept to creation.”
Sustainability is also at the forefront; as much a fabric of each garment as the yarn itself. Every thread tells a story of eco-conscious craftsmanship. The commitment to producing entirely in Ireland speaks volumes – from the locally spun raw wool in Kilcar, Donegal, to the meticulous handcrafting of each button. Even the swing tags bear the stamp of sustainability, screen printed in Dublin.
Making the move from Raheny to Dromahair in Leitrim last year, everything is designed, created and finished in Pearl’s home. Interestingly, keeping things local has only become easier as demand continues to grow. “In the early days, being a small player made it tough to find manufacturers willing to take on stages of my production. However, as my track record of orders has increased, meeting minimum quantities and upscaling have become more feasible.
“It’s a transparent evolution – one that acknowledges the hurdles of being a small entity and celebrates the newfound capacity to keep the production close-knit, quite literally.”
The shift toward a slower, more intentional way of shopping, aligns perfectly with both her values and vision for the future. Customers who appreciate the craftsmanship behind their garments – even if it means a bit of a wait – afford her complete creative freedom. “It’s a symbiotic relationship,” she clarifies. “Patience becomes a virtue, and the narrative of each piece extends beyond trends.”
That said, the financial side of things will always be a worry and learning to not only sustain but nurture her fledgling brand has been the greatest learning curve. What does success look like to her? Well, it’s about more than just survival, for one. “It’s about thriving in the place I call home. The dream? To establish my own production mill, a hub of local talent and materials, where a dedicated team of knitters craft garments to the highest standard. It’s not just about creating beautiful pieces; it’s about fostering a local legacy that radiates the spirit of Ireland’s craftsmanship to the world.” No doubt she’ll get there, one stitch at a time.
Photography by Liadh Connolly
IMAGE Winter 2023
The Winter issue of IMAGE is here, and festive sparkles are on our mind, from our fashion shoot full of party-ready pieces to the home of jeweller Chupi Sweetman-Durney which is full of glinting gold. Plus, we learn how to make the most of festive leftovers, and are planning a winter break to remember. Plus: * Big knits * Cool corduroy * In studio with Pearl Reddington * Audrey Hepburn’s Irish connections * Confidence at work * A Kilimanjaro adventure * Beauty gifts to give yourself * Practical magic * A ski retreat with a difference * Weekend escapes * and so much more…
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