Words and Photography Sophie Beddoe.
Coming straight off the back of what was by far the coolest fashion week I’ve
experienced, Dublin Independent Fashion Week, I certainly didn’t expected as much from
Ireland Fashion Week which launched this year for the first time less than a fortnight later.
however Rashhiiid’s debut show was nothing but spectacular.
Rachel Maguire, the founder of the celebrity-loved streetwear brand Rashhiiid, presented an
emotionally charged collection titled “I Survived Myself.” at the Douglas Hyde Gallery.
The Collection
Rashhiiid’s first-ever runway collection was avant-garde and took significant strides for
fashion in Ireland. It featured three distinct stages: Struggle, Rebirth, and Strength.
Struggle: This section showcased prints with a gritty, distressed finish, embodying
the rawness of the struggle against personal challenges.
ACT 1:
The Collection
Rashhiiid’s first-ever runway collection was avant-garde and took significant strides for
fashion in Ireland. It featured three distinct stages: Struggle, Rebirth, and Strength.
Struggle: This section showcased prints with a gritty, distressed finish, embodying
the rawness of the struggle against personal challenges
Rebirth: This part burst with color and playfulness, symbolizing the joy and freedom
Rachel found in fashion design.
Strength: The final stage conveyed elegance and maturity. It featured strong
silhouettes, including leather and lace, evoking independence and power. High
shoulders and sophisticated cuts added to the collection’s overall impact, blending
sexy with strength.
ACT 3:
Notably, the final look included a screen-printed coat that paid tribute to strong women,
featuring tributes to strong Irish women like Veronica Guerin and Nikita Hand.
The Experience
The runway was enhanced by original music and a curated soundtrack by Moio. The show
opened dramatically with his performance on a fur piano, and nothing could have screamed
Rashhiiid more, setting an unforgettable tone. The emotional depth was amplified with
spoken word by Rachel herself, connecting the audience to the personal narratives behind the
collection.
Rashhiiid’s debut was not just a fashion show; it was a powerful statement about
resilience and empowerment. I left feeling inspired and excited for what’s next from this
talented designer.
