Sharon Wauchob-is the latest designer from Ireland to receive international acclaim. Born in Co Tyrone in 1971, Wauchob graduated from Central St Martins, London, in 1993. On graduation, she worked with designer Koji Tatsuno for four years, and in 1997 moved to Paris, working with Louis Vuitton on textile development and accessories.

Wauchob has a special interest in exploring the possibilities of unusual material and fabrics. Her clothes are characterised by much wrapping, folding, and gathering, as well as elaborate pleating and stitching techniques. Taking fabric out of context, features of her clothing include experimentation with color and use of light and tone.

In 1998, Wauchob launched her own label and had her first show. Working from Tyrone and Paris, her brand is receiving attention from international fashion editors and buyers.