Paul Galvin’s new venture: clothing inspired by… our national anthem

Kerry football star Paul Galvin is clearly a man of many talents – and off the GAA pitch, he's also undeniably forged a reputation as a fashionisto to be reckoned with. 

Now, after months of rumour and speculation, the 35-year-old has released his menswear collaboration with Dunnes.

Delightfully, it's all very Paul: totaling 21 pieces, fans can choose from several modern-man items such as monochrome tees (think Alexander Wang) dropped crotched joggers, hi-top leather trainers and even a khaki-coloured cape. Prices start from €25 and peak at a reasonable €100.

So far so standard.

What is somewhat more surprising, however, is the inspiration behind the designs: namely the lyrics of our national anthem, Amhran na bhFiann.

In fact, the collection itself has been entitled Vanguard. Personally chosen by Paul, it is a word that "aims to capture the spirit of the vanguard warriors, the risk takers, who led military movements from the front". 

"This is not so much a clothing collection as a clothing movement," Mr Galvin states via a just-issued press release. "It represents new thoughts, new language, and hopefully a new direction for menswear in Ireland."

The Amhran na bhFiann lyrics put to good use too, with "sinne fianna fáil," and "faoi mhóid bheith saor" being singled out for inclusion: the English language versions of the lines – "warriors are we," and "sworn to be free" – have been printed on t-shirts and sweatshirts.

And while the collaboration is sure to be a big hit, one woman who is not always impressed by Paul's style is his own Kerry mammy.

Close to a year ago when he appeared opposite Ryan Tubridy on the Late Late Show, he wore a Public School oversized white shirt – a choice of attire he later admitted had failed to impress Mrs Galvin.

Indeed, on his website he revealed that she had even threatened to hide his purchase.

Paul is now happily planning his wedding to radio presenter Louise Duffy; he popped the question in New York in the spring and they've pencilled in a date for "early next year".

Paul Galvin's 21-piece debut menswear collection in collaboration with Dunnes Stores is available to buy online at dunnesstores.com and in selected Dunnes Stores.