May 30, 2023

Louis Copeland and Sons' 90-Year Journey

A Legacy of Style

Louis Copeland and Sons are proud to be celebrating 90 years in business. As part of our momentous 90th-year celebrations, we have created this blog to honour the exceptional staff members who have played a vital role in our company's success. Throughout this blog, you will encounter familiar faces from our historic locations in Dublin, Cork, and Galway. We delve into the stories of our staff, sharing insights into their experiences and journeys that led them to become integral members of our organisation . By introducing our dedicated team members, this blog provides a glimpse into their diverse backgrounds, skills, and experiences, which have significantly contributed to shaping the unique identity of our company. Join us in this celebratory tribute as we recognise and celebrate the remarkable individuals who have been instrumental in our 90 years of business excellence.

Louis Copeland Senior & Junior

Louis Sr. began his journey with his father at the first Louis Copeland and Sons store in the late 1960s. Immersed in the menswear and tailoring industry from a young age, Louis Sr. grew up in his grandfather's workshop, helping his dad by sweeping floors and running errands. His lifelong involvement in the family business has fostered a deep passion for the retail side, where he enjoys engaging with customers on the shop floor. Over the years, Louis Sr. has had the privilege of suiting many celebrities, yet he remains grateful to every customer, cherishing the relationships he has built with the men who shop in-store. Devoting seven days a week to the Capel St store, Louis Sr. ensures that he accommodates all his customers and keeps the business running smoothly.

Louis Jr., following in his father's footsteps, has been involved with the company from a young age. He fondly recalls the camaraderie and laughter shared with the team during his early days assisting at the Capel St store. Today, Louis Jr. finds great satisfaction in nurturing innovative ideas and seeing new projects come to life. He has particularly enjoyed developing the web office and the Cork store in recent times. Louis Jr. takes immense pride in being part of the company’s nurturing and inclusive culture.

Pictured outside their Capel St store, the original Louis Copeland and Sons location opened in 1933. Now located at 39-41 Capel St, the street is a vibrant, pedestrianised area with diverse shops, pubs, and restaurants. Recently, Capel St was named the 22nd coolest street in the world by Time Out, attracting even more foot traffic.

Adrian Copeland Senior & Junior

In the late 1960s, Adrian Sr. joined forces with his father and brother at the Capel St store, marking the beginning of his journey in the menswear industry. With extensive experience across every aspect of the company, Adrian Sr. has built numerous customer relationships, consistently demonstrating his unwavering commitment to serving them with his menswear expertise. Now spanning four generations, the family business continues to thrive. The Pembroke St store, opened in 1980, is managed today by both Adrian Sr. and his son, Adrian Jr.

During his school summer holidays, Adrian Jr. eagerly worked at the family business, undertaking tasks like cleaning stockrooms and dusting the shop, reflecting his dedication and attention to detail. After completing his college education, Adrian Jr. joined the Galway store, dedicating three years to its growth. Today, the Galway store flourishes under a talented management team, while Adrian Jr. works alongside his father at the Pembroke St location. He enjoys daily interactions with new customers and assisting them with their needs.

Adrian Sr. and Jr. are pictured on Pembroke St, near the Louis Copeland and Sons store on Pembroke Street Lower. Known for its attractive Georgian architecture, Pembroke Street features elegant townhouses and buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, now converted into offices, shops, restaurants, and residential properties. The street is in close proximity to notable Dublin landmarks such as Merrion Square, St. Stephen's Green, the National Museum of Ireland, and the Aviva Stadium. This prime location enhances the store’s charm and accessibility, attracting a diverse clientele.

Paddy Kearns

Paddy has been a valuable member of the Capel St store team for three years, bringing extensive experience in men's retail that began when he was just 16, starting out in our Dundrum store. His expertise lies in made-to-measure services. Interestingly, Paddy was initially a Louis Copeland and Sons customer before becoming an employee. He fondly remembers his first suit, a striking red check fabric, and his exceptional one-on-one experience as a customer has helped him excel in providing top-notch service during made-to-measure appointments. Having been in the customers' shoes, he truly understands the experience they seek.

