I am a Fashion Designer and Tailor and offer an exclusive Ladies fashion service from my studio in South Dublin & Mayo. Our exclusive Made to Measure Collection offers our clients a wide selection of styles and silhouettes from which to choose. At the initial consultation, we identify the style from the collection that best suits the client’s figure and style preferences. Once we have identified this, changes to the fit and lengths are noted, and we then we take measurements. We can also make style modifications to the existing styles from the collection, should the customer request this.
Arrangements are made, at a later stage, for one or two subsequent fittings before the outfit is completed. We arrange for the final fitting closer to the date of collection, as we have learned from experience, that clients, most especially brides, often lose weight before their big day.
We specialise in tailored and custom made Mother Of The Bride Dresses, Evening Dresses, and Wedding Dresses
We have also introduced an online Ready to Wear Collection which is available online, having started with a few key pieces from separates to dresses, cape coats, and accessories. We are initially making these available in sizes 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 and expect to be introducing additional staple fashion items as we go along.
Among our styles we have wool A-line dresses with sweeping over cape detail in an easy fit. This dress carries very easily from day to evening, a court shoe in the evening or a pair of mid-calf length skinny boots during the day; pull on faux fur cuffs in colder seasons. Then there is the 1920’s flapper dress, which states relaxed glamour, styled with the modern woman in mind. We have designed our own multi-coloured silk prints which adds interest to this collection. These prints are introduced here in contrasting our exaggerated bell-shaped sleeves, raised necklines and shoulder bow detail. We feel that introducing print in this way makes the garments more commercial and adds uniqueness.
Both dresses and tops have also optional luxury faux fur cuffs, to carry these items across many seasons and looks. A detail which also features strongly in our dresses and tops are double layered hems and asymmetrical hemlines.
“Tailor-made occasion wear dresses that epitomise bespoke elegance. Meticulously crafted by renowned Irish fashion designer Maire Forkin, her visionary touch transforms fabric into personalised sartorial masterpieces for unforgettable moments.” The Irish Times
For over three decades, we have specialised in luxury made-to-measure occasion wear, catering mainly to clients across Ireland and the UK.
Many women find it challenging to fit into standard clothing due to unique body shapes and sizes. Standard clothing often does not accommodate variations such as larger busts, broader shoulders, or different limb lengths. Likewise, few women perfectly fit standard body shapes like hourglass, pear, or apple, making it difficult to find well-cut, quality garments.
At Maire Forkin, we emphasise shape and structure, offering well-tailored designer outfits with exceptional fits. Our expertise lies in creating fashion designs that accentuate our clients’ figures, whether emphasising slimness, height, or curves. Our contemporary chic designs are investment pieces, offering versatility and exclusivity.
We pride ourselves on delivering a high-end, professional service from the initial consultation and fittings to the final outfit. Each client enjoys personalised fittings and expert customisation, choosing designs from our collections or collaborating on a brand-new look. We assist in selecting the perfect fabric and colour, take precise measurements, and arrange one or two subsequent fittings before completing the outfit.
Final fittings are scheduled close to the collection date, as we understand clients may lose weight before their special occasions. Our clients include mothers of the bride and groom, mature brides, and ladies looking for bespoke designer dresses.
Our fashion collections range from two-piece designer tops and skirts, dresses with matching capes or coats, to ladies’ pantsuits. We also create designer wedding dresses for mature brides, featuring modern 3-D origami shapes that are both classical and trendy, capturing a sense of opulence.
To arrange a consultation or view our collection, call us directly at 086 1721563.
It takes approximately six to eight weeks for an outfit to be completed, although this may vary. Our collection is available for viewing by appointment at our studio in South Dublin.
Maire’s Designer collection is available exclusively from her showroom in South Dublin & in Mayo, providing both contemporary and vintage styles. Clients can choose from the collection, or they may like to have a completely new design created for them.
VIEW MADE TO MEASUREMade to measure clothing are tailored to your individual measurements and style preference ensuring a perfect fit for your unique silhouette. The style and fit of an outfit can make the difference of looking ok to looking exceptional and completely comfortable and confident in your clothes.
While the typical completion time for an outfit is six to twelve weeks, although these variations may occur depending on demand and the time of the year. Book an appointment to view our collection or discuss your bespoke requirements at our studio.
Mother of the brides and grooms tend to start looking for a dress several months to a year before their wedding. Eight months is a good lead time to create your custom-made outfit.
Unlock the secrets of our designs through the heartfelt testimonials of our delighted clients, where each word paints a picture of elegance and empowerment. Let their stories inspire you to experience the transformative beauty of Maire Forkin Designs for yourself.
