Series 3

Enda Walsh

Playwright Enda Walsh, a writer whose work is unmistakable—intense, lyrical, and always deeply human. His plays have shaped modern theatre and film. From Disco Pigs to Lazarus to Small Things Like These, which won the top award for Best Film at the recent IFTA awards (Irish Film and Television Academy) where Enda additionally won best screenplay. 

But today, we’re stepping away from the work and into his personal world, through the clothes that have stayed with him over the years. In this episode, Enda takes us through the garments that have shaped his life, each carrying its own story of memory, creativity, and personal meaning.  

His choices invite us to reflect on the role clothing plays in how we remember, how we move through the world, and how we tell our own stories. 

With stories interweaving Dublin-based Department Store Arnott’s and its renowned Bargain Basement, to Irish singer-songwriter Enya, and Birkenstock sandals with Protestant socks, speaking with Enda was maybe a little like his work, charming, lyrical, and always deeply human. 

We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did.

​

Enda Walsh Episode Link​

​Post Analysis Episode Link

Leah Hayden Cassidy 

Leah Hayden Cassidy, a Dublin-born, East London-based barber whose talent and creativity have made her a standout name in the industry, and one of three chosen grooming ambassadors to the luxury French brand, Dior. 

But today, we’re stepping away from the barber’s chair and diving into the garments that hold meaning beyond style—pieces tied to family, heritage, and personal evolution. From sentimental keepsakes to everyday essentials that have become part of her identity, Hayden’s selections reveal a deep connection to her roots, her journey, and the moments that have shaped her. 

With her signature warmth, it is easy to see how Hayden has built such a loyal fanbase, and we came out of the chat promising to visit her studio Croi, when we are next in London. It’s a conversation filled with nostalgia, laughter, and a celebration of the little things that make us who we are.  

Join us, as we head down memory lane with Leah Hayden Cassidy, through the medium of clothes and the stories they tell.   

This is the Desert Island Dress podcast.  

​​

Leah Hayden Cassidy Episode Link​

​Post Analysis Episode Link

Nuala McGovern

Nuala McGovern – Dublin-born journalist and broadcaster, and now a familiar voice as a host on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour. 

Nuala’s career has taken her across the world, from Italy to the United States, from frontline reporting to the heart of one of the UK’s most iconic radio programmes. And while she might not consider herself a dedicated fashion enthusiast, her life has been surrounded by people who are – from her stylish mother, who still picks out clothes for her at 90, to the fashion designers she’s lived with along the way.  

Clothes, for Nuala, are less about trends and more about the stories they hold – the nostalgia of childhood outfits, vintage treasures of her time in Milan, to the practical, hard-wearing staples that have accompanied her on assignments from Westminster to war zones. 

Join us, as we head down memory lane with Nuala McGovern, through the medium of clothes and the stories they tell.   

This is the Desert Island Dress podcast.  

​

Nuala McGovern Episode Link​

​Post Analysis Episode Link

Rich Gilligan

Irish photographer Rich Gilligan, whose work captures movement, individuality, and those fleeting in-between moments that make up a life. Having created work for brands such as Adidas Originals and WIP Carhart to photographing the likes of Timothée Chalamet, Saoirse Ronan and Cillian Murphy, what was it like for Rich to step behind the lens himself or, in this case, the microphone? A joy. Rich took us from the early days discovering skateboarding in Dublin to a career that has taken him across the world, Rich’s journey is one of creativity, community, and carving out a space that feels like home. 

In this episode, we talk about identity, nostalgia, and the way clothes shape who we are—whether through the rebellion of youth, the rituals of growing up, or the sentimental threads that connect us to a time, a place, or a person. Rich brings us stories of discovery, personal style, and the quiet power of a perfectly worn-in piece of clothing.  

Themes which arise also in Rich’s new exhibition The First Draft at Draíocht, Blanchardstown running until May 3rd, 2025. 

So, settle in as we unpack the wardrobe of a life well-lived.

This is Desert Island Dress.

​

Rich Gilligan Episode Link​

​Post Analysis Episode Link

Nikki Creedon

A true curator of fashion, Nikki Creedon, the visionary behind Havana boutique in Dublin. 

For over three decades, Havana has been a destination for those who seek not just clothing, but artistry—pieces that speak to craftsmanship, individuality, and timeless style. In this conversation, Nikki reflects on the moments that shaped her journey—from the early sparks of inspiration to the evolution of her boutique and the deep connections she has fostered with designers and customers alike. 

Through her chosen pieces, we explore a life devoted to fashion—one filled with serendipitous encounters, treasured memories, and an unwavering passion for beautiful things. Whether it's a garment steeped in heritage, a symbol of personal resilience, or a piece that simply brings unfiltered joy, Nikki’s selections remind us that fashion isn’t just about what we wear—it’s about the experiences, emotions, and identities we carry with us.  

So, join us as we head down memory lane with Nikki Creedon, through the medium of clothes and the stories they tell.

This is the Desert Island Dress podcast.  

​

Nikki Creedon Episode Link​

​Post Analysis Episode Link

Mandy Johnston

Journalist, broadcaster, and communications expert Mandy Johnston, brings her sharp wit and deep appreciation for style to the conversation. 

With a career that has taken her from political press rooms to the airwaves, Mandy understands the power of presentation—how clothes can communicate, empower, and evolve with us over time.  

In this episode, we talk about the thrill of a significant fashion purchase, the sentimental weight of well-worn favourites, and how dressing with intention can be both a personal and professional tool. We also explore the blurred boundaries between workwear and leisurewear, the impact of fashion on confidence, and why some pieces stay with us for a lifetime.  

So settle in as we step into Mandy’s world—one where clothes are more than just what we wear; they’re a part of who we are.  

Leon Diop

We’re joined by Leon Diop—activist, community leader, and founder of Black & Irish, an organisation dedicated to celebrating and amplifying the voices of Black and mixed-race Irish people. Through storytelling, education, and advocacy, Black & Irish has become a vital platform for fostering inclusion, challenging misconceptions, and shaping conversations about identity in modern Ireland. 

In this episode, Leon reflects on the moments that have shaped him—his journey navigating identity, self-expression, and resilience. We talk about the importance of belonging, the impact of representation, and, unexpectedly, how Mariah Carey has a surprising connection to his work! 

It’s a conversation full of warmth, insight, and inspiration—so settle in as we explore the wardrobe and the world of Leon Diop. 

This is the Desert Island Dress podcast.