Orla Kiely Says Farewell to the Internet
It’s a sad day for fans of glittery 1970s prints when the bold Irish brand Orla Kiely shutters its online shop and shuts its boutique windows in Britain and Ireland. The parent company, Kiely Rowan, hit the administrators’ desk earlier this week.
The Legacy of a Pattern‑Queen
Founded in 1995, Orla’s label sailed to stardom with a signature stem motif that graces everything from handbags to bedspreads. Even the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, has shown off a handful. “It’s like wearing a piece of the 70s at every moment,” the designer said when she first launched.
What Happens Next?
- • Kiely’s Home and Design will keep thriving, distributing accessories and homeware through partner retailers.
- • The two London stores in Chelsea and Covent Garden, plus the Irish outlet at Kildare Village, have closed.
- • The business is now a typical casualty of the high‑street slump: shrinking spend, rising wages, higher taxes and a sprinting online market.
Classics Still on Display
The Fashion and Textile Museum in London is still showcasing a treasure trove of Kiely’s work. Visitors can peek at over 150 patterns, collaborative products, and pieces created with photographers, film directors, and architects.
The “A Life In Pattern” exhibition will run until September 23—no early curtain calls.
Takeaway
When the spotlight dims on a beloved brand, you can only hope the style pages still sparkle in the hearts of their devotees. Maybe the next wave of designs will pop up somewhere, and the old, familiar patterns will find fresh life in new lanes.
