Dig the new breed: Ali Malek, designer

Ali Malek is one of the hottest young designers in Ireland. His Agus label is now in its third season, and the word on his offbeat genius continues to grow. Ireland hasn't been home to many designers who have made an international impact – but if the Malek star continues to ascend, and the right kind of influential friends continue to support and nurture him, then we might be witnessing the beginning of something really exciting.

His Winter collection was inspired by the humble cockroach. It might seem like an unlikely launching pad, until you think about the sleek intensity of the creature. The collection is primarily black, offset by hats in pink and canary yellow. Texture is important. And there is strength too in the attention to detail. "There must be a little twist to hold your attention," Ali says, " The objective is to go beyond the moment, to make an emotional connection."

Asked about the source of his inspiration, Malek will talk about architecture, photography, nature, artists and individuals. The intention is to blend elements of the traditional with the modern – to achieve an urban feel that pays homage to rural roots. It is to be Irish - but most definitely international.

It is out of these tensions that Malek derives the energy that is evident in his work. Already available in Seven and Bond boutiques in New York, Concrete in London and Smock and Platform in Dublin, these are clothes worth going some distance to check out. The question now is, can Ali go all the way?