In the accompanying picture, Paddy stands at the gate of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. Constructed in 1902 as a fermentation plant for the St. James's Gate Brewery, the building served this purpose until 1988. It was the first multi-storey steel-framed building in Ireland. In 1997, it was converted into the Guinness Storehouse, now featuring interactive exhibits on the history of beer, a bar where visitors can pour their own Guinness and have their selfie printed on top, and an Irish cuisine restaurant that incorporates Guinness in its cooking. The Gravity Bar on the seventh floor offers panoramic views of Dublin and a complimentary pint of Guinness with admission. Nearby, the Guinness Open Gate Brewery showcases small-batch beer creations. The Storehouse also houses the Guinness Archives, containing records and artifacts dating back to 1759.

Ed Lindsay

Having spent eight years at the Dundrum store, Ed, a fashion college graduate, has a deep passion for men's formal wear. Ed’s personal style leans towards the unstructured Italian aesthetic, with a particular fondness for cropped trousers and slim blazers. Despite his extensive fashion knowledge, what Ed finds most fulfilling about his role at Louis Copeland and Sons is the opportunity to work with men's formal wear, his true passion, and to connect with customers. For Ed, the fit and quality of a garment are paramount. He strives to ensure that customers not only look good but also enjoy longevity from their purchases.

In the accompanying picture, Ed is seen at St. Stephen's Green Park, a 22-acre Victorian park located at the top of Grafton Street in Dublin. The park features beautiful gardens, monuments, sculptures, a lake, and a children's playground. It's also a place to learn about Irish history, with memorials to significant people and events such as the 1916 Easter Rising and the Great Famine. During the summer, free concerts are held at the Victorian bandstand. The park also has a sensory garden for the visually impaired and celebrates Ireland's literary history with monuments to James Joyce and W.B. Yeats. The Fusilier's Arch at the park's entrance commemorates Irish soldiers who died in the Boer War, and bullet holes from the 1916 Easter Rising can still be seen on it.

Syed Abuzar

Syed joined Louis Copeland and Sons after responding to an advertisement, bringing with him extensive experience in menswear and a deep passion for the field. Based in our Galway store, Syed has been a valuable member of the team for over 15 years. He has a particular enthusiasm for merchandising, which allows him to style outfits creatively when setting up displays. Additionally, Syed takes great pleasure in helping customers find the perfect clothing for their needs, whether it's casual attire for work or everyday life, or formal attire for special occasions.

In the accompanying picture, Syed stands in front of Pálás Cinema in Galway, a cultural space and arthouse cinema with three screens. Located in a UNESCO City of Film, the building was designed by architect Tom de Paor and features 22 resin-coated windows by Irish artist Patrick Scott. Operated by Element Pictures, who also run the Light House Cinema in Dublin, Pálás offers a venue for film lovers to explore and enjoy new and classic films, as well as Irish and international independent films. The cinema is a concrete monolith occupying the garden of a reinstated 1820s merchant house, with a bar and terrace for visitors to enjoy.

St. Stephen's Green Park is a 22-acre Victorian park at the top of Grafton Street in Dublin. It features beautiful gardens, monuments, sculptures, a lake, and a playground for children. The park also provides insights into Irish history, with memorials to significant events such as the 1916 Easter Rising and the Great Famine. During the summer, free concerts are held at the Victorian bandstand. The park also has a sensory garden for the visually impaired and celebrates Ireland's literary history with monuments to James Joyce and W.B. Yeats. The Fusilier's Arch at the entrance commemorates Irish soldiers who died in the Boer War, with bullet holes from the 1916 Easter Rising still visible on it.

Emmet Dalton

Emmet has been a part of Louis Copeland and Sons Wicklow Street team since 2019. With a menswear background dating back to 2015, he joined the Wicklow Street crew after returning from Edinburgh to pursue an Acting Degree at The Lir Academy.

