Ireland's Eye is a small, long-uninhabited island off the coast of County Dublin, situated directly north of Howth village and harbour. The rugged island is home for large numbers of indigenous sea birds, including Puffins, Gulls, Razorbills and Gannets, along with bees and plenty of colourful flora and fauna. The only structures on the island are a Martello Tower and the ruins of an eighth-century stone church.
IrelandsEye Knitwear’s Head of Design, Maria-Christina McPadden drew on the colours and textures of Ireland’s Eye for this collection of sweaters, cardigans, shorts and accessories, including hats and legwarmers. The intricate cable stitching is inspired by the Garland of Howth, a holy manuscript said to be created on The Island. The starting point of this collection refers to Victorian times, when women were often medically advised to wear warm, gentle clothes to protect them from exposure and illness (think of the deep, square-cut chests and heavily corseted waists of the time).