Tim Ryan

If you’ve been in Dublin’s trendy boutique Platform recently, then you need no introduction to Tim Ryan’s work. His eclectic collection of knitted dresses and seductive scarves leave more then just a visual impact.

Originally from Co. Tipperary, Tim’s home life saw he grew up surrounded by wool and knitting machines. After completing his first year of Art and Design in the College of Limerick, Tim went on to study sculpture for a brief period. It was during this time that he began to make the colourful creations that would become his trademark.

“When I was in college I was always making these mad, big colourful jumpers from scraps that I would pick up, or pieces I’d find in charity shops,” he says. “I never got to keep them as people kept wanting to buy them – and me being a poor student, I couldn’t resist.’

Tim current collection of evening ware is vibrant in colour, ruffed up and sexy – but in a refined and tasteful way. His creations truly come alive on the body, where the pieces have been constructed and plaited together to mould and shape the figure in a sexy and seductive style.

“I think a beautiful piece is more important then having a seasonal gimmick,” he says. “I get more enjoyment out of creating something that is special, and that someone will have in their wardrobe and feel special about, like it is a prized thing.”

It is the emotional essence associated with his work that attracts people to Tim’s distinctive creations.

“At the moment it is very important for me to develop my private client base,” he says. “You know what the customer feels about their body, whether it be that they hate their bum or arms, and you work with that and use what they have to their advantage, to create something they love. I am trying to make it personal: that’s why it’s important that my creations are once-offs.

“My aim is to help people look on the outside how they feel on the inside.”