His passion for men's fashion, especially suiting, has always been intrinsic to him. This affection traces back to his grandfather, Leo, who embodied sharpness and donned a suit daily. Even at 91, Leo remains a steadfast inspiration for Emmet.

Despite his deep menswear and suiting interests, Emmet's ultimate career aspiration lies in acting. Graduating from The Lir Academy in August, he's already graced the Abbey Stage and made his film debut. However, his team members would attest that he's garnered more knowledge at Copeland's than in college.

In the accompanying picture, Emmet stands at the National Gallery of Dublin, Ireland's oldest public art museum established in 1854. Boasting over 16,000 artworks, including pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Monet, and Picasso, the museum offers free admission. For Emmet, the National Gallery holds special significance. During his first Lir attempt in 2014, he and his father frequented the gallery, finding solace, inspiration, and a space for reflection. Particularly drawn to the vibrant paintings of Jack B. Yeats, Emmet's personal style at Louis Copeland and his acting pursuits have been influenced by Yeats' dynamic artworks. Embracing Yeats' philosophy of engaging in the art of living, Emmet believes in the transformative power of color and expression.

Aaron Hearns

Nine years ago, at the age of 16, Aaron began his journey with Louis Copeland and Sons, fueled by a desire to gain valuable work experience. Starting at Capel Street, he swiftly secured a part-time position and has remained a dedicated team member ever since. Initially responsible for folding shirts, sweeping floors, and conducting stock checks, Aaron has steadily ascended to his current role as the E-commerce Manager.

Aaron's passion lies in delivering exceptional customer experiences. Upon transitioning from our Capel Street store to the web office, he was determined to replicate the immersive in-store atmosphere online. To achieve this, he dedicates significant effort to creating engaging content, such as product videos, to provide online customers with a comprehensive understanding of our offerings. Furthermore, he extends a personal shopping service to customers, curating outfits to emulate an in-store visit experience. Aaron's unwavering commitment shines as he endeavors to bridge the gap between online and in-store shopping, ensuring customers receive a seamless and exceptional experience.

In the accompanying picture, Aaron stands at the Ha'penny Bridge, also known as the Liffey Bridge, a famous landmark in Dublin, Ireland. Constructed in 1816, it was the first pedestrian bridge to span the River Liffey, connecting the city's north and south sides. Originally charging a toll of half a penny (a ha'penny) for crossing, the bridge has since become an iconic symbol of Dublin, renowned for its elegant design, cast iron structure, and distinctive arches. Offering picturesque views of the river and the cityscape, the Ha'penny Bridge has evolved into a cherished historical and cultural landmark, epitomizing the charm and character of Dublin.

Nigel O’Sullivan

Since the inauguration of the Louis Copeland and Sons Cork store in 2019, Nigel has served as the store manager, bringing with him extensive experience in men's fashion cultivated since his teenage years. Despite also training and qualifying as a cabinet maker, Nigel's true passion always resided in the men’s fashion industry. Consequently, at the age of 21, he returned to his roots in the rag trade, where he has since thrived. Over the years, Nigel has built a vast network of loyal customers who consistently choose Louis Copeland and Sons as their preferred shopping destination, contributing to the steady expansion of his client base.

In the accompanying picture, Nigel is seen at the Cork Opera House, originally constructed in 1855 as The Athenaeum to promote science, literature, and fine arts. It underwent various name changes, ultimately being reconstructed and renamed the Opera House after a fire in 1955. Today, it stands as a premier venue for a diverse range of performances, from concerts to comedy, drama, dance, and opera, showcasing both local and international acts.

St. Stephen's Green Park, another renowned location, is a 22-acre Victorian park situated at the top of Grafton Street in Dublin. It boasts beautiful gardens, monuments, sculptures, a lake, and a children's playground. The park serves as a focal point for learning about Irish history, featuring memorials to significant figures and events such as the 1916 Easter Rising and the Great Famine. During the summer, visitors can enjoy free concerts at the Victorian bandstand. Additionally, the park houses a sensory garden for the visually impaired and pays homage to Ireland's literary history with monuments dedicated to James Joyce and W.B. Yeats. The Fusilier's Arch at the park's entrance commemorates Irish soldiers who died in the Boer War, bearing bullet holes from the 1916 Easter Rising as a poignant reminder of the nation's past struggles.

