economy
‘Linen is meaningful in Belfast’: how an old industry is weaving the city a new identity
Fabric that once defined Northern Ireland’s capital is at heart of its stylish revival, embraced by designers, royalty and heritage farmers alike
TL;DR
- Belfast is undergoing a renewal through the resurgence of its linen industry.
- The linen industry, once the backbone of Belfast's economy, is returning as a symbol of identity.
- Designer Amy Anderson of Kindred of Ireland uses linen for avant-garde pieces, drawing on her family's connection to the industry.
- Reviving the linen industry involves efforts in regenerative flax farming by individuals like Charlie Mallon.
- The revival has garnered support from figures such as designer Sarah Burton and the Prince and Princess of Wales.
- The Ulster Museum's 'Ashes to Fashion' exhibition highlights Belfast's fashion heritage and its connection to the linen industry.
- Northern Irish businesses like Kindred of Ireland benefit from UK market access and certain EU single-market rules under the Windsor framework.