Meet the designer: Aoife Harvey from Claudy

Meet the designer: Aoife Harvey from Claudy

Meet Aoife Harvey, accomplished young designer from  Claudy, Co. Derry. Here she talks to Aoife McManus about her inspirations, what she loves the most about fashion and what she loves about what she does.

Q. Tell me a bit about how and why you got started in the industry?

I’ve always been a creative person — from drawing and painting to anything hands-on and crafty, I’ve loved it all. That passion led me to study Art and Design at North West Regional College in Limavady, where I spent three amazing years — two studying BTEC Art & Design and one in Foundation Art & Design. It was during that time I discovered my love for textiles.

I then went on to study at Ulster University in Belfast, which was a four-year journey including a placement year that really helped shape my future. Those years were incredible — I learned everything I needed to equip me for the fashion design world , I found my passion for sustainable fashion. That spark inspired my final year collection "Waste to Wardrobe", which I showcased at Manchester Fashion Week and Paris Sustainable Fashion Week.

That collection opened so many doors — I’ve been honoured with awards like winning the Tv show BBC One’s "A Stitch Through Time" winner, Ulster Tatler’s Contribution to Fashion 2024, and more. It’s been such an exciting journey, and I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come.

Q. What does fashion mean to you?

To me, fashion is about more than just trends — it’s about being eco-conscious while staying stylish. I believe in creating clothes that not only look amazing but also stand the test of time. Sustainability and longevity are always at the heart of what I do.

ABOVE: A stunning detailed corset design by Aoife Harvey

Q. Who inspires your style and your designs?

I’m inspired by timeless styles throughout history — those classic silhouettes and details that never go out of fashion. I’m also deeply motivated by the creative challenge of sourcing reclaimed and vintage fabrics and turning them into something new and exciting.

There’s something magical about seeing potential in a fabric or garment others might overlook. Giving new life to those pieces genuinely excites me!

Q. Who are your favourite brands/designers/places to shop?

I’m a huge fan of charity shops, vintage stores, and platforms like Vinted — they’re absolute treasure troves for anyone who loves upcycling or sourcing unique, high-quality materials.

When it comes to designers, I admire brands like Stella McCartney for their dedication to sustainability. They’re pioneering change in the industry — from using sustainable leather and plant-based dyes to ensuring supply chain transparency. That kind of innovation is really inspiring.

ABOVE: A beautiful salmon pink two piece design by Aoife Harvey 

Q. What trends are you excited about at the minute?

I’m loving how more and more brands are taking a stand against fast fashion — especially seeing high-end designers embrace circular fashion, regenerative fabrics, and zero-waste production methods. It’s so exciting to see sustainability becoming a real movement and not just a buzzword.

ABOVE: Another gorgeous embossed corset design by Aoife Harvey

Q. What do you love the most about what you do?

Honestly? I love the challenge of transforming something that’s been discarded or forgotten into something beautiful and desirable again. There’s such a sense of pride in that process.

I also absolutely love meeting people at markets who truly appreciate the craftsmanship and story behind every piece.

And I’m incredibly lucky to share my knowledge as a part-time lecturer at NWRC. Teaching the next generation of designers and watching their ideas come to life is such a rewarding part of my journey.

Loving what you do really is everything — and I feel so fortunate to say I do.

Up keep up to date with Aoife Harvey and her work follow @ah.designs___