Zoltan Kovacs

Zoltan has been an esteemed member of our Pembroke St Store team for nearly six years. Hailing from Hungary, he joined Louis Copeland and Sons after many years as a bespoke tailor. Drawn by our reputation as one of the finest tailors in Ireland, Zoltan was eager to be part of our team. His passion lies in crafting garments that offer the perfect fit for his customers. With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for experimenting with various fabrics, Zoltan's meticulous approach ensures exceptional results for his clientele.

In the accompanying picture, Zoltan is captured at Merrion Square, a sprawling and elegant Georgian square nestled in Dublin city. Adorned with a public park, the square retains much of its Georgian charm, with three sides lined by impressive Georgian Houses. The central park boasts colorful flower and shrub beds, along with a striking statue of Oscar Wilde reclining on a rock. Sundays see artists displaying their works for sale along the railings surrounding the park. Many of the houses within Merrion Square boast plaques commemorating the rich and famous who once called them home, including luminaries such as Daniel O'Connell and W.B. Yeats.

Geoff Coughlan

For 13 years, Geoff has been an indispensable part of our Wicklow St Store team. With a rich family history in the fashion industry and a profound understanding of men's fashion, Geoff's expertise has been deeply ingrained in his life. Joining Louis Copeland and Sons in 2010, Geoff has forged a close bond with the Copeland family, spanning almost four decades.

Geoff plays an integral role at Louis Copeland & Sons, relishing every aspect of the business. He takes pride in the knowledge that his job satisfaction positively impacts customer relationships and loyalty. Geoff's passion for fashion ignited at a young age and has only intensified over time, driving his dedication to the industry.

Leinster House, also known as the House of the Oireachtas, serves as the seat of the Irish parliament, housing both the Dáil Éireann (lower house) and the Seanad Éireann (upper house). Originally commissioned as Kildare House in 1745 by James Fitzgerald, the Earl of Kildare, it was later renamed Leinster House after he became the Duke of Leinster. Acquired by the Royal Dublin Society in 1815, it became the seat of the Irish parliament after the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922.

In the accompanying image, Geoff stands in front of Leinster House, adopting a posture akin to news presenters on RTE. He shares the latest news about Louis Copeland and Sons, announcing the arrival of the best-ever collection for the upcoming season. With his authoritative demeanor and infectious enthusiasm, Geoff captivates attention, spreading excitement about the new offerings from Louis Copeland and Sons.

James Kelly

James, currently stationed at our Wicklow St store, was introduced to the world of men's fashion at the tender age of ten, accompanying his parents to their stores. Immersed in the fashion industry from a young age, it became second nature to him over time. After spending three years living and working in London, James returned to Ireland and joined the Louis Copeland and Sons team. His passion lies in assisting customers to look and feel their best, particularly on special occasions like weddings.

In the accompanying photo, James stands beside the Phil Lynott statue on Harry St in Dublin. Phil Lynott, the iconic lead singer of Thin Lizzy, is commemorated here. The statue is located in an area closely associated with Phil Lynott, who frequented the Grafton Street area, engaging with the city's flower sellers and dancing along the street. This spot holds significance for rock and music enthusiasts, drawing fans from far and wide to capture a selfie and pay homage to one of Dublin's greatest music icons. Standing beside the statue, James embodies the spirit of creativity and individuality that resonates with Phil Lynott's legacy.

