In Pictures: Triona celebrates 40 years of Donegal craftsmanship and heritage

Triona is celebrating 40 years of the finest craftsmanship in Donegal. Read on to see more of Triona's story, and click on the arrows for a selection of photos of the people and places that have played a part and continue to shape Triona's development over the years, as well as some of the fantastic items from the latest collection:

This year marks a remarkable milestone for Triona, the luxury Irish fashion brand that has become synonymous with quality, craftsmanship, and tradition.

Founded by the Mulhern family in the heart of Donegal, Triona celebrates 40 years of weaving heritage and artistry into timeless pieces.

The Mulhern family's journey began in Ardara, a town rich in the tradition of handwoven textiles. It was here, in 1984, that Dennis Mulhern and his family opened their first store in a market house known as ‘The Mart.’

Built in 1912, The Mart was originally used for the inspection, storage, and sale of tweed. Although the tweed industry in Ardara saw a resurgence during the two world wars, it later declined, transitioning to a smaller cottage-industry basis and, more recently, evolving into a popular tourist attraction.

Today, several domestic vernacular buildings, including original weavers’ cottages, echo Ardara’s early associations with the tweed industry.

Over the past four decades, Triona has expanded, yet the heart of the brand remains rooted in tradition. From the rugged landscapes of Ardara to the bustling heart of Donegal Town, where Triona's flagship store has proudly stood on The Diamond for almost ten years, the company continues to bring the finest in Irish fashion to a global audience.

These stores not only offer beautifully handcrafted garments but also provide visitors a window into the history and craftsmanship that define Donegal’s textile industry.

The past year has been particularly exciting as Triona’s pieces are now showcased in New York City’s prestigious Flying Solo and mark their brand debut in Canada.

Despite this international expansion, Triona remains unwavering in its commitment to its core values and family-centred approach.

In recent years, Triona has gained notable acclaim, particularly when its Faye Trench Coat was spotted on Sarah Jessica Parker in her hit HBO show And Just Like That. This exposure has propelled the brand into the spotlight, attracting the attention of fashion lovers far and wide.

Additionally, Triona’s pieces have garnered popularity among Irish stars like Amy Huberman, Maura Derrane, Muireann O'Connell, and many more, further solidifying its place in contemporary Irish fashion.

Dennis Mulhern, along with his family, has guided Triona with a clear vision: to preserve the ancient art of handweaving while innovating with modern designs and materials.

Today, the brand is recognised for its finely tailored tweeds, luxurious cashmere blends, and sustainable Merino wool pieces. Each garment is a tribute to the landscapes that inspire the brand—rugged cliffs, sweeping hills, and the ever-changing skies of Donegal.

The stores in Ardara and Donegal Town have become landmarks in their own right. Visitors to the Ardara store can explore the heritage of The Mart, now a home to exquisite handwoven textiles.

In Donegal Town, the flagship store on The Diamond draws both locals and tourists with its blend of heritage and contemporary style, offering a curated collection that reflects the brand’s evolution over the past 40 years.

As Triona enters its fifth decade, the Mulhern family remains committed to honouring the past while looking to the future. Whether you visit the old market house in Ardara or the bustling Donegal Town store, you are stepping into a story woven through generations—one that continues to thrive thanks to the passion and dedication of the Mulhern family and the skilled artisans who have made Triona a household name in Irish fashion.

Here’s to 40 years of Triona, and to many more chapters in their story of Irish heritage, craft, and style.