Naas designer is redefining sustainable fashion
Naas designer Siobhán McCarthy is redefining sustainable fashion with elegant, ethically crafted handbags through her growing brand Póchette.
In a competitive fashion landscape increasingly shaped by fast trends and mass production, Siobhán McCarthy is quietly building something more enduring - a brand rooted in craftsmanship, sustainability and thoughtful design.
A native of Naas, McCarthy is the founder of Póchette, a label that is quickly gaining recognition for its refined aesthetic and ethical approach to production.
Siobhán is proud of her Co Kildare roots: “I grew up in Naas, and I remember reading and even appearing in the Leinster Leader as a child. My family still live there, so I’m always popping down.”
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Póchette launched in 2024 with a debut collection that blends French-inspired elegance with contemporary Irish sensibility.
The name itself is a blend of Póca - the Irish for pocket and Pochette - the French for pouch. The name hints at the brand’s refined, minimalist ethos.
Each handbag is designed in Ireland and manufactured in Portugal, using high-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship to ensure longevity.
What sets McCarthy apart is her commitment to sustainability, not as a trend, but as a core principle.
Each bag is crafted using responsibly sourced leather, while packaging is recyclable and biodegradable. Even the finer details reflect this ethos, with durable linings and carefully considered finishes designed to extend the life of each piece.
The debut collection features a range of adjustable handbags, allowing wearers to customise both size and style. This adaptability speaks to McCarthy’s understanding of modern consumers, who increasingly seek versatility in their wardrobes. “We wanted to create pieces that feel elegant but are also effortless to wear,” she explains. Soft neutral tones, including Powder Pink and Olive Green, dominate the palette, offering timeless appeal.
Retailing from €195, the bags are positioned within the premium market, yet McCarthy is keen to emphasise value. “With the quality, design and craftsmanship involved, it’s about investing in something that lasts,” she says.
Beyond aesthetics, McCarthy is also focused on building a brand with purpose. Production processes are designed to support artisans and ensure fair practices, while the company is exploring partnerships that promote innovation and sustainability within the Irish fashion industry.
Looking ahead, Póchette shows no signs of slowing down. New designs are already in development, with McCarthy continuing to push boundaries while staying true to her original vision - creating pieces that are not only beautiful, but meaningful.
In an era of disposable fashion, Siobhán McCarthy is proving that thoughtful design and ethical values can go hand in hand - and that Irish fashion has a powerful, sustainable future.