“Maire designed my dress for my daughters wedding in November. Maire was great to work with and really brought my vision to life. She is so creative with such attention to detail. From start to finish it was really a wonderful experience. I couldn’t recommend Maire more!” Martina Wheatley To View Our Collection Or To… Read more “Dress for my daughters wedding”
When I first met Maire I was impressed by the outfit she was wearing. When she told me it was her own creation I immediately knew Maire was the ideal person to design & make my wedding dress and what an excellent choice! I was so pleased. Maire’s passion for her work & attention to… Read more “Impressed by the outfit she was wearing”
I had a dress designed by Maire for my son’s wedding. She came highly recommended by several wedding professionals & I have to say I was not disappointed. The dress was absolutely truly amazing & I have never had so many compliments about something I was wearing before. If you want something really special &… Read more “Irish Bespoke Wedding Designer”
Having met Maire at the Wedding Fair at the RDS prior to my son’s wedding last December I was instantly drawn to her beautiful outfits. Maire is couture to her fingertips. We arranged an appointment and she understood my requirements instantly, and the result was a magnificent two piece garment which was the talk of… Read more “Couture to her fingertips!”
I was lucky enough to have Maire design my outfit for my daughter’s wedding. I knew the minute I spoke to Maire on the telephone and then when I met her that she would deign me something unique but also exactly what I wanted for Helena’s special day. She went to so much bother to… Read more “Designer Wedding Outfit”
I have been following Maire Forkin designer for a while now. Two of my close friends had excellent experiences with Maire for Mother of the Bride and Grooms respectively. I contacted Maire and she got back to me promptly. After my first visit, I was totally sure and convinced that this was the designer for… Read more “Bespoke Designer Dresses”
Many thanks to Maire Forkin for a wonderful experience in designing my mother of the bride outfit. I felt fabulous in it and it was exactly what I wanted, timeless, classic and elegant. It was everything and more I dreamed of and Maire couldn’t of been nicer to deal with, an absolute lady and I… Read more “Exquisite Guest at Wedding Dress”
“Many thanks Maire for this absolutely incredible outfit. I never felt so good in my life as when I wore it. You are an incredible designer Maire. I am so glad I choose you! Happy New Year to you and your family, also to your superb Design Team” Mary Mullen To View Our Collection Or… Read more “An Incredible Designer Outfit”
I got in touch with Maire in order to create an outfit for my daughters wedding. I was looking for something not typical “Mother of the Bride” and I certainly got it. This was my first experience of a made to measure outfit and Marie’s professionalism, knowledge and attention to detail put me at ease from… Read more “Mother of the Bride Outfit for our wedding:”
“It was an absolute pleasure to meet Maire and to have the lovely experience of having a special outfit designed and made for my daughter’s wedding. From first meeting, to measurements, fittings and final collection, Maire is a pleasure to work with. Her attention to detail and knowledge of ‘what works and suits’ her clients… Read more “Why not have your special outfit designed?”
“I first became aware of Maire Forkin designer when I saw her on TV am. I was struck by her lovely natural personality and by her beautifully designed outfits. Then, a little later on, my daughter became engaged and I began the long journey towards finding my outfit. I had no luck and then I… Read more “Designer Mother of the Bride Outfit Dublin”
“Getting married in New York was perfect! There were only going to be four of us at the day. But I still wanted my dress to be special without being the typical frothy. At 51 years of age I had to get it right! I had seen Maire’s Facebook page just by chance. I was… Read more “Classic Style Wedding Dress”
“Hi Maire, Just to say a huge thank you for my outfit which I wore to Royal Ascot last week. I really felt good, as I did with the outfit you designed for my son’s wedding last January. Both were just perfect! You and your staff are fantastic. Many thanks to all Monica” Monica Clarke… Read more “Dress for Royal Ascot”
“I absolutely loved working with Marie who designed my wedding outfit for my daughters wedding. I had a general idea of what I wanted, and Marie worked with me to create something even more beautiful than I had imagined. The design was of very high quality both light and comfortable which was important to me… Read more “Wedding Outfit by Dublin Designer”
“I am delighted with your creation which has been very much admired, but you have the talent! My dress was much admired by all of the family as well as several American tourists staying at the K Club. It must fulfilling for you to have this gift of design. And a dedicated team which you… Read more “Dr Hilary: Dress For Family Wedding”
“My Mother of the bride dress was a masterpiece. It was stunning on the day, and I received many many compliments on it along with several requests for your name. I have given to anyone who wanted it!! (Expect referrals!!) I attached photo here of the family on the day as I wanted you to… Read more “Margaret Fitzpatrick Mother Outfit for Family Wedding”
“I want to thank you Maire for the fabulous Mother of the Bride outfit that you designed for me. I felt like a million dollars wearing it at the wedding. All our guests admired it….and I was only too willing to tell them who and where they could find you. It was an excellent service… Read more “Lorraine O’Brien Wedding Outfit”
“Maire, just to let you know that your Mother of the Groom outfit was a triumph!.. Your ears should have been burning with so many people singing it’s praises. Two lovely girls asked me if they could take a photo to show there mums as they were are getting married next week. We had just… Read more “Carmel Breatnach, Mother of the Groom”
