Photographed (L-R) is Model Abigail wearing a design from Clodagh’s collection ‘Anna’s Studio’ and Clodagh Leavy from Co. Meath, this year’s winner of the Brown Thomas Arnotts ‘Designer to Watch’ Bursary Award with Darren Feeney, Head of Art Direction and Creative, Brown Thomas Arnotts and Angela O’Kelly, Head of Design for Body and Environment at NCAD. Photo: Leon Farrell, Photocall Ireland.

Meath fashion student wins ‘Designer to Watch’ Bursary award

A STAMULLEN fashion student has been named as this year’s winner of the Brown Thomas Arnotts ‘Designer to Watch’ Bursary Award 2025.

Clodagh Leavy, a final year fashion design student at the National College of Art and Design (NCAD), won the award for her collection titled ‘Anna’s Studio’, which was inspired by her grandmother Anna-Marie Leavy, a watercolour artist.

As the winner of this year’s award, Clodagh will receive a bursary worth € 4,000 and the opportunity to display her collection at Brown Thomas Arnotts this summer.

Speaking about her collection, Clodagh said: "I’m delighted to have been chosen for the ‘Designer to Watch’ Bursary – ‘Anna’s Studio’ is a heartfelt tribute to my granny, Anna-Marie Leavy, who was a watercolour artist. This collection is not just inspired by her work, but by the relationship we had and the deep influence she had on my own creative journey.

“Her studio was a room filled with colour, texture, chaos and stories. I’ve translated that intimate, lived-in beauty into garments that honour her artistic process and the vibrant energy she brought to everything she touched. Each piece is infused with elements drawn from her studio and wardrobe - using decorative techniques like textile painting, embroidery, quilting, smocking, and elastication to bring her world to life through texture and detail.

“‘Anna’s Studio’ is a celebration of colour and creativity that captures the essence of my granny’s bright personality. It invites the wearer to experience a sense of joy, nostalgia, and bold self-expression, just as she always encouraged in me.”

Announcing the winner at NCAD, Darren Feeney, Head of Art Direction and Creative, Brown Thomas Arnotts, said the standard was incredibly high but Clodagh's collection had stood out.

“The standard from this year’s fifteen finalists was incredibly high, but Clodagh Leavy’s collection truly stood out. Inspired by her grandmother’s art, she presented beautifully hand-painted garments that showcased a confident use of colour, volume, and texture. The variety of materials and personal storytelling was reflected both in her creativity and skills. We’re delighted to showcase her creations in our store this summer and look forward to supporting the next chapter of her creative journey."