Dublin’s fashion scene just had a moment — and it didn’t happen on a catwalk in Paris or London. On June 4th, the WabiSabi collective staged Spotted Runway at The Fumbally, a community-runway event where “normal people” — not professional models — walked in outfits pulled straight from their own wardrobes. If you’ve been wondering what’s next for Dublin street style, this is your answer: personal expression, bold layering, and a growing appetite for custom, wearable fashion.
What Spotted Runway Means for Dublin Shirt Culture
Founded by Goodness Mphelo, WabiSabi started as a street-style social account documenting how Dubliners actually dress. What began as a few interviews outside coffee shops has grown into a movement. Spotted Runway took that energy indoors, featuring 12 Dubliners presenting two looks each — no brand sponsors, no PR styling, just real people owning their style. For anyone in the custom apparel space, this is pure gold. It signals a city ready to wear its personality on its sleeve — literally.
And that’s where the custom shirt comes in. Dubliners are increasingly moving away from fast-fashion logos and toward pieces that mean something. Boxy cuts, vintage-inspired graphics, Irish-language text, and nods to local culture are all rising trends we’re seeing in custom tee orders. The Spotted Runway ethos — celebrate what you already have, wear what feels like you — aligns perfectly with the custom apparel movement.
Shirt Trends to Watch in Dublin
Based on what’s hitting the streets and showing up in WabiSabi’s feeds, here’s what’s trending for Dublin shirts right now:
- Oversized & relaxed fits — The structured look is out. Dubliners are gravitating toward boxy, drop-shoulder tees that pair easily with wide-leg trousers or track pants.
- Local pride graphics — Dublin landmarks, GAA references, and Irish-language phrases are having a real moment on custom tees.
- Muted earth tones & Irish linen — Think oatmeal, slate grey, olive — colours that nod to the Irish landscape and pair with anything.
- Vintage-wash finishes — Garment-dyed and stone-washed tees that feel lived-in from the first wear.
- Community-branded merch — From local coffee roasters to creative collectives like Forever Worldwide Studios, Dublin brands are investing in quality tees that people actually want to be seen in.
Why Custom Shirts Fit the Dublin Vibe
Mphelo put it perfectly: “Once you see somebody doing something, someone being free in their own expression of fashion, it inspires others to be more expressive.” That’s the energy driving Dublin’s shirt scene right now. A custom tee isn’t just a piece of clothing — it’s a statement that you belong to something, whether that’s a local brand, a music collective, a sports club, or just your own aesthetic.
The message for anyone in Dublin looking to refresh their wardrobe? Skip the chain stores. Find a local print shop (or hit up our custom design studio), and make something that feels like you. Dublin’s finally ready to own its style — and your next shirt should too.