David Farrell

For the past eight years, David has served as the manager of the Louis Copeland and Sons Dundrum store, located in the bustling Dundrum Town Centre since its establishment in 2005. With a remarkable three decades of experience in menswear, David is a treasure trove of knowledge in the realm of men's fashion. However, what truly ignites his passion at Louis Copeland and Sons is the opportunity to cultivate genuine connections with customers. He takes immense joy in nurturing these relationships, guiding individuals to dress their best for the significant events scattered throughout the year. With his innate ability to relate to customers from all walks of life, David has finely honed his craft in delivering unparalleled customer service and satisfaction over the years.

In the accompanying photo, Dave stands beside the Wolfe Tone Statue in St. Stephen's Green Park, a poignant memorial to Wolfe Tone, a trailblazer of Irish republicanism. Crafted by Edward Delaney in the 1960s, the statue depicts Tone, who sought refuge in America and Paris to conspire against British rule but was ultimately apprehended, incarcerated, and perished in 1798. Despite facing destruction during the Troubles in 1971, the statue was meticulously reconstructed and reinstated to its rightful place, serving as a powerful symbol of Ireland's enduring spirit and struggle for independence. Standing beside this historic monument, Dave embodies a legacy of resilience and unwavering commitment, mirroring the values echoed in Louis Copeland and Sons' dedication to excellence and tradition.

Robert Fahy

For 16 years, Robert has been an esteemed member of the Louis Copeland and Sons team, currently stationed at our Galway store. His journey in the menswear industry commenced right after completing school, marking the beginning of a longstanding career path. Approached with an opportunity to join Louis Copeland and Sons, Robert eagerly accepted, setting the stage for years of dedication and passion.

During a transformative buying trip abroad with the team, Robert's interest in shirts was ignited, sparking a profound fascination with made-to-measure shirt appointments. He has since cultivated a deep-seated passion for ensuring every shirt boasts the perfect fit, a testament to his unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and quality craftsmanship.

In the accompanying image, Robert is captured amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Eyre Square in Galway during the Cúirt International Festival of Literature. Renowned as one of Europe's oldest book festivals, Cúirt unites writers and readers to exchange new perspectives and celebrate the written word in all its forms. Beyond the festival's annual event, its year-round engagement program fosters an ongoing space for dialogue, debate, and contemplation among literature enthusiasts. Standing amidst this literary celebration, Robert embodies the spirit of curiosity, learning, and community, values that resonate deeply with Louis Copeland and Sons' dedication to excellence and customer engagement.

Dave Cassey

Dave has dedicated six years of his career to Louis Copeland and Sons, serving at the Wicklow St store. With a formidable two decades of experience in the menswear industry under his belt, Dave possesses a wealth of knowledge that enriches his role. However, what truly captivates Dave about his job is the exceptional team he collaborates with. He regards it as the finest team he's had the privilege to be a part of. Moreover, Dave derives immense satisfaction from the diverse array of top-quality menswear brands offered at Louis Copeland and Sons stores. His genuine enthusiasm for learning about, handling, and ultimately presenting these garments is palpable.

Trinity College stands as a beacon of academic excellence and historical significance in Dublin, Ireland. Established in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, it continues to uphold its esteemed reputation, offering undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs across various disciplines. Nestled in the city center, the campus boasts a tapestry of historic buildings, verdant gardens, and enriching museums. Among its treasures, the Book of Kells, a 9th-century manuscript containing the Four Gospels of the New Testament, stands as a testament to the college's enduring legacy and cultural heritage. In the accompanying image, Dave stands amidst the hallowed grounds of Trinity College, embodying a spirit of scholarship, tradition, and reverence for knowledge—a fitting reflection of Louis Copeland and Sons' commitment to excellence and heritage.

Gary Molloy

In 1996, Gary embarked on his journey with Louis Copeland and Sons upon the completion of his retail marketing degree. Starting with a work placement opportunity, little did he anticipate that this would mark the inception of an extraordinary 27-year career. Today, Gary proudly assumes the role of store manager at our Galway location.