Emear Quinn looking very elegant here in an evening dress designed for her by Maire. Emear performs here at Royal Albert Hall in London. This event took place during President Higgins’s State Visit to Britain. Emear at the Royal Albert Hall The deep blue silk full length evening dress was designed and tailored to suit her figure… Read more “Emear Quinn Performs At the Royal Opera House”
Special Occasion Outfit “I have recommended Maire to several friends who saw my outfits at my daughter’s wedding. After the experience, I will be contacting Maire again without hesitation. I am extremely pleased with the finished outfit. I was looking for a very stylish but also age appropriate outfit. After I first appointment, I was surprised… Read more “Special Occasion Outfit”
“I arrived in Maire’s studio with pictures from a magazine and a clear visualisation of the style of the wedding dress that I desired. Instantly Maire understood my vision and from that first meeting, and throughout the entire process, I always felt that she deeply respected my design and never tried to influence me in… Read more “Wedding Dress”
“Maire designed my Wedding dress and headpiece for my special day. It was exactly as I had hoped for and fitted me perfectly, and I felt absolutely wonderful wearing it” Catherine Higgings To View Our Wedding Dresses Or To Book A… Read more “Wedding Dress”
“I was advised to visit Maire by a work colleague, whose friend had had an outfit made by her for a daughter’s wedding. Apparently, she was really delighted with the result. I had been looking for an outfit for the wedding myself for some time. I was hoping to get something special and most especially,… Read more “Mother of the Bride”
“I was referred to Maire by a friend of mine who had an outfit made by her a number of months earlier. Maire spent time with me discussing what would suit me and choosing the fabric and style. I was delighted from the first time I met Maire. She was very understanding and pleasant, but… Read more “Guest at Wedding”
“I just wanted to say a huge thank you Maire for the fabulous outfit you made for me for my daughters special day last year. You were a pleasure to work with. I couldn’t have been happier with my outfit from start to finish, the fabric, the cut, the colour, amazing. When I first started shopping… Read more “Mother of the Bride”
“I came to Maire Forkin with limited vision as to what I wanted as Mother of the Groom, but I did not want a dress. She had my style sussed in minutes and today I am the proud owner wool crepe trouser two-piece. Elegant and dashing in french navy and cream. In all it was… Read more “Mother of the Groom”
“I came across Marie in the Irish Times Magazine. We collaborated on a bespoke outfit for my daughter’s wedding. Marie understood my vision and added the extra touches to achieve such stunning elegance. Beautiful silk fabric, exquisite designs and eye catching colour, completed what I can only describe as a masterpiece. I will definitely revisit… Read more “Mother of the Bride”
“I absolutely love the outfit you made for me and I got loads of compliments on the day. I really appreciated your expertise and attention to detail and I would have no hesitation in recommending you to anyone who wants a beautiful bespoke outfit for a special occasion”. Gretta King To View Our Collection or… Read more “Mother of the Bride”
“Working with Maire was an absolute pleasure. She understood completely what I needed for my wedding dress and her design was absolutely magical” Susan McGarrity To View Our Collections Or To Book A… Read more “Susan McGarrity (Bride)”
“Images of my beautiful outfit designed for me by Maire Forkin. It fitted me perfectly, and was much admired on the day”. Maire was very understanding and pleasant. Quickly into our initial consultation she could tell me what best flattered my figure and style. I was really delighted I had met her, and the whole… Read more “Mother of The Bride Outfit”
“Maire created a beautiful outfit for my daughter’s wedding in December 2016. Throughout the design process, she listened to my ideas and gave me exactly what I wanted. I was completely at ease and never felt rushed during my appointments. The fit, cut and quality of the outfit was outstanding. I felt very confident and glamorous… Read more “Mother of The Bride Outfit”
“Our wedding went great and my dress was beautiful. I was absolutely thrilled with my wedding dress by Wedding Dress, and was so comfortable and happy in it. My mother looked fantastic and was also delighted with her dress. Thanks again for all your help with both our dresses. It was a pleasure to have my wedding… Read more “Wedding Dress Niamh Bradley”
Mairead Ryan looking stunning on her wedding day in this wedding dress we designed for her. It is fishtail dress with a deep back cowl detail. Wedding dress uniquely designed for you This design flatters her silhouette so eloquently. To book your… Read more “Mairead Ryan Wedding Dress”
Ann was very pleased with her outfit which we designed and made for her. It was made for her for an evening reception at Buckingham Palace in December 2017. Dresses for a royal occasion need to follow a certain dress code. The outfit needs to both elegant and chic and appropriate for this special occasion. Dress Code… Read more “Dresses for an Evening Reception at Buckingham Palace”
“I had ventured to Dublin and beyond to search for a wedding outfit for my daughters wedding. My journey finally led me to Maire. I can only describe my experience as truly amazing, and the result was everything I could have hoped for! This lady is not only an accomplished designer but she managed to… Read more “Sandy Cox Wedding Outfit”
“I want to say go raibh míle maith agat to Maire for the beautiful outfit she created for me for my son’s wedding. We were very impressed with the professionalism of her service. We attended only twice, as Máire stated at the outset. On the first occasion she took measurements for the design. I then… Read more “Mother of the Bride”