Gary's ardor for men's fashion has always shone brightly. Over the years, he has cultivated a profound interest in the industry, with a particular fondness for the buying process. The dynamic rhythm of staying abreast of changing seasons, curating garment collections, and strategizing for the future has enraptured his soul. Gary derives immense satisfaction from uncovering trends that resonate with our cherished customers, ensuring they receive fashion selections they will truly cherish.

Nestled in the heart of Galway, the Galway Cathedral stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and spiritual devotion. Constructed in the mid-20th century between 1958 and 1965, the cathedral boasts a captivating blend of Renaissance and Gothic styles. Renowned for its intricate stained-glass windows, mesmerizing mosaics, sculptures, and a renowned choir organ, it holds a revered status as one of Galway's most esteemed religious landmarks. A cherished destination for both tourists and locals alike, the Galway Cathedral stands as a beacon of faith and inspiration in the vibrant cityscape. In the accompanying image, Gary is captured against the backdrop of this magnificent cathedral, embodying a spirit of reverence and dedication—a fitting reflection of Louis Copeland and Sons' commitment to excellence and heritage.

John Bryne

John's journey with Louis Copeland and Sons began on a significant note, as he stepped into the Wicklow Street store on his birthday in 1998. The catalyst for his entry into the company was a job ad spotted by his sister in the newspaper. With a familial connection to the Copeland family—his grandfather a master tailor and his uncle a fellow Louis Copeland and Sons employee—John's path seemed destined for the world of menswear. Prior to joining, he had honed his retail skills in the sports industry.

Over the course of 25 years, John has amassed a wealth of expertise, particularly in the art of made-to-measure suits. His profound passion for suits is evident, recognizing each made-to-measure creation as possessing its own unique style. Blessed with strong creative instincts, John has the remarkable ability to envision the final garment, collaborating closely with clients to bring their bespoke suit dreams to life. With an unwavering commitment to perfection and an exceptional eye for detail, John expertly guides customers through the intricate process of tailoring their suits, meticulously refining even the smallest of nuances.

Nestled within the vibrant tapestry of Dublin's South William Street, the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre stands as a testament to timeless elegance and historical charm. Once the esteemed Dublin townhouse of Viscount Powerscourt, it has been transformed into a haven for boutique-style shopping. Housed within a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse, the centre exudes a captivating ambiance that beckons visitors to explore its offerings. From fashion boutiques and jewellery stores to homeware shops and art galleries, the centre boasts a diverse array of independent retailers. Renowned for its lively atmosphere and culturally rich events, the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre remains a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike, offering a curated blend of top-quality products and Irish craftsmanship, all within the embrace of its historical splendor.

Cathal O'Brien

Cathal stands as a cornerstone of our team, stationed at our esteemed store on Capel St. His journey with Louis Copeland and Sons commenced during his time at DIT, where he embarked on a work placement that would pave the way for a remarkable 25-year tenure within our organization. Over the years, Cathal has seamlessly integrated himself into the fabric of our company, evolving into an indispensable asset.

Engagement lies at the heart of Cathal's role, as he relishes every opportunity to interact with a diverse spectrum of individuals, from cherished loyal customers to his esteemed colleagues. A beacon of expertise and warmth, Cathal finds immense fulfillment in offering fashion guidance and consultations to men, whether it's for special occasions or everyday attire. His adeptness in sales is matched only by his genuine passion for contributing to the buying process of our store, ensuring a curated selection that meets the discerning tastes of our clientele.

Nestled in the heart of Dublin, the historic Dublin Castle stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage and enduring legacy. Serving as a fortress, royal residence, and administrative center throughout the ages, the castle complex now serves as a hub for ceremonial events, conferences, and exhibitions. Within its hallowed halls resides the esteemed Chester Beatty Library, a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance. The architectural tapestry of Dublin Castle, blending medieval and Georgian styles, captivates visitors from near and far, offering a poignant glimpse into Ireland's storied past. As a popular tourist destination, Dublin Castle invites exploration and discovery, with guided tours offering insights into its profound significance in Irish history—a fitting counterpart to Cathal's own journey of dedication and excellence at Louis Copeland